Many patients who are eager to begin treatment want to know if there are any exercises or stretches they can do at home before their physical therapy starts. Eagerness to being therapy is awesome, but you should be careful not to push yourself too far before consulting with a physical therapist. Jumping into exercises on your own could be dangerous and cause further injury. In this article, we are going to offer a few tips for exercising and stretching safely at home while you wait for your first physical therapy appointment.
At Home before Your First Physical Therapy Appointment
Whether you’re recovering from surgery, dealing with an injury, or suffering from a debilitating condition, being stuck at home during recovery can make you feel restless. Consulting with a physical therapist is essential to effectively reduce your pain and increase range-of-motion. Each patient’s situation is different, and each patient needs specialized treatment. That being said, you should be fine doing some very basic stretches at home while you wait for physical therapy (basic arm or leg stretches, for example).
Remember to take it easy and don’t push yourself to do any exercises or stretches that hurt before you see your physical therapist – who will recommend rehabilitation techniques that will guide you toward your goals.
Direct Access to Physical Therapy in Minnesota
Minnesota patients are lucky in that they have direct access to physical therapy in the state. Direct access means that you do not need to wait for a physician prescription for physical therapy. You can make an appointment with a physical therapist in your area and continue receiving physical therapy for up to 90 days without a prescription. With direct access you shouldn’t have to wait long for your first physical therapy appointment!
OrthoRehab Specialists consists of some of the best physical therapists in the Twin Cities. Our rehabilitation specialists have over twenty-five years of experience treating patients with shoulder, knee, spine, neck, and other issues. Contact our physical therapy clinics in Minneapolis or Edina today to set up your appointment and see how physical therapy can help you!
PT of Costa Rican National Soccer Team for 2007 World Cup in Victoria, CAN. Clinical Instructor for University of Minnesota Doctor of Physical Therapy Affiliations
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