I’m Done with Physical Therapy – Now What?

Completing physical therapy marks a significant milestone in your journey toward recovery, but many people find themselves asking, “Now what?” Whether you’ve regained strength after surgery, improved mobility after an injury, or achieved better balance, maintaining the progress made in PT is vital to long term health and mobility.

Do These When You’re Done with Physical Therapy

1. Keep Up with Your Home Exercise Program – The exercises and stretches your therapist prescribed are crucial for preventing strength regression and maintaining your mobility. If you’re unsure about which exercises to continue or prioritize, don’t hesitate to contact your physical therapist for clarification.

2. Incorporate Movement into Your Daily Routine – Staying active is key to long-term health. Find ways to incorporate movement into your daily routine, whether that’s walking, swimming, yoga, or cycling.

3. Focus on Ergonomics and Posture – Good posture and proper body mechanic reduce risk of future injuries. Consider making ergonomic adjustments to your workspace, home, and exercise routines.

4. Set New Goals for Your Health – Use your PT progress as a foundation for new fitness goals. This is also a great time to engage in new fitness challenges or try something you’ve never done before. Try things like a hiking trip or taking a dance class.

5. Consider Long-Term Wellness Support – Periodic follow-up appointments with a physical therapist may be helpful. These sessions can ensure you’re still on track with your goals, help you make adjustments to your exercise routine, and provide additional guidance on injury prevention.

6. Celebrate Your Achievements – Completing physical therapy is a huge accomplishment! Take a moment to celebrate your progress. Remember, PT isn’t just about recovery from an injury or surgery, it’s also about improving your quality of life and giving you the tools to stay active and healthy.

Finishing PT is just the beginning of your health journey. Staying committed to your well-being ensures that the work you’ve done in physical therapy will continue to serve you for years to come.