Rehabilitation: points for patients to consider during the rehabilitation process.

In the second of our series of posts on rehabilitation we take a look at some of the most common factors that influence our patients' recovery.

It is human nature to look for quick fixes during the healing process. With so much conflicting information on the Internet relating to rehabilitation, it is a physiotherapist's role to provide clear, accurate and honest guidance - something we touched on in our last blog.

In this article we want to pick out the challenges that face injured individuals - not to demotivate but simply to contextualise the frustrations that patients can face during the recovery process.

Neuromuscular challenges of injury rehabilitation

The neuromuscular system can be affected by age, psychological state, previous activity levels, current physical state and deconditioning (the relative decline in physical fitness due to the body's adaptation to a less demanding environment). Neuromuscular deconditioning occurs much faster than conditioning. Simply put, your body loses physical fitness at a quicker rate than it takes to gain it.

Another important factor in rehab is the issue of neural connections, which cannot simply be 'disconnected'. The body takes years to establish a certain pattern of moving, so getting used to unaccustomed new movements and/or structured exercise essential for recovering from an injury can take some time.

Often, patients believe that recovery works on a one to one ratio e.g. 3 weeks being out injured can be counteracted or reversed by 3 weeks of active recovery. Sadly, this is simply not the case - and under most circumstances the recovery process takes longer.

The role of pain and discomfort in injury rehabilitation

It is normal to feel some pain and discomfort when exercising during your recovery. Be aware that it will consistently feel as if the effort you put into your rehabilitation is disproportionate to the outcome you want to achieve.

Further, the human body often tends to find the most comfortable position for you to move and/or rest in. At TG Physiotherapy Care we always advise patients to be mindful of this and to be aware that the most comfortable position may not necessarily be the best position to ensure a swift recovery.

Current evidence suggests that in some instances, there may be a lack of connection between pain and physiology. To put it another way: sometimes pain will persist regardless of normal healing processes and tangible improvement signs.

Rehabilitation can be a long and arduous process that tests the resilience and patience of any individual. But there is a freedom that comes with the knowledge and awareness of your own body's healing ability. It is important to trust in the knowledge that your body will heal with the right input at the right time, and that you have the confidence to manage each milestone of your journey to recovery.

Finally, always remember that the physiotherapist's role does not stop at the treatment table. If you have concerns about your rehab, share them with us and allow us to help you through both the physiological and psychological process.

If you have any questions about your rehabilitation programme, call us on 07866464385 or by email at tripti@triptigyan.com.