5 tips on how to make the most of your physiotherapy

For nearly two years, I have been working with Function360 #gifted. Initially, they developed a pre-habilitation program for me to work on imbalances in order to become a faster runner.  Then a few niggles and slight injuries also had me trying out their sports massages, osteopaths, and physiotherapy.  Some people might think physiotherapy is a luxury, but I would argue it is essential for people who are very active.

If you are thinking about signing up for physiotherapy, I thought I would offer my tips on how to get your money’s worth and see great success.

• Come dressed for your appointment– Don’t waste precious time changing in and out of your shorts or t-shirt.  If your time slot is only 30 minutes long, you will get a few more minutes updating your physiotherapist or receiving manual therapy.

• Arrive on time– On a recent leadership training course, it was impressed upon the attendees that arriving on time demonstrates respect for the others involved.  Being late implies that your time is more valuable than others.  Plus, it can have a knock-on effect for the rest of the day or subsequently shortens your appointment.

• Do your homework– If your therapist gives you stretches or exercises to do at home, do them!  Be honest when agreeing on a treatment plan. If your physio wants you to go to the gym for an hour five times a week, let them know that two is all you can squeeze in.  That might change what they want you to do and how often your recovery may take.  Take videos or photos so that you can remember how to perform the exercises correctly.

• Keep a diary of symptoms/workouts– This has been really useful for me with my mystery niggle on my heel.  Pay attention to when the pain or stiffness comes and goes and then write down what you were doing, what time of day, how the pain felt (sharp or dull), and how intense it was on a scale of one to ten.  Having this info can help your physiotherapist put the pieces together if they cannot recreate the problem in your appointments.

• Schedule an appointment when the problem normally occurs (if possible)–  Looking back at the notes in your diary, consider scheduling an appointment when the pain is most likely to occur.  If you are always stiff the morning after a six-a-side game, book in for the first appointment.  If running triggers pain in your knee, run to your appointment or just before.

• Stick to the treatment plan–  If your physiotherapist wants to see you again in two weeks, try not to cancel and re-book for much later.  When booking appointments, the therapist has a long-term plan in their head.  Usually, they will need to see you more often at first and as your condition improves, more time may pass between appointments.  However, if the treatments are too far apart from what they had originally intended, this could delay your recovery.