It’s up to you..
The journey back to health and independence after injury, fall or illness isn’t always straightforward. Sometimes there are setbacks, sometimes there are other underlying conditions that arise. But one thing is certain. Healing and recovery depend on you – your mindset, your determination and your original state of health are important factors in your recovery.
Your physiotherapist is trained to identify underlying issues, alleviate pain and facilitate recovery. Your physio is the best person to guide you on your journey back to health, but how you continue to care for yourself at home and between appointments will determine your recovery.
How many visits do I need?
Your physio wants nothing more than for you to get back to living your best life, and doing the things you love without being hindered by pain or discomfort. We respect that no two people are the same, and that each individual needs their own treatment plan. Depending on your illness, injury or condition, you may require more or less frequent care than others, or may have a longer timetable. Together, you and your physiotherapist will make the plan that best suits you and your needs.
How can IÂ recover more quickly?
Understanding your condition is the key to empowerment and recovery. Listening to your therapist’s recommendations and asking lots of questions, is the best way to ensure the fastest recovery time. Make sure that while you’re not in the clinic having treatment, you’re following the instructions you’ve given. Write them down if you need to, and prioritise any activities such as stretching or exercises that you’ve been given.
Do I have to do my exercises?
The exercises you have been given are designed especially for you so you can achieve your health and recovery goals. Manual therapy and mobilisation are one important aspect of physiotherapy care. Exercises are just as important and will only help you if you do them as recommended. Strengthening and conditioning exercises will help you recover more quickly and will also help prevent future incidents.
Practice does not make perfect. Perfect practice makes perfect. If you’re not confident about your exercises, please ask. Performing an exercise incorrectly won’t do any good, and may actually aggravate your condition. Your follow up visits are important so that your physio can make sure you’re doing your exercises correctly and that they’re working for you.
I’m not in pain anymore. Can I cancel my appointment?
Do you cancel your dentist appointment, or stop eating healthy food because you feel good? No, you keep them up because you know that no matter how you feel, it’s necessary to maintain good health. The same can be said for your physio appointments. A lack of pain does not mean the absence of problems. Your body is clever at adapting and compensating, and it is common for a problem to reoccur or present in another joint because a patient has reduced care too soon. Your physio is the best person to determine when you can decrease your visits.
Don’t cancel your visit because you’re not feeling pain, keep your appointment so you can maintain your health and improve upon it. Those who continue care and maintain strength and condition, reduce their risk of re-injury and pain.