Research shows that a majority of physical therapy patients do not comply with their home exercise programs, ultimately slowing their progress. Among the top reasons for not complying include a lack of time and not seeing positive results from their work. To overcome these barriers, try these tips for sticking with your exercise program. 

5 Ways to Do Your Physical Therapy Exercises Every Day

1. Connect Your Exercise to a Goal

Physical therapy exercises are important to healing and pain relief, but without a specific goal in mind, you might not see the purpose behind them. Talk with your physical therapist about why you need to complete the exercises and determine the purpose and goals of your treatment. For instance, you might want to go back to enjoying a favorite hobby or simply play with your grandchildren without pain. Whatever your individual goal, it will help you stay on track with your exercises. 

2. Break Up Your Routine

In most cases, it isn’t necessary to complete your physical therapy exercises all at once. If getting everything done in one session is too time-consuming or uncomfortable, break your routine into a few shorter sessions throughout the day. Knowing you only have to exercise for 10 minutes at a time will help keep you from feeling overwhelmed.

3. Schedule Your Physical Therapy Exercises

Because most physical therapy exercises take less than 30 minutes to complete, you don't need large blocks of time to complete them. Instead, schedule time to get them done around other activities that you do every day. For instance, when you first wake up or when you’re getting ready for bed are both good times to go through the routine. Use an alarm to remind you it’s time for your exercises, or download an app to send reminders and keep track of your progress. 

4. Multitask 

Are you settling in to watch some television? Do your physical therapy exercises while you watch. Are you cooking dinner? Do some leg lifts or shoulder stretches while you wait for the water to boil. Don’t let a lack of time keep you from stretching and strengthening your body since it’s easy to tackle your home exercises while doing other things. 

5. Track Your Progress

Keeping track of the exercises you do and how you feel after you do them can be motivating. A University of Pennsylvania study found that competition—even if it’s with yourself—is the best motivator to remain physically active. When you keep track of your activity, you’ll see your progress more clearly and have more motivation to continue toward your goal. 

If you need compassionate, expert help with pain relief and injury recovery, contact the professionals at O’Fallon Pain Relief Associates. Offering personalized physical therapy, chiropractic care, and pain management programs to residents in the St. Charles, MO, area, they use state-of-the-art diagnostics and treatment methods to help you feel your best and reach your personal goals. To view a full list of their services, visit them online or call (636) 978-3000 to make an appointment.