Encompass Health Savannah shares about physical therapy with WTOC-11
Oct. 23, 2025 – Physical therapy is a key component to the multidisciplinary rehabilitation approach at Encompass Health Rehabilitation Hospital of Savannah. With October as Physical Therapy Awareness Month, Susan Parys, director of therapy operations and licensed physical therapist at Encompass Health Savannah, spoke with WTOC-11 about the benefits of physical therapy and how to know when physical therapy may be needed.
“Some of the signs you may find at home are a decline in your ability to stand from your chair or your favorite couch or difficulty getting out of your car,” said Parys. “Or, when you first stand up, you start to lose your balance. We often find that’s how, unfortunately, patients injure themselves or break a bone.”
Parys recommends consulting your physician as physical therapy may be beneficial if you notice changes with walking or common household chores.
“Our goal as physical therapists and physical therapy assistants is to do hands-on training to get patients to regain function,” said Parys. “We also equip them for their discharge needs for life.”
In the interview with WTOC-11, Erin Moore, physical therapist with Encompass Health Savannah, also debunked a few myths surrounding physical therapy. Moore reminds the community that physical therapists are not the same as fitness and exercise instructors.
“We are skilled medical professionals who have doctorate level degrees,” said Moore. “We are certified by a national board.”
To hear the myths and see simple at-home exercises that strengthen muscles and aid in improving balance, watch the full interview with WTOC-11.