You’re Not Broken: Why Your Physical Therapy Should Match Your Goals

Dealing with a persistent injury can feel like hitting a brick wall repeatedly. You're eager to get back to your active lifestyle, but perhaps you've encountered roadblocks along the way. It's essential to recognize that not all healthcare providers are the perfect fit for everyone, especially if you're someone who thrives on performance-oriented goals. Before jumping into drastic measures like surgery, it's crucial to assess whether your rehabilitation process aligns with your aspirations and needs.

Here are some common scenarios to consider:

1. Dismissal of Goals: Have you ever felt like your ambitions were brushed aside during therapy sessions? Maybe you were advised against running due to knee issues or lifting because of back pain. It's disheartening when your goals are overlooked or deemed unrealistic.

2. Mismatched Therapy: Did your physical therapy sessions feel disconnected from your desired activities? Perhaps you found yourself doing generic exercises that didn't prepare you adequately for the demands of your preferred training regimen. Feeling like you're not progressing towards your fitness goals can be immensely frustrating.

3. Unhelpful Diagnoses: Have you received discouraging diagnoses that hinder your return to activities you love? Statements like "bending and twisting will cause a slipped disc" or "running will worsen your knee arthritis" can instill fear and limit your willingness to engage in enjoyable pursuits.

4. Focus on Pain Relief: Instead of focusing on improving function, have you found your therapy centered solely on pain management? While pain relief is important, it shouldn't be the sole objective. Effective rehabilitation should empower you to regain functionality and return to your desired level of activity.

5. Lack of Progression: Are you stuck doing the same exercises for months without any tangible progress? Repeating monotonous routines without meaningful advancement can dampen your motivation and prolong your recovery process unnecessarily.

It's time to reassess your approach to rehabilitation.

Your physical therapy should mirror the activities you're eager to return to. Here's why:

- Relevance: Whether you're rehabilitating a running injury, a lifting-related back problem, or a rotational sports injury, your therapy should directly address the movements and skills specific to your activity.

- Progression: Rehabilitation isn't about staying stagnant; it's about continuous improvement. Your therapy plan should incorporate progressive exercises and challenges tailored to your goals, gradually reintroducing you to your desired activities.

- Empowerment: Don't settle for a one-size-fits-all approach. Advocate for a rehabilitation plan that aligns with your aspirations and respects your capabilities. You deserve a personalized approach that empowers you to reclaim your active lifestyle.

Remember, you're not broken. With the right guidance and approach, you can overcome setbacks and achieve your fitness goals. Don't settle for less than a rehabilitation plan that honors your aspirations and supports your journey towards optimal performance.