Physical therapy (PT) can be very beneficial for you, however, what you get from it depends on what you put in. Commitment to your program is critical to reaping the benefits of the therapy, which include pain relief, improved balance and mobility, greater flexibility, and better athletic performance.
If you are seeing a physical therapist or have been prescribed to see one by your doctor, here are some tips for improving your experience with PT.
Tip #1 Communicate Openly With Your Physical Therapist
Communication is key in any relationship – especially between a patient and a physical therapist. Be sure to express all relevant information about how you feel, your pain levels, limitations, and other concerns before each session, so they can better tailor their treatment plan. Also, be honest about how much PT you do at home. It’s okay to say you dropped the ball on doing your regimen. On a similar note, always be honest about how much pain or difficulty you experience when performing various exercises and stretches. This way, your physical therapist can adjust along the way, so your regimen is most beneficial to you.
Tip #2 Take Notes During PT Sessions
Taking notes during your sessions makes it easier for you to follow your program at home and not forget instructions given by your physical therapist. It also makes it easier for you to keep track of your progress and be consistent with your sessions, which leads to better results over time.
Tip #3 Set Realistic Goals
Work with your therapist to set achievable goals. These goals should be realistic, and the timeline should be reasonable. Examples of realistic goals include improved posture, better hand function, less knee pain, and greater endurance or stamina. Expecting a cure from arthritis or immediate results following surgery are examples of unrealistic goals. Additionally, do not hesitate to celebrate small victories along the way to keep yourself motivated.
Tip #4 Be Consistent With Your Exercises
It’s essential to be consistent with your exercises outside of PT sessions at the clinic. Follow your physical therapist’s instructions and make sure to complete your exercises regularly to prevent regression and promote a faster recovery process.
Tip #5 Ask Questions
Don’t be afraid to ask questions about your condition, treatment plan, or exercises. Your physical therapist is here to help you, and they want to make sure you are well informed about and comfortable with your treatment program.
Tip #6 Take Care of Your Body
It’s important to take care of your body outside of therapy, as well. This includes getting enough sleep, staying hydrated, and eating a healthy diet – all of which can support your body’s healing and rehabilitation. For example, your body needs essential nutrients, such as lean protein in the form of chicken or fish for the building and repair of tissues in the body. By taking care of your overall health outside of physical therapy exercises, you can help support your progress.
Physical Therapy in Austin, TX
Endeavor Physical Therapy offers comprehensive physical therapy services for our patients to help restore their function and mobility and get them back to their fun and active lifestyles. Our physical therapy treatment programs include exercises, as well as sessions with pain specialists to help alleviate your pain further.
We not only see chronic pain patients and those with injuries, but also individuals who are about to undergo surgery for pre-op therapy to decrease recovery time, as well as post-operative patients.
To schedule a consultation with one of our highly skilled physical therapists, call our office today at (512)-886-7110 or use our convenient online request form. Endeavor Physical Therapy has convenient locations serving Austin, Round Rock, Manor, Pflugerville, Cedar Park, Bee Cave, Hutto, San Marcos, and Kyle.
