Physical therapy is most successful when a patient completes a combination of clinical work with their physical therapist and any prescribed at-home exercises on their own time. Getting into the habit of daily practice helps patients nurture and strengthen their areas of concern so that they can achieve long-term results and lower their risk of future injury.
During times such as the current COVID-19 pandemic, at-home physical therapy exercises become even more important. Physical Therapists are medical professionals and thus listed as essential personnel. This means that your physical therapy provider is following proper safety protocols so that you can still visit their office for treatment. However, if it is more difficult to get out, or you are concerned to make your appointment in-person, your PT may be able to help you come up with an at-home program that is right for you. They may also be offering video sessions so that you get the benefit of having them there to guide you through exercises while remaining in the comfort of your own home.
Stick With Your Recommended Exercises
No matter if you are maintaining your clinical visits or not, it is important to stick with the recommended exercises that have been prescribed by your physical therapist. Doing your exercises at home will help you strengthen any areas of injury or continue to improve upon anything you have been working on with your PT.
When you begin your physical therapy program, your provider may give you a manual or links to exercise-related content that you should do at home throughout the therapy process. These home exercises are designed to complement the treatment program that your physical therapist recommends.
Follow The Home Exercise Program Recommended By Your PT
There are many home exercise programs available for free, but that does not mean they are best suited for your individual needs. Particularly if you are recovering from an injury, it is very important to stick to the exercise program that has been designed for you. If you are looking for more, be sure to connect with your physical therapist. Perhaps they can create an additional home exercise program that would go beyond basic rehabilitation. Or perhaps regular video check-ins would help.
Find out what your physical therapist recommends for you. Need help? Contact the Total Motion Physical Therapy team today.