3 Things You Should Always Discuss With Your Physiotherapist
A physiotherapist or physical therapist may work with a patient after an injury or surgery or because of a chronic condition, such as arthritis or lower back pain. When you've been recommended to see a physiotherapist, they will go through a number of questions with you in order to determine the best course of treatment. In each session they may also ask other questions to determine the effectiveness of the treatment and if you're progressing as you should. However, you might want to be proactive in discussing some topics with your physiotherapist, even if they don't ask; note a few of those topics here and why they're so important.
1. If You're in Pain
Some discomfort and even pain can be expected during physiotherapy, as a therapist is often manipulating joints and other areas that are damaged and which are in the process of healing. This can then increase circulation so that the area heals faster. You may notice less pain overall with your physiotherapy treatments, but be sure to discuss the topic of pain with your therapist. If you feel the treatment itself is too painful or you're not experiencing any relief from your chronic pain, he or she may need to make adjustments to their treatment or your therapy.
2. If You Think You've Reinjured the Same Spot
It can be embarrassing to tell your therapist that you tried to walk without support and injured the knee on which you just had surgery, or helped a friend to move while you were undergoing therapy for lower back pain. However, your therapist needs to know if you've done any damage to the area being treated because they may need to adjust their treatment methods. They may need to retest your range of motion and give you another physical exam to look for bruising and swelling. In any case, always be honest with your therapist about anything that affects the area being treated.
3. If You Notice Improvement
Your therapist may notice a greater range of motion and more mobility when you come in for your sessions, but he or she should know if you notice improvement after you leave their office. This can tell them if their methods are effective and you're ready for a change in treatment to speed healing or if you can try exercise, going without your brace, and the like. You may know to tell your therapist of problems, but telling them of improvements is also a good idea when going through physiotherapy.
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