7 Ways to Benefit from Physical Therapy
Physical therapists work with patients who have medical problems or conditions that limit the ability to move and/or perform typical daily activities. Patients who need physical therapy may include those recovering from an injury, a stroke or surgery, or who are dealing with arthritis or another condition that limits movement.
The therapists at St. Mary's Center for Rehabilitation are a close-knit group. Many of the eight staff members have worked together for more than a decade, notes Brad Miller, Supervisor of Outpatient Physical Therapy and physical therapist. "We know each other well, and this helps us create a warm, caring environment for patients," he says.
Treatment plans can help patients gain strength, increase mobility, reduce pain and prevent further or recurring disability. If you have been referred to a physical therapist for treatment, these seven tips can help you get the most from your sessions:
1 Set goals.
2 Be patient.
Mr. Miller says that patients sometimes become discouraged when they don't see improvement right away or reach a plateau. "Remember that certain conditions took years to develop, and it takes time to get to where you want to be," he says.3 Come to appointments on time and ready to work.
4 Understand your homework and commit to it.
Make sure you get a complete, understandable list of exercises to do at home. It can be difficult to remember everything you do at the physical therapist's office. And be sure to do the exercises -- this is critical to your progress and to achieving your goals.5 Communicate with your therapist.
Each patient is different, so the same exercises won't always achieve the same results. There is usually more than one way to achieve a desired result. If an exercise doesn't seem effective or it's hard to do at home, you feel unmotivated, or feel pain when doing the exercise, tell your therapist. This can help the therapist understand how to adjust your treatment and help you achieve your short- or long-term goals.6 Educate yourself about your condition and treatment.
If you don't understand your condition or why you've been prescribed an exercise, ask your physical therapist for an explanation. When you understand how each exercise will help you reach your goals, you may be more motivated to stick to them.7 Allow family members or other loved ones to help.
Those who are closest to you often are good cheerleaders. If you have an off day or simply don't feel like doing your exercises, let those around you help get your motivation back. Tell them how you're feeling and what they can do to help.
