Protect Your Joints Outside Physical Therapy

Physical therapy is a great tool that many people use to recover from injuries and to work on their movement techniques. For many people, physical therapy can become useful with age and life changes.

If you have recently started going to physical therapy, you might wonder how you can keep your joints in great shape even outside of physical therapy appointments. These tips will help you keep your joints in good condition.

Move Your Joints Regularly

First, it is important that you are moving your joints each day. As soon as you wake up, you might move your joints through their entire range of motion, helping you avoid stiffness. Do this slowly so that you can avoid injury and pain throughout the day.

If Something Hurts, Stop

While it is important that you use your joints regularly, it is important that you don't hurt yourself. Don't try to extend yourself too far, and definitely don't put yourself in any position that makes you feel stress in your joints. Doing so could cause an injury or worsen the injury for which you are currently going to physical therapy.

Improve Your Posture

Your sitting and standing posture can really influence the way your joints feel at the end of each day. Posture is one of the most difficult things to work on because we are often putting ourselves in a new position our body does not like. For instance, you might have to sit at a desk all day, which can be very bad for your back. Consider working at a standing desk and always focus on your core and your shoulders when you stand and sit.

Get Exercise

Regular exercise is crucial for keeping your joints healthy. Strengthen the muscles around your joints so that your joints are protected and have the support they need to back them up. Strong muscles also allow you to use your joints more effectively and safely.

Don't Miss Physical Therapy Appointments

Finally, make sure that you do not miss those physical therapy appointments. They are designed to keep you strong and to continue building your abilities. Missing or skipping even one appointment can set you back significantly.

You have a lot on your plate, especially if you are already contending with an injury. Don't let your joints be the element that prevents you from living your best life and growing stronger. You have a lot of options for staying healthy and happy, so keep up the hard work.


Share