Frequently Asked Questions

What is the goal of physical therapy for my condition?

The goal of physical therapy is to improve physical function, reduce pain, and help restore mobility and strength. This may include correcting posture, rehabilitating an injury, restoring balance, and preventing relapse.

What happens during a physical therapy session?

Assessing the patient's condition: In the first part of the session, the physiotherapist may assess the patient's progress, discussing current symptoms, any difficulties encountered, or improvements observed. This may include physical tests to check mobility, muscle strength, and coordination.

Therapeutic exercises: The physical therapist will guide the patient through a series of exercises that help improve mobility, strength, balance, or stability. These may include specific movements for certain joints, muscle stretching, posture exercises, or functional training.

Manual therapy techniques: The physical therapist may apply massage or manipulation techniques to relax tense muscles, reduce pain, and improve blood circulation.

Discussions and recommendations: The physical therapist can provide advice on lifestyle, proper posture, self-help techniques, and relapse prevention.

Learning self-control: At the end of the session, the patient can learn how to continue certain exercises at home to support their recovery process.

Each physiotherapy session is tailored to the patient's specific needs, and the program may vary depending on the type of condition or the goals set.

Does physiotherapy hurt?

If I ask you to do something that may cause too much pain, let me know! Physical therapy is not supposed to be very painful. It is not common for it to be so painful that patients suffer or affect their daily lives. If this ever happens during or after an appointment, it is important to let the therapist know and we will adjust your schedule together.

Should I bring any x-rays, investigations, MRIs with me?

Yes, it is recommended that the patient present all relevant investigations and documents at the first home physiotherapy session. These may include:

Results of blood tests, X-rays, MRI, CT – to provide the therapist with clear information about the patient's health status and to help with the correct diagnosis.

Medical report – which may include the diagnosis, the specialist's recommendations, and any other information relevant to recovery.

Medical history – any previous conditions or surgeries that could influence the treatment plan.

Current medication – information about the medications the patient is taking, to avoid interactions or adjust exercises according to these treatments.

Presenting these investigations helps the therapist better understand the patient's condition and create a personalized treatment plan that takes into account any limitations or necessary precautions. At the same time, it ensures a safer and more effective approach to the recovery process.

If the patient does not have all of these documents, it is recommended that they discuss their medical history with the therapist to ensure that the treatment will be appropriately adapted.

What techniques or exercises will I do during physiotherapy sessions?

Techniques may vary depending on the patient's needs, but may include strengthening exercises, stretching, joint mobilization, therapeutic massage, relaxation techniques, and treatments with electrotherapy devices or thermotherapy.

How long will the treatment take?

The duration of treatment depends on the severity of the condition and your recovery goals. Typically, sessions 2-3 times a week may be recommended, and the total duration can vary from a few weeks to a few months.

How often do I need to come to physiotherapy sessions?

The frequency of sessions depends on your individual needs. In the early stages of recovery, you may need more frequent sessions, but as you progress, the frequency can be reduced.

Are there any exercises I should do at home?

Yes, most patients will be given a set of exercises to do at home to support recovery. These are important to maintain the progress made during therapy sessions.

What can I do to speed up the recovery process?

To speed up recovery, it is important to follow the treatment plan, do the exercises correctly and consistently at home, have a balanced diet, get adequate rest, and avoid overexerting the affected area.

Is it normal to feel pain during or after physical therapy sessions? You may feel some mild pain or discomfort after exercises, but it should not be severe. Severe or persistent pain should be reported to your therapist for adjustment of your treatment plan.

How can I prevent relapses or worsening of long-term problems? Preventing relapses may include maintaining a regular program of strengthening exercises, improving posture, using correct techniques in daily activities, and avoiding overuse of the affected area.

What are the signs that the treatment is working?

Signs that the treatment is working may include a reduction in pain, improved mobility, increased muscle strength, a greater range of motion, and better performance in daily activities.

How will I know when I have reached full recovery?

Full recovery may mean that you have restored normal function to the affected area. Your physical therapist will assess your progress based on physical tests and your symptoms. Full recovery may take longer for some conditions and less for others.

Do I need to change anything in my lifestyle or daily habits to support recovery?

Yes, lifestyle improvements can support recovery. This may include maintaining a healthy weight, improving posture, avoiding positions or movements that may aggravate the condition, and adopting active but balanced lifestyle habits.

What risks are there during physical therapy?

The risks are usually minimal, but they may include temporary worsening of pain or minor injury from incorrect exercises. It is important to follow your therapist's instructions and not attempt exercises that are more difficult than recommended.

What are the treatment options if I don't feel any improvement after a certain period of time?

If you do not feel any improvement, your physical therapist may adjust your treatment plan. In some cases, other interventions may be necessary, such as additional counseling, modification of exercises, or, in rare cases, further consultation with a specialist (e.g., orthopedic doctor).

Are there any dietary or other changes that could support recovery?

A balanced diet rich in essential nutrients for bone and tissue health (calcium, vitamin D, protein, omega-3s) can support recovery. Proper hydration and avoiding foods that cause inflammation can also be beneficial.

What type of equipment or accessories should I use at home for recovery exercises?

Depending on the type of condition, you may need equipment such as resistance bands, exercise balls, weights, or stretching devices. Your physical therapist will provide personalized recommendations based on your needs.

These answers are indicative, and discussion with the physiotherapist can provide more precise information and recommendations, tailored to the individual needs of each patient.