Physical Therapy is Done - Now What?

Injuries and surgeries can take a lot out of us. That's why Physical Therapy is so important to follow dilligently - to repair and retrain your normal mobility and range of motion. Once the in-facility PT is done, many find themselves asking the question... now what should I do?

Once formal Physical Therapy is completed, typically there's a list of exercises or stretches that are recommended to do at home in order to continue the healing and strengthening process. Many do not complete these at-home exercises, resulting in frustrations due to a lack of progress.

An important first step is to have a helper around in order to ensure your personal safety after returning home. Depending on the severity of the injury or procedure, your mobility and balance may be very compromised. Whether you are having family help out or are utilizing an in-home assisted living service like ACC Adult Home Care, be sure to immediately inform them of the recommended exercises and show them the documentation from the Physical Therapist that details the method and frequency of exercise. 

Having a helper can not only motivate you to keep at it, but it also allows another set of eyes to ensure that you're doing things properly. A caregiver can help ensure proper posture and balance during the exercises, as well as help count the repetitions and make certain that the frequency of exercises is in line with the recommendations from your Physical Therapist. Just like medication reminders, exercise reminders help promote consistency in sticking with your program. 

Post-surgery/injury can be a stressful and vulnerable time, so don't go it alone. If family can't devote the time to ensuring around-the-clock monitoring and assistance, give us a call to see how we can help!