5 Ways to Succeed in Physical Therapy and Occupational Therapy

5 Ways to Succeed in Physical or Occupational Therapy

January 26, 2022 7:30 am by Rebecca Pudvah PT, DPT, CSCS, OCSLeave a Comment

Your time is exceedingly valuable. When you are hurt, injured, or sick, you do not want to be sidelined for longer than necessary. Here at Athletico Physical Therapy, we are here to coach you to a better you. Check out the list below on how to make the most out of your physical therapy visits. This list can help you get strong, happy, and healthy during your time in physical therapy.

1. Be honest.

Tell your clinician what is bothering you, how it affects your everyday life, and how your symptoms have changed over time. The more open you are about your condition, the more your therapist can help you.

2. Anticipate an active recovery during your course of care.

Physical or Occupational therapy can have both active and passive components, as well as “homework.” Together you and your clinician will establish a comprehensive and individualized plan to resolve your symptoms as timely as possible.

3. Understand the process.

Unlike a light switch, physical or occupational therapy can take time to show results. Both strengthening and flexibility work can take weeks for the body to adapt. Expect to participate in physical or occupational therapy 2-3x/week for four to six weeks, or as your clinician prescribes.

4. Have a goal.

Are you looking to run a marathon, or are you simply looking to be able to get out of a chair with less fatigue? Reflect on your mobility status and set realistic goals for yourself that you and your provider can work towards. Remember, you can always set new and more challenging goals as you go.

5. Have fun.

Nobody enjoys pain, injury, or the inability to participate in the activities they enjoy. However, knowing you are taking the right steps to get back to your normal routine does not have to be monotonous. Enjoy the adventure; the greatest views always come from the hardest climbs!

Start Physical or Occupational Therapy Today

Healthcare should not have to be complicated. It is easy to be overwhelmed by the need to see your primary care physician, follow up with a specialist, undergo imaging, and then ultimately be referred to physical and occupational therapy. Often this results in unnecessary visits, time off from work, and time away from family. Instead, Athletico can help get your foot in the door on day one. Reach out to your local Athletico clinic to set up a Free Assessment. This appointment is not only free of cost but also can help preserve your free time. Call now and get healthy faster!

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The Athletico blog is an educational resource written by Athletico employees. Athletico bloggers are licensed professionals who abide by the code of ethics outlined by their respective professional associations. The content published in blog posts represents the opinion of the individual author based on their expertise and experience. The content provided in this blog is for informational purposes only, does not constitute medical advice and should not be relied on for making personal health decisions.

About the Author:
Rebecca Pudvah is a triathlete and physical therapist who loves helping others achieve their fitness goals. Rebecca graduated from Simmons College in Boston, MA, with a Doctorate in Physical Therapy. She is an Orthopedic Clinical Specialist through the American Board of Physical Therapy and a Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist through the National Strength and Conditioning Association. For her undergraduate studies, she attended the University of Massachusetts at Amherst with a Bachelor's degree in Kinesiology while competing in Division 1 Cross Country and Track and Field. Rebecca loves sharing her knowledge and personal experiences to help those in need through challenging and painful times. She is passionate about guiding her patients toward a healthy, active, and pain-free human experience.