Making your physical therapy count

Physical therapists know how to improve your posture, muscle dysfunction, or reduce pain. However, to achieve the desired results, patients have to be fully involved. Here are the steps needed to improve the physical therapy experience and achieve the desired results more efficiently.

Identifying the problem

Before physical therapy begins, the therapist will evaluate the patient’s current condition. At this juncture, the patient’s input is crucial. You need to explain all your symptoms, including the pain you’re subject to, when you feel it, and how intense it is. Answering in detail is beneficial for the PT, as a physical evaluation only reveals limited information.

Consistency is the key

Physical therapy can provide significant results after a few sessions, but many patients stop coming the moment they feel better. In most cases, the pain will return after a few weeks or months. Therefore, they have to restart their therapy. This is why it’s advisable to schedule your sessions and be consistent. It would help if you decided on the frequency of your treatment. The patient may choose to start slowly before changing the timetable. In agreement with your PT, you can make adjustments every week.

The results may not be evident after only a few sessions, especially in the case of dysfunction or chronic pain. However, persistence will provide the desired results.

Constant communication

While the therapist learns about the patient during the evaluation process, your further input is still desirable. At any moment during the session, you can express how you feel. If the pain is unbearable, don’t be afraid to inform the therapist. They can then adjust the exercises accordingly. Also, always ask questions. It will help you further understand how therapy works and how it will improve your body. When you know the process better, you will feel motivated to continue.

Working out at home

A physical therapist will encourage you to exercise at home in-between visits. Working out at home will complement your therapy and improve your results quickly. When doing home exercises, it’s crucial to start slowly and gradually work toward more, to prevent injuries. If you feel any pain, stop, and consult with your PT at your next session. Everyone is different, so adjustments may be needed to achieve better results.

Planning a diet

If you are overweight, your PT will recommend a diet. By eating healthy, the patient will accelerate their recovery. It is vital to finish your meal at least an hour before your next therapy session.

Heal your body efficiently

Improving your physical condition takes time, but with commitment and patience, the results will come. By providing valuable input to a therapist, you will achieve the improvement that will have a lasting effect on your overall health.

If you are looking for occupational or physical therapy, vestibular rehab, wheelchair training, learning to walk, unweighting aquatic therapy, or other services in the Phoenix area, please call Touchstone Rehabilitation at 602-277-1073.