The Importance of Therapeutic Exercise and Rehabilitation After an Injury

Following a musculoskeletal injury, your orthopedic may recommend physical therapy or therapeutic exercise. For many patients, this stage in the healing process is often overlooked and underappreciated. The goal of injury rehabilitation is to help the patient regain their pre-injury levels of muscular strength, flexibility, and physical well-being.

Damage to the muscles, joints, and nerves are most often effectively treated with physical therapy rather than with medications or surgical intervention. Physical therapy is the most common conservative treatment method prescribed by many physicians. Active therapy can help decrease pain and provide support and strength for the injured body part during the healing process. This program is designed to help one progress back into their original exercise program or sport.

A healthcare professional such as a physical therapist or an athletic trainer will create a program customized to fit your injury needs that will focus on strengthening the surrounding musculature and improving range of motion and flexibility. Prolonged pain and secondary injuries can be solved by attending physical rehabilitation two to three times per week for the recommended duration prescribed by your physician.

Shayla Van Gurp, M.S., ATC