It might seem obvious, but many people do not make a commitment to coming to their appointments regularly or give the effort needed. The greatest success with your recovery happens when you attend your physical therapy appointments and are serious about the process.
Poor Compliance to Treatment Can Have Negative Effects on Outcomes
Compliance has been defined by the National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI) as: “the extent to which a person’s behavior corresponds with agreed recommendations from a healthcare provider”
As described in research review by the (NCBI 2010), the concept of compliance is multi-dimensional and relates to attendance of appointments, following advice, undertaking and correct performance of prescribed exercises, and doing more or less than advised. Many people believe that activities that cause pain must be harmful. The presence of pain does not prevent safe participation of therapeutic exercise and may lead to a reduction in symptoms and improved function. Those who participate in regular exercise are also less likely to experience progressive problems.
Let’s Get Patient and Therapist on the Same Page
Sometimes poor compliance is the result of a therapist and patient not being on the same page. As a patient you might think you do not need physical therapy and are only in the clinic because your doctor told you to try PT. As a therapist, we might have an entirely different perspective. There can be two very different realities. It is our job as a therapist to help you understand how your impairments are contributing to your issues and how therapy can help. We want to design a realistic treatment plan, which is customized to each patient’s circumstances. Appropriate management strategies can help counteract negative effects and improve treatment outcome.
Don’t Let Difficulties Hold You Back from Treatment
We understand there are many reasons that might make it difficult to attend your physical therapy appointments . Depression, anxiety, helplessness, lacking support, increased pain levels during exercise, financial limitations, and transportation needs.
We at Bayview Physical Therapy want to communicate with you. Help us help you. Give us suggestions or strategies that you believe might work for you. More information is always a good thing. You as the patient are part of the treatment process. We will explain everything that we are doing in treatment and why we are doing it.
Know that we do care, and we need you to care as well. We have your best interest in mind, and want to help you commit to being fully on board for your care.
