Now that spring has sprung, temperatures have risen and the transition from heating our homes to cooling our homes is right around the corner. It’s likely that when firing up the AC unit for the first time each spring, you cross your fingers that the equipment still works. If not, you might be calling an expert for a tune-up, or in extreme circumstances, for a complete overhaul.
Just like an AC system that has been dormant for many months of the year, a body that hasn’t been physically engaged on a regular basis may have trouble getting started again. At this time of year, the temperate climate draws many people to city and suburban streets, tracks and trails, making strides towards working off sedentary habits adopted through the winter. A good percentage of these spring exercisers haven’t kept up their fitness activities regularly. It should come as no surprise, then that the first several bouts of exercise for a previously inactive person are going to stir up a few aches and pains. Especially as we age, our ability to move undergoes changes. But whether we’re talking about a college student or a retiree, returning to an activity without proper planning is a potential recipe for disaster. That’s where physical therapy comes in. Physical therapists are trained to treat injuries and ease pain, but they can also help patients prevent injuries and safely prepare to participate in new activities.
Think of physical therapists as “movement consultants” who can ensure that your body is physically ready to tackle a new challenge—or resume a favorite leisure activity. If you’ve found yourself inactive for a while, now is a good time for your PT to step in and help you to shake off the metaphorical rust and dust in your joints. Your therapist can customize an exercise plan to help you to gradually return to sport and to avoid injury that could sideline you. Or, like cleaning the filters before firing up your air conditioner for the first time this year, the rehab expert can help to tune up the body to ensure that you are prepared to return to your former activity level following a hiatus.
Here are 3 ways to help your physical therapist help you to maximize your rehab efficiency:
- Know what you’re aiming for. Having a clear idea of your goal or goals will ensure that you can communicate exactly what you’re looking to achieve. Jot down some ideas for the future as well as goals you’ve attained in the past to provide a framework for goal setting.
- Listen to your limitations—and to your PT. Your body’s reactions and your physical therapist’s expertise enable the identification of injuries in the making as well as weaknesses and limitations that are impeding your function. Understanding how you can work with your body and your therapist to effectively accomplish your goals will enable efficient progress.
- Be prepared to take things one step at a time. Your PT will work with you to establish an appropriate timeline to achieving your goals. For example, it’s unlikely that you’ll be ready to keep up with your best friend and avid runner at the town 5K the weekend following your initial therapy visit. However, perhaps your PT can help to modify your approach so that you can still participate, even if you aren’t ready to run the entire distance.
These three steps will help your PT design a customized exercise program that suits all of your needs and gets you back to increased physical function quickly —and safely. Our goal is to see you to be successful on your life’s movement journey!