The road to recovery following surgery or an injury is different for everyone, but in almost all cases, doctors recommend physical therapy. It can have a profound impact on the pace and quality of the recovery, which is why you want to give it everything you’ve got. Below are a few tips for making the most of the experience. 

3 Ways to Maximize Your Physical Therapy Experience

1. Stay Positive

Chronic pain and downtime can put a damper on anyone’s mood. You’ll face plateaus, regressions, and roadblocks, which is why establishing a positive attitude is a must. Set realistic goals for physical therapy and commit to building a relationship with the doctor or therapist. They’re invested in your well-being. As long as you’re willing to dedicate yourself, they will do everything to help you fully recover.

2. Communicate

Communication with your health care team is key. Update the physical therapist about any side effects you’re experiencing, and make sure they’re connected with your primary care physician. Let your surgeon know about discomfort or challenges you’re facing, and ask plenty of questions about at-home care. Physical therapy is personalized, so take full advantage of the opportunity to tailor sessions to your needs.

3. Stick to At-Home Care Plans 

Recovery isn’t exclusive to in-office physical therapy sessions. Often, you’ll need to exercise and stretch at home to keep muscles loose and restore your range of motion. Braces or supports may be needed throughout the day, and you may have to make dietary adjustments to help with inflammation and other side effects. Commit yourself to these goals from the start. They can be the difference between a slow, moderate recovery and a speedy, fully effective one.

Bayside Community Hospital is proud to offer a wide scope of medical care, including physical therapy. Based in Anahuac, TX, this facility has served patients for over 60 years, providing everything from nursing and pharmacy services to diagnostic imaging and emergency medical care. Their facilities also include indoor heated pools for aquatic therapy. You can explore all their health care services on their website, and call (409) 267-3143 today to schedule a health exam.