EFFECTIVE REHABILITATION STARTS IN THE MIND
“Nothing truly stops you. Nothing truly holds you back. For your own will is always within your control. Sickness may challenge your body. But are you merely your body? Lameness may impede your legs. But you are not merely your legs. Your will is bigger than your legs. Your will needn’t be affected by an incident unless you let it.” - Epictetus
If you’re in rehabilitation, you probably had a major surgery, an accident which knocked you out of action for some time, or you’re suffering from overuse injuries. Or you may be trying to get back to active sports from a ligament tear or other serious injury. The most important thing about rehab is that it takes time, patience and commitment. Rehabilitation is no magic bullet. When your body is injured, it takes time to heal. Physiotherapy is a keystone of rehab for some very good reasons. One is that physiotherapists provide an interface between the patient and the doctor. For many reasons, physicians often cannot take time for an extensive discussion of the patient’s condition. The physiotherapist, however, takes time to completely assess flexibility, the presence of painful spots and tight soft tissues, balance and coordination at various joints. Once this is over, your physiotherapist will be able to prescribe the right balance of exercise and healthy lifestyle to relieve pain, enhance flexibility, and restore normal function. However, this is optimized when your mind is confident and cooperative. This is really where it all starts. Resistance to a therapy, limits its effectiveness. If you have already written off your recovery, your body gets the message. Nothing but terrific determination on the part of your physiotherapist can produce even a little improvement in such cases. So, the first step in successful rehabilitation is to assure yourself of great results. YOUR ATTITUDE MATTERS! You are the one going to work with the physiotherapist. You cannot be passive or expect something to be
done for you. It’s your willingness to work hard and consistently that will determine your recovery. Look one step beyond. Read success stories. Reassure yourself that this pain will result in your good health. See yourself walking, taking care of yourself, enjoying life. Hold this picture before your mind to make lighter work of your rehabilitation. Make sure you know how much progress you should expect at a minimum -- and see yourself well beyond that! Ask your friends and family to support you. When you feel anxious, talk it over with someone. They can identify unrealistic fears -- a real lifesaver. This kind of support also helps when pain and low motivation put you off. At such times, it’s marvelous to have someone nudge you through with some wisdom and practical strategies to get moving when you don’t want to! Your physiotherapist can also help you with stress-relief and relaxation techniques. Less stress means greater ease during therapy and fosters the healing power of your body. As it becomes a habit, you’ll see its benefits in every area of your life! So, upgrade your thinking. While unrealistic thinking is no virtue, positive attitude is a wonderful asset which can take you forward on your journey. Harness the power of your mind and get well faster!
25 Eclipse Drive, P. O. Box 10742 George Town, Grand Cayman, KY1-1007
Phone : (345) 943-8700 Fax : (345) 943-8701
www.thephysiotherapycenter.com
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