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Simple Tips to Get the Most Out of Your Physical Therapy Sessions

29 August 2022 by Joann Dunn

If you've suffered an injury or have been dealing with a chronic condition, physical therapy might be the solution you need. It can be a highly effective form of treatment, but only if you make sure you get the most out of your sessions.

Here are a few simple tips to help you do just that and recover more quickly. 

Follow Your Physical Therapist's Instructions

This may seem like a no-brainer, but it's important to follow your physical therapist's instructions to the letter. That means showing up to your appointments on time and doing the exercises or stretches they've assigned to you.

For example, if you have a knee injury, your therapist may give you exercises to do at home to help strengthen the muscles around it. Your therapist may suggest that you begin with simple exercises like walking or light jogging and then gradually increase the intensity as your knee gets stronger. They could also recommend that you use an ice pack for a few minutes after you do these exercises.

You shouldn't try to do too much too soon, though. In addition, avoid rushing through your exercises or stretches just to get them over with. Take the time to do them correctly and focus on your form. Pushing yourself too hard or doing exercises incorrectly can actually make your injury worse or set back your recovery.

Doing such targeted exercises consistently will help you recover more quickly. The muscles around the injured area will become stronger, which can help support the area and make the recovery process go more smoothly.

But if you don't do your part, you won't see the results you're hoping for. So make sure you're following your therapist's instructions and putting in the work outside of your appointments.

Keep Track of Your Progress

Keeping track of your progress will help you and your therapist see how well the treatment works and whether you're on track to reach your goals.

There are a few different ways you can do this. You could keep a journal and write down how you're feeling before and after each physical therapy session, as well as any changes you notice in your daily life.

If you're working on improving your range of motion, you could use a ruler or measuring tape to track how much farther you can stretch each week. And if you're trying to increase your strength, you could keep track of how much weight you can lift or how many repetitions you can do.

Sharing this information with your therapist will give them a better idea of what's working and what isn't so they can adjust the treatment plan accordingly. It will also help motivate you to keep up with your therapy since you'll be able to see the progress you're making.

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