When to Start Physical Therapy After an Injury: Pain Isn't Always a Barrier

For many, the thought of starting physical therapy after an injury is daunting. However, the reality is that you should begin physical therapy fairly soon after your injury—even if you are still in pain. Good therapists know how to help reduce your pain while building up your strength and helping you to heal.

No, Pain Isn't a Barrier to Starting Physical Therapy

Many individuals hesitate to start physical therapy immediately, convinced they need to be completely pain-free before beginning any form of treatment. This belief is misguided and can delay recovery. A skilled physical therapist can work with you to manage pain while addressing other critical aspects of your recovery, such as restoring function, range of motion, balance, and stability.

PT Can Help With Pain Management and Beyond

Physical therapy offers more than just pain relief. Modalities such as heat, cold, and electrical stimulation can provide significant relief, allowing you to move more easily and begin rehabilitation exercises sooner.

Structural Soundness and Early Function Restoration

The goal is to restore function as soon as the structure is sound enough to support it. It's crucial to start moving and using your injured area to prevent the formation of contractures, which can be challenging to reverse once they occur. Early intervention can prevent long-term complications and expedite your recovery process.

The Importance of Early Intervention and Therapy

It's essential to understand that pain is a component of most injuries and ailments. A comprehensive treatment program should address pain as well as help you regain your range of motion, balance, and stability. If you wait until the pain subsides before seeking treatment, your local clinics might stay patient-free, and their staff wouldn't be able to support their clients.

Gradual Return to Activity

Physical therapists, chiropractors, and athletic trainers are all trained to manage pain and inflammation. They can safely return you to full strength and function through a gradual and progressive approach. Active graduated exercises are designed to target specific muscle and joint issues.

The Value of Early Physical Therapy

I recall my own physical therapy experience, which, although painful at the time, has paid off significantly in the long run. Following my injury, I endured painful treatments, but I viewed them as an investment. The benefits of those treatments have compounded over time, allowing me to return to full activity without limitations. If I had waited until the pain subsided, I might be in a wheelchair today.

Finding the Right Practitioner

To get the most out of your physical therapy, it's essential to find the best practitioner in your area. They can tailor their approach to manage pain, inflammation, and other issues to gradually return you to full strength and function. Formal evaluation and treatment plans help ensure a thorough and effective recovery process.

Conclusion

In summary, there's no need to wait for complete pain relief before starting physical therapy. Early intervention can prevent contractures and other long-term complications, while comprehensive treatment programs allow you to regain your strength and function more quickly. Trust in a skilled physical therapist and start your recovery journey as soon as possible.