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Physical Therapy vs Personal Training vs Massage

Although they have some overlap, physical therapy, personal training, and massage therapy address different issues with unique goals. See the chart below for a quick comparison to find out which service is more appropriate for your goals. If you're still not sure, reach out!

You need PT:

  • Injury

  • Prevent re-injury

  • Post-operative recovery 

  • Prepare for upcoming surgery (i.e., prehab)

  • Acute/subacute/chronic pain

  • Functional ability/mobility goal (i.e., return to the gym/exercise, hike without ankle pain)

  • Joint range of motion deficits 

You need personal training:

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  • Prevent re-injury

  • Exercise program design

  • Strength & conditioning

  • Flexibility & mobility

  • Improve balance

  • Health education 

You need massage:

  • Chronic pain

  • Stress management

  • Relaxation

  • Muscle soreness/tightness

  • Scar tissue management

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