Maintaining Your Physical Therapy Gains
- December 2, 2020
As we trot through the holiday season we are slowly approaching the peak time of the year. Many of us are planning on taking a break from our busy lives and visiting our loved ones to destress and create great memories. Our minds check out of their busy schedule and take a break unfortunately, we can not say the same about our bodies. Our body’s functions are working 24/7 to ensure that we are capable of enjoying the fond moments to come. Like muscle gains, the gains you have acquired after doing your PT sessions need to be maintained in order to prevent a recurrence of the symptoms that brought you to the clinic in the first place.
The choice is yours
When it comes to decision making we are given the opportunity to choose for ourselves which is great! But sometimes we don’t choose wisely. When it comes to your health and physical capacity generally nothing should come before it. Physical therapists always encourage their patient to perform the exercises and stretches they teach. The importance of this is the consistent activation of the musculature that is necessary for the betterment of your condition. Of course some of these exercises may not be pleasant and for those who are left to decide if they perform them in their free time or just wait until their next appointment can be a tough decision. If you do choose to only do the stretches and exercises strictly in the presence of your PT you will potentially see less overall value and not feel as good physically which will also affect you mentally by decreasing your motivation.
Focus on forming healthy habits
Like any other exercise routine, habit building is paramount for your overall success. PTs will likely suggest a fitness regimen to keep you consistent. It is suggested to write down your newly acquired regimen on your daily calendar and set goals throughout the week. The more you treat your PT exercises as a traditional work out plan, the quicker your good habits will form and the quicker your body will recover.
When you don’t feel motivated…
In some cases individuals may feel very unmotivated and deem it impossible to do the exercises at home. Although this is not common, if you or a loved one finds themselves in this situation the best option is to make more appointments with your PT. Some people need a support system and guidance to do something. When they see their weekly schedule and notice they have appointments throughout the week they will be encouraged to go, considering it like a personal training session with a trainer who will provide you with an increased quality of life.
