If you struggle with everyday tasks due to mobility issues or have recently experienced a stroke or physical injury, outpatient therapy may be the right course of treatment for you. Appointment-based care can assist you in achieving a better quality of life and help you get back to managing your own daily tasks with little to no assistance. Here are answers to some of the most common questions about outpatient care services. 

What You Should Know About Outpatient Therapy

What is it and How Does it Work?

Outpatient therapy is a type of rehabilitation therapy done in sessions. While inpatient therapy is done during a stay at a hospital or rehabilitation center, outpatient services are by appointment and require you to travel to a care center or other facility where doctors will treat you. Your doctor may refer you to an outpatient specialist after a stroke, injury, serious illness, or age-related loss of mobility or speech. 

What Types of Therapy are Offered?

Many varieties of rehabilitation or therapy are offered on an outpatient basis. The most common outpatient services are occupational therapy, physical therapy, and speech therapy. Depending on your unique needs, you may need one, two, or a combination of all of these services. Each type of treatment will help you better manage daily tasks, such as getting dressed, making food, or communicating with others. 

How Often and For How Long? 

How often you visit your therapist or care team, and how long each visit will last, is dependent on your specific needs, goals, and the jurisdiction of your primary care doctor or specialists. You and your care team should regularly discuss your therapeutic goals and how far along you are with those goals to decide how frequently you should schedule therapy sessions. 

Is Outpatient Care Right for You? 

Outpatient care may be right for you if you experience only mild to moderate discomfort or difficulty with your daily tasks. If you can still dress, bathe, eat, take medication, and get around without too many problems, you should speak to your primary care physician about the benefits of outpatient therapy services. If you are experiencing more significant issues, you may be referred to an inpatient program.

If you or a loved one needs assisted living or outpatient therapy services, turn to WyndRidge Health & Rehabilitation Center in Crossville, TN. Their compassionate staff treats their patients like family, and they focus on individualized, patient-centered care. They also provide inpatient services, therapy, and rehabilitation for all age ranges to ensure that your loved ones are thoroughly treated. Call (931) 707-5687 or visit their website to learn more about their services and staff today.