No doubt, physical therapy is a life-changing discipline, and PTs are the catalysts. However, the success of your recovery is a byproduct of consistent and collaborative effort: for your PT to enact such a tremendous change in your life, you need to be willing to put in the work.

Consider these simple tips to reap the greatest benefits of your physical therapy program.

Tip #1 Show Up for All of Your Appointments—with Enthusiasm.

Attend all your appointments and follow all of your therapist’s instructions. While it may be tempting to slack off during your sessions, especially when you’re in pain, keep in mind that your PT has given you those instructions with your best interests and full recovery in mind.

Tip #2 Be Patient.

As the famous saying goes, “Rome wasn’t built in a day, but they were laying bricks every hour.” The same thing holds true for your PT program.

Reaching your goal— which is to recover fully and return to your normal activities— takes time. Don’t make a mistake of rushing your rehab. Instead, stick with the plan, keep putting in the work, and maintain a positive attitude. Over time, these will pay dividends: you will gradually experience a significant improvement in not only your symptoms but your overall functional capacity as well.

Your therapist is essentially your accountability partner, who will come alongside to encourage, motivate, help you cultivate self-discipline, and keep you focused on your goals.

Tip #3 Do Your At-Home Exercises Diligently.

Many people show up for their appointments only to report that they’re not seeing results as quickly as they’d hoped to see. Don’t fall into this trap.

At-home exercises are just as important as those you do in the facility, so follow through on whatever your therapist assigns. Dedicate a specific time and place in your home to do your exercises, and do them as instructed.

Tip #4 Openly Communicate with Your Therapist.

If you feel a treatment or exercise is helping you, tell your therapist. Be specific about why you believe it helps you. Conversely, if something is too difficult or increases symptoms, such as pain, report that, and include pertinent details as to timing and severity of your symptoms.

Tip #5 Ask for Progress Reports.

Your program is built upon measurable deficits and improvements. Ask your therapist about your achievements and what the expected recovery time is.

Avoid general questions, such as “When will I feel better?” Instead, ask “When can I expect to see the swelling in my knee to subside?” or “When will I be able to walk my dog or drive my car?” Targeted questions will give you more specific answers and help set proper expectations,

Physical Therapy Services in Johnson City, Kingsport, and Bristol TN

At Watauga Orthopaedics, our team includes licensed physical therapists who have been a part of countless testimonials of people who have broken free from the limitations imposed by their musculoskeletal problems and are now leading fully functional lives. They can help you write your success story as well.

Book your appointment today! Contact our staff at (423) 282-9011. We’re eager to serve you at one of our three locations: in Johnson City, Kingsport, or Bristol.