WHY YOU NEED TO DO HOME EXERCISES FOR PHYSICAL THERAPY

People may turn to physical therapy for a variety of reasons; they may have been injured in a specific event, might be recovering from surgery, or could be experiencing consistent pain. Whatever the reason, the goal of physical therapy is to help patients’ feel better. In addition to the work they do with their physical therapist in the office or clinic, patients must also often perform at-home exercises on their own to facilitate their recovery. The combination of clinical work and exercises at home is the best way to promote a speedy and healthy transition back to normal life.

For home exercises to be effective, however, it means that patients must stay disciplined about doing them. Home exercise compliance is a non-negotiable, but some patients don’t prioritize it due to busy schedules or lack of familiarity with the exercises themselves. Staying consistent with home exercises as a part of recovery can make all the difference in the effectiveness of physical therapy. It can be challenging but staying on top of at-home physical therapy exercises is an essential component of a patient’s recovery.

GET BETTER RESULTS AT PHYSICAL THERAPY SESSIONS

Performing at-home physical therapy exercises can change the trajectory of a patient’s recovery after an injury or surgery. These foundational exercises can help improve both muscle memory and familiarity with the action. Doing physical exercises at home not only strengthens the body, but it also helps train the mind to be ready for new exercises as they come about. This leads to more effective physical therapy sessions and overall improved progress.

HELPS RELIEVE PAIN AND REGAIN FUNCTION FASTER

Home exercises help patients get more out of their physical therapy treatment sessions. Having a solid understanding of how the body is meant to move is both physically and mentally beneficial. Patients who regularly perform at-home physical therapy exercises may see progress when it comes to alleviating pain, increasing mobility, and regaining function.

HOME EXERCISE PROGRAMS MAY INSPIRE AN ACTIVE LIFESTYLE

Patients who are sedentary or not as active prior to home exercise may experience the positive first-hand effects of exercise, leading them to want to pursue a healthier lifestyle even after physical therapy. Home exercises can show patients how convenient and easy it is to incorporate these movements into their daily lives, inspiring them to continue on their road to health even after their prescribed course of care.

HOME EXERCISE AFTER DISCHARGE CAN PREVENT RECURRENCE OF CONDITION

Some patients experience a recurrence of a condition after physical therapy because they do not keep up with at-home exercises. Maintaining a regular home exercise program can prevent pain from resurfacing or conditions from coming back.

HOME EXERCISES CAN BUILD GOOD HABITS

Performing home exercises can teach patients to build good habits of regular exercise as part of a healthy daily routine.

While home exercises may feel unfamiliar and uncomfortable in the beginning, the patients who trust and stick with their physical therapists will see long-term success and results. These foundational exercises are key components for determining the success of your physical therapy. Home exercise compliance is a necessity for a patient’s health and wellbeing. If you are looking for a physical therapist, Excel Physical Therapy is here to help! Contact us today to find out more about the physical therapy services we offer.