By Emma Sturgis
You’ve been injured, are experiencing joint pain, or have a chronic condition. Your physician recommends physical therapy to get you back on track. It’s natural to wonder what to expect and how to make the most of this treatment. Here are some guidelines that will make your therapy experience a fruitful one.
It’s All About Attitude
Whatever the reason for needing physical therapy, your treatment will be more successful and you’ll see results sooner if you are in the right frame of mind. Whether your goal is to return to the soccer field, walk without knee pain, or manage symptoms of a chronic disorder, getting and staying motivated is the key to success.
Communication Is Vital
When you and your therapist first meet, he or she will conduct a physical examination and ask questions about your medical history and injury or condition. At this session, you will talk about your goals and expectations. Throughout treatment, feel free to ask questions, let the therapist know if any exercises are painful, and keep him or her informed about any changes (positive or negative) in your condition. Effective physical therapy is a partnership in which the lines of communication are always open.
Dress for Success
You wouldn’t wear formal attire on a family trip to the zoo. Similarly, proper apparel is important for physical therapy sessions. Be sure to wear comfortable, roomy clothing that allows access to the affected area and proper shoes. If you’re in doubt as to how you should dress, ask your therapist.
Work, Work, Work
The best physical therapist in the world can’t restore you to optimum condition if you don’t do your part. Even if the going gets tough, and exercises are uncomfortable or seem pointless, it’s vital for your recovery to give it your all. However, if any part of the treatment is quite painful, be sure to tell the therapist. He or she can determine if the discomfort is to be expected or if the painful exercise should be modified or put on hold.
Do Your Homework
Your therapist will give you exercises to perform at home or in your hospital room. Be disciplined and diligent about keeping up this regimen. The harder you work, the sooner you will be at your physical best. As with all aspects of treatment, ask any questions that arise about pain or difficulty in doing a certain exercise. Be sure to maintain the routine after your therapy has ended; it’s a sure way to keep yourself physically healthy and avoid re-injury or relapse.
By following these guidelines, you can be sure that physical therapy will be a rewarding experience which will help you on your way to healing and physical improvement.
Informational Credit to Town Center Orthopaedic Associates
Comments are closed.