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Writer's pictureDave Heaney

Physical Therapy Clinic Design | Creating a Positive and Profitable Rehabilitation Space

In today’s healthcare arena, patients have countless options and offerings to choose from in the physical therapy space. While recovery remains the primary focus, a positive experience that makes patients return and continue their health journey is key. When you provide occupational therapy, sports-related injury rehabilitation, or any variety of physical therapy treatment, you will want to evoke a positive first impression and a lasting relationship between patient and provider.


Design Your Space


It should come as no surprise that interior design will play a crucial role in the success of any physical therapy facility. Besides, how can these types of specialty providers expect to rehabilitate their clients without the necessary equipment? A clinic’s most significant cost will be its staff. This means that providing them with the tools they need to be efficient in their work will ensure profitability. Treatment tables, storage cabinetry, a variety of seating options, and proper flooring all play a part within a physical therapy office and are imperative for staff and patients to achieve their goals.


Furniture, finishes, and overall functionality play a powerful role in attracting and retaining clients. While interior design can differ between facilities depending on their specialty, physical therapy spaces all aim to provide rejuvenation and restoration of balance. The proper use of this will help trigger positive feelings, aid in patient healing, and lend a hand in overall clinic profitability.


Lighting


Perhaps no other medium is as influential on our bodies and minds as much as light is. Research shows that natural light deprivation can play a detrimental role in negative health and well-being. This means that physical therapy facilities should allow for as much natural light as possible. Sufficient exposure to natural light supports healthy bodily functions, reduces stress, and boosts mood. All of which promote motivation and a sense of rejuvenation for patients. While artificial light is necessary, it is important that it not impede upon provided care. Avoid overbearing brightness and spaces that are too dim.


Colors, Graphics, and Patterns


How does color affect us? A great deal of research has found that both psychological and physiological changes occur when humans are exposed to certain colors. They can excite and stimulate, calm and tranquilize, directly influencing moods, emotions, sleep patterns, and even appetite. When choosing colors, graphics, and patterns for a physical therapy clinic, it is crucial to take into consideration how they will impact patients and their rehabilitation. Bright, high-energy colors like red and orange can be used in the workout room to excite and keep spirits high, while cool blues, greens, and other tranquil earth tones can calm and comfort in a massage room. This same mindfulness should flow through into graphic and pattern selection. Research has shown that people prefer natural-colored wood grains over non-grain surfaces. They also feel more comfortable with wood in comparison to more sterile options like chrome or glass. You will want to connect patients to the outdoors and natural elements through windows, plans, and natural patterns.


Functionality


Everything we’ve talked about up to this point means nothing if your physical therapy space lacks functionality. Your facility should flow seamlessly based on the specialized treatment services that are being offered. Upon their first visit, a patient will discover if the space is easy to navigate, smoothly transitions between furniture and equipment, and has the proper amount of space and elements needed to make their medical care and overall experience beneficial.


A great deal of planning needs to go into mapping out a clinic’s design, however, understanding the purpose and targeted clientele will aid in appropriately seeking furniture placement and strategizing architectural elements. Physical therapy clinics bear the responsibility of providing a healing hand to everyone who walks through their doors. Through the implementation of perceptive design elements, facilities of all specialties can reap positive patient feedback and increased profitability. Whether you are incorporating a subtle paint splash in soothing shades, bridging patients’ connection to nature through finishes and artwork, or offering ergonomic autonomy through seating solutions, even the slightest design enhancement can evoke a positive first impression and turn a visitor into an established patient. After all, a healthy patient is a happy patient.

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