Physical therapy is one of the best ways for seniors to heal from an injury. Through a custom treatment plan, specialists help individuals relieve pain, build strength, and improve mobility. To get the most benefits from treatment, clients should have a full understanding of what to expect from their sessions. If you or a loved one are starting rehabilitation, ask your physical therapist the following questions before treatment.  

What to Ask Before Physical Therapy

1. What Is Your Experience?

Make sure the provider is a licensed professional, so your care follows standard guidelines. Find out what types of conditions the therapist has specialized in. For instance, stroke survivors should work with an occupational therapist instead of someone who specializes in sports injuries.

2. How Am I Injured?

You may already have a diagnosis, but it’s worth asking the therapist how they interpret the problem. These specialists are approaching the injury from a different angle than your doctor. They could offer new insight to give you a better grasp of how your muscles, joints, and bones have been affected.

3. What Will My Treatment Plan Involve?

Rehabilitation programs are not one-size-fits-all. Ask the physical therapist to review the entire treatment process they’ve developed for you. Start by exploring what to expect from the initial sessions. Then find out how progress will be measured. Although expectations may change, it’s useful to know an estimate of how long you’ll be in treatment.  

4. How Do I Enhance My Recovery?

While therapy sessions are a major factor in recovery, the exercises you do outside of the clinic also make an impact on healing. As you start your sessions, review stretches, corrective exercises, and preventive measures at home to speed up recovery.

5. How Do I Prevent Future Injury?

Your physical therapist will give you tips on how to minimize stress to your body and prevent future damage. For example, they may recommend using a mobility aid, installing safety grips, or hiring a caregiver.

After a serious injury, recovery may feel impossible. But with the help of the physical therapy specialists at Atmore Nursing Center in Alabama, you or your loved one will find the support and resources you need to develop a path to healing. Specializing in senior care, these physical therapists address everything from fall injuries to stroke rehabilitation. Learn more about these services online or by calling (251) 368-9121 to speak with a nursing home representative.