Are you starting your physiotherapy sessions soon because you recently got an injury or your healthcare expert recommended the service? One of the main things you may be curious about is the number of times you will need to see your therapist. Well, knowing the exact number of sessions you require is difficult. This is because the answer is determined by a number of factors and will vary from one person to another. Even knowledgeable and experienced physiotherapists can only give you a rough estimation after conducting a detailed examination.
Taking time to familiarise yourself with physiotherapy helps you know what to expect. This post is designed to help answer some of the primary questions you may have, so keep reading to know more.
How physiotherapy works
Examination
The first thing each physiotherapist does is conduct an initial assessment. While the assessment process may vary depending on your condition, the expert focuses on your feelings and your goals before reviewing your medical notes, medical history and tests (CT scans, X-rays, MRIs, etc.). Next, an objective assessment is done to check on your functional movements, strength, sensation, reflexes and endurance. The information the expert gathers helps them create a customised treatment plan that will help you meet your objectives.
Treatment
Treatment usually starts when you attend the second session and will go on until your objectives are attained. Although treatment varies widely, it may include the following: primary education regarding your injury and any changes you need to make; acupuncture; therapeutic workouts that are done at the clinic and at home; neurological rehab; physical therapy (joint mobilisation, massage and stretching); pelvic floor therapy; injury prevention and so on. Some sessions will be long, while others will be short, so do not be surprised when this happens.
How many sessions will you need?
The answer to this query depends on the diagnosis, how severe or chronic your condition is, your previous medical history and how you respond to treatment. For some people, the first few sessions will do the trick, while for others, it may take several months.
You need to follow the instructions your physiotherapist offers, especially when it comes to the exercises you will be doing at home. If you don't, you'll interfere with the healing process, and more sessions will be needed. Remember, physiotherapy is meant to help your body heal itself, so even if two people have the same health problem, the healing process will vary, and so will the sessions. Talk to physiotherapy service providers to learn more.
Your health won't look after itself. If you want to live a long and active life, it is important that you understand the services and treatments which are on offer at your local health care clinic. Now, I'm not a health professional but I do have a passion for everything related to personal well-being and health. I've dedicated my time to carefully researching everything you might want to know about local healthcare such as health care costs, healthcare in the workplace, disease prevention, exercise, where you can get a good night's sleep, body awareness, chronic conditions and how to get the right treatment and diagnosis. Read on to find out more!