Exercise as often as possible, because energy begets energy.Proper exercise is finding a good physical therapist. In order to have the best physical therapy ask your doctor who they would recommend and have your doctor prescribe a physical therapy prescription for what they feel is best for your condition.It is very important to do your exercises as requested by your physical therapist in between sessions. The key is not to over due physical therapy.When you feel you have overworked yourself, back off and don’t feel guilty.Guilt is a big factor in living with chronic pain. It is important to know your limitations and learn not to feel guilty when you ask for help.
Physical Therapy, Massage and Aqua Therapy
Other than good nutrition and exercise adequate physical therapy is necessary.Many doctors don’t write prescriptions for physical therapy, so ask for it! It will change your outcome from serious problems with scar tissue scarring down, causing pain and nerve problems. For those that have trouble using weights or strengthening exercises, aqua therapy is a great way for strengthening! Aqua therapy increases muscle resistance while in the water.Always remember to not over do it because of set backs, set backs can be worse than the beginning of your physical therapy program. Go at a pace that works for you. You are not in competition with anyone, especially yourself.You must set reasonable goals with your doctor and physical therapist.
Many physical therapists use massage, including Myofascial massage in their treatment.It is also beneficial to get simple body massage for relaxing the body, mind and spirit that can include aromatherapy.Heaven on Earth, Henry’s and Bony’s are great places that have people trained to help you find what might work best for your body.
If you have conflict with your doctor or physical therapist, it is important to have honest feedback with them.If you feel you are not being listened to or understood, then ask someone you trust for a recommendation and change to a different doctor or physical therapist. You know how you feel, they don’t. You know your pain tolerance, they don’t. It is important to use pain medication prior to physicaltherapy in order to control the pain during a physical therapy session; especially if you are right out of surgery or it is your first session.
