Growing up I spent a lot of time in physical therapy. That is especially common for those who have cerebral palsy. I can’t recall any fond memories, mostly because of how bored I was. Maybe physical therapy wasn’t for me. When I was younger, I only saw kids that looked like me doing similar exercises. I used to think physical therapy was only for people with disabilities. When I realized there was no end-game to my therapy, my perspective changed. Why go weekly and fatigue my body when it’s not going to “heal” my legs? Everyone that I see is only here for weeks, maybe months and they leave in better physical condition. Is PT really important for adults with disabilities? I think so. Here’s why:
1. PT gives you a reason to get out of bed.
One of the hardest things about living with a disability is getting out of bed. Many external and internal barriers exist i.e. pain, weather conditions, transportation, time or motivation. (More on this at a later post). I have found that scheduling appointments first thing in the morning gives you to have a reason to get out of bed.
2. PT is a judgment-free space
Having a disability can be isolating and make you feel like you’re being judged by the outside world if you use a wheelchair, crutches, cane, etc. I can’t speak on acquired disabilities, but I imagine it’s similar, too. Regardless if you have a disability or not, everyone is there for the same reason, to work on their bodies in some way. The silver lining is PT provides commonality with others. Of course, you get the occasional PT who might judge you for doing the exercises incorrectly, but hey, they are human too.
3. PT helps you set goals
I’ll post in more detail about this next time. If you go to PT long enough, you will eventually achieve something by setting realistic expectations in therapy. The unique thing about that is, it’s personalized. It will never be one size fits all. It can also translate to setting up life and/or professional goals. Once you achieve a goal and realize it’s attainable, you are more likely to convince yourself that it will also work outside the PT walls.
I’m totally anticipating the number of people in physical therapy to increase after this post. Just don’t go in with the expectation below.
Until next time!
