If you're sure that the lack of progress is the only problem, you can suggest that your patient reschedule for later. This suggestion is often enough to send a clear message that their success depends on their commitment to therapy. Gaining knowledge is the first step to solving physical therapy problems and ensuring progress and ultimate success. However, such knowledge is useless if it is not accompanied by the adoption of appropriate measures.
If you have been faithfully completing your exercise duties and your range of motion hasn't changed after a few appointments, it's time to talk to your physical therapist. If you're not making progress, it might be time to get a second opinion. Any physical therapist who deserves your time will answer any questions you may have, so don't hesitate to ask. Improving any area that needs help will only make the necessary physical recovery easier to achieve. Many times, significant or noticeable improvements can occur in the first two sessions, while in other cases, a dozen treatments may be needed.
Feeling pain and having limited physical capabilities is a horrible experience that no one should have to go through. During the visit, the physical therapist should ask you to demonstrate the exercises you've been doing at home. If you focus only on challenges and difficulties, it's all too easy for you to become discouraged and completely stop physical therapy; it's simply too overwhelming and ultimately futile. Seeing a physical therapist regularly if you have musculoskeletal problems can save you time and money, and can help prevent the development of chronic diseases, future injuries, and even the need to undergo some surgeries. Knowledge is power, and when you better understand what pain means, you'll be better able to make progress with physical therapy and subsequent rehabilitation.
Another useful tool to look for is the use of exercise programs based on videos that you can follow and that are monitored and updated as you progress. At this point, the domains are no longer functioning uniformly or in harmony, and this can cause physical stress on the body, which can negatively affect recovery from injuries and overall physical well-being. Therefore, the following applies to any type of injury, condition or dysfunction, but you will need to individualize any other action or measure you take to adapt it to your needs and general condition (ask a physical therapist to help you in this regard, if necessary). Patients are less likely to follow the treatment plan if there is no atmosphere of mutual respect in the relationship. If your physical therapist isn't willing to take the time to tell you about what's going on, find another therapist.
Therefore, if you keep reading, you will learn how gaining specific knowledge and acting accordingly by taking specific measures can be of great help to those who are not making much progress with physical therapy and rehabilitation. Consider the possibility that doctors and physical therapists often see patients' problems very differently. It's important to remember that physical therapy is a process that requires patience and dedication. You must be willing to put in the effort required for success. It's also important to stay positive throughout your treatment plan; focus on what has improved rather than what hasn't changed yet.
Finally, don't forget that communication between patient and therapist is key; if something isn't working for you or if something doesn't feel right during an exercise session, let your therapist know.
