You should go through physical therapy with your primary care provider when recovering from an injury. Physical therapy is designed with each patient in mind and is typically different for each patient. The goal is to improve your ability to move and manage pain. However, sometimes it may take time, and it seems you’re not improving.
Many patients are left wondering how long before they begin to see the results of physical therapy.
Unfortunately, while this question may appear simple, the answer is more complicated. Join me as we explore how physical therapy helps patients get back on their feet and enjoy life.
What is Physical Therapy?
Physical therapy is a form of rehabilitative health that uses various techniques to reduce pain and stiffness. Physical therapy also aids in improving strength, motion, and flexibility. Because the treatment method is designed to help people of all ages and conditions, every patient has a unique program to help their specific condition. Your physical therapist will monitor your progress and offer advice and suggestions on what to do after a physical therapy session.
Although in most recovery processes, some pain is to be expected, and if you continue to experience pain more than two days after a therapy session, you need to inform your therapist. Describe in detail your pain and what triggers it. Ignoring this pain can lead to a longer recovery time or further injury.
When to Expect Results
Because each program is tailored to each individual’s needs, results will vary. Minor, there should be some improvement and pain reduction after every appointment. Soft tissue injuries can take six to eight weeks to heal.
Unfortunately, many patients may not notice improvements right away. If you’re not progressing, inform your therapist about your concerts. If there is no noticeable improvement, perhaps the treatment program needs to be adjusted or reworked.
Do Your Homework
To make a full recovery, go to your physical therapy appointments. Many patients only visit their physical therapists twice during the week. This means a physical therapist will often give you exercise and stretches to do while you’re at home. The success of your recovery depends on how committed you are to the homework exercises.
Although adding a 10 to 20-minute exercise routine may sound simple, many patients find it difficult to do these workouts as frequently your body is already in pain. Stretching and strengthening these areas of the body can be challenging. If you’re progressing through your program satisfactorily, don’t feel like you need to increase the amount of exercise you do at home. This can lead to regression. Before deciding to do more, ask your therapist if it’s a good idea to increase the number of repetitions you should perform.
Physical therapy is meant to help you recover to your fullest. This takes time and patients. In the end, you’ll be rewarded with pain management, strength, mobility, and flexibility.
Take the Next Step In Improving Your Health by Contacting SOHMA Integrative Medicine
Our goal is to help you improve your health. You can reach out to us and ask about the Myers Cocktail, IV Therapy, Chiropractic care, or how our other health service lines can help you with your journey to improved health.
Located in Long Beach, CA, we help individuals from the surrounding cities.
We look forward to helping you take the next step in your journey to better health.
