Starting an Exercise Rehab Program
Physical therapy and exercise rehabilitation, known as physiotherapy, are an area of medicine that seeks to improve and restore the quality of life and functional capability to those with physical disabilities or injuries. It may involve the use of non-surgical treatments such as medications, splints, braces or other passive therapies. The goal of physical therapy and exercise rehabilitation is to help the patient live a healthy, active lifestyle by providing training in the management of movement and strength. As people get older they become less capable of performing normal activities on their own and require the assistance of an expert to increase their capacity for caring for themselves.
Exercise rehabilitation is based on the principle that mechanical devices, such as chairs and walking aids, can be used to build strength and improve muscle tone. This approach is different from conventional medicine in that it does not focus on treating the physical condition of the patient but on improving the function of the body so that it can perform daily tasks independently. Physical therapists are often involved in this field of health care, as are physicians and nurses. Treatment may include exercise instruction, structural support and devices to help the patient move around more easily. It may also include exercise programs, personalized instruction and therapeutic exercise.
A physical therapist will design a program of exercises for a patient and will often recommend certain modifications or equipment if necessary. These programs are designed to challenge the muscles, tendons and ligaments of the body so that they are stronger and more resistant to injury. They also help the patient to learn how to do exercises safely at home so that they do not end up hurting themselves in the process. Most physical therapists also participate in rehabilitation programs that target certain parts of the body.
In order for physical therapy and rehabilitation to be effective, it is important for the patient to be able to move around and do physical work. This helps the therapist and the rehab center work together in determining the best course of action. This can involve exercise, weight training, stretching or any other type of exercise that is recommended by the patient’s doctor. It is also important for the patient to be motivated to exercise. If a person is not motivated, the exercise will be less than effective.
During the rehabilitation process, the patient may be prescribed medications to help him through the process. Rehabilitation drugs may be in pill form or may be in the form of an injection. Some medications are used only during rehabilitation, while others are used continually until the patient is released from the hospital. Many patients also take hormones and steroids in addition to the rehabilitation medications to help boost their immune system and reduce inflammation.
The goals of exercise rehabilitation are many, including increasing muscle strength, increasing stamina, increasing bone density and range of motion and preventing further injuries. It can take some time for a patient to be able to move around and do simple exercises. However, he or she will be moving around soon enough that progress can be seen. It may take several months before you begin to see improvement, but in time you should see improvement. You should consult your doctor before beginning any exercise rehabilitation program to ensure it is the right one for you.
