How to Make the Most of Your Physical Therapy

If you've ever been injured to the point where you need physical therapy, you probably know that the actual visit to the physical therapist is only part of the recovery process. Much of what you need is in your head and heart, and not in the doctor's office. With that in mind, injuries that require physical therapy are best treated in four ways-by paying attention to your physical therapist, by paying attention to your body, by communicating with your physical therapist openly about the injury and by keeping track of your progress (or lack thereof).

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Health insurance
• Physical therapist (your health plan can recommend one)
• Pen and notebook or journal
• Calendar
• Specific device the physical therapist instructs you to use

1. Know that after your injury, a doctor will tell you if you need physical therapy or not. If you do, make an appointment as soon as possible to start on the road to recovery. The faster you attack the problem area, the more quickly it will heal.

2. Start keeping a journal of your progress and any highs and lows. Mark on your calendar the date and times of any issues that arise and be sure to bring those issues up with your physical therapist during your next visit. The more openly you communicate with each other, the more the therapist will be able to address and potentially solve any problems.

3. Be sure to follow the directions if your physical therapist gives you any sort of exercise or training device and do the required exercises diligently. There is no need to spend money on physical therapy if you aren't willing to do the work necessary outside of the doctor's office.

4. Keep a positive outlook as it will do wonders for your recovery process. Physical therapy is one part physical work and two parts mental and emotional. If you believe you can recover, you will. But you still need to do the exercises and steps recommended by your doctor in addition to keeping a positive attitude. One does not work without the other.

5. Keep in mind that if, after following their advice and doing the exercises for several weeks, you find that you are not getting the results you desire from your physical therapy, don't be afraid to ask to try another therapist and try a new approach.

Tips & Warnings

• Do not do anything that causes you further pain! If you are doing anything that hurts, or if your physical therapist is moving your body in any way that causes pain, stop immediately and let them know.
• Do not overexert yourself prematurely. Follow the doctor's advice and their timing.

Resources

• American Physical Therapy Association

[woot]

on 3/5/2009 Good tips!