TLDR: The goal is to not have to do the “basic” PT exercises forever, but to continue to progress them so you are able to do stronger, functional, and more exciting movements to keep you stronger.
When I give my clients exercises for their injury and/or pain, one of the questions that I get is “will I have to do this forever?”. It is an understandable question because sometimes exercises that we “have” to do can seem and feel very tedious. Throw in the fact that PT exercises can be somewhat “simple” and “boring” initially, and I get it, that’s not something you want to have to do forever!
The human body is an interesting thing. We have to keep it mobile, strong, and flexible to keep it functioning properly. And we also don’t want too much or too little of any of those things. And sometimes, those are the things that end up hurting too, so then we need to take a break or modify. So the goal with your PT exercises is to find the right combination of movements to get you to your optimal function. You won’t necessarily have to do the first set of exercises that you get at PT forever, but you will have to do the best movements for your body!
The type of exercises that will be necessary to do too, also depends on the type of injury and pain that you have! Some people will have a set of basic exercises that will be beneficial to do in addition to their typical and harder workout routine too - but it will be worked into that routine, it isn’t the only thing that you will be doing! Sometimes people have to do the basic exercises for longer and some people progress quicker than others. So how long you will have to do specific exercises will depend on you, your body, your injury, your pain, and your response to the exercises. And one of the biggest factors is, actually doing the exercises when and how your physical therapist says. It can be hard to work them into your routine, especially when they aren’t initially super exciting, but doing them correctly and at the right frequency will help you to progress to more exciting exercises!
So the answer is both yes and no! You will get to do some type of movement and exercise “forever” because that’s what our bodies need to be healthy, and the goal is for that movement and exercise to be things that you enjoy, and not just basic exercises that you start off physical therapy with. It will be a progression!
Your physical therapist will help you with this progression of exercises over time and will help you to find the right exercises and movements that are best for you, your life, and your goals!
If you have questions and/or need help with finding the right exercises for you, email me today at livewithoutlimitspt@gmail.com and follow us on Instagram (click below!) for more information!
Thanks for being here!
Dr. Katie
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