Physiotherapy can help restore movement after an illness or injury. If you’ve been referred to a physiotherapist in Leeds, you might be wondering how often you should attend. The answer depends on various factors and is always specific to your diagnosis and condition.
What factors affect how often you should get physiotherapy?
No two people, injuries or conditions are the same, making generalisations about physiotherapy treatment tricky. However, the usual recommendation is 2-3 sessions a week in the initial stages of treatment and recovery, with fewer sessions as your physiotherapy takes effect.
Your physiotherapist will assess your individual situation and determine the correct treatments and exercises for the best chance of recovery or pain management.
It’s worth noting that the number of sessions you need depends on the severity and type of injury and treatment progression. First, your physiotherapist will ask you to attend a consultation where they evaluate your condition. They’ll then determine a treatment schedule with exercises for you to follow at home.
Physiotherapy should start as quickly as possible for acute injuries to reduce pain and prevent permanent damage. Long-term injuries and degenerative conditions may respond positively to physiotherapy. For chronic conditions like arthritis or a herniated disc, you may need a few sessions to manage your pain or prolonged treatment over months.
Depending on the extent of your injury, your physiotherapist will review your treatment schedule after a period of time and make adjustments according to your needs.
How far apart should physiotherapy sessions be?
A good physiotherapy schedule takes account of your needs and, most importantly, allows your body to recover between treatment sessions.
For example, if you’re receiving physiotherapy three times a week, your schedule should allow one day between appointments and a complete rest day at the weekend. During any exercise, your muscles experience fatigue and micro tears. Rest days give your muscles the chance to strengthen and recover.
Physiotherapy can be physically and mentally challenging, so rest days also reduce stress and increase your positive motivation.
Is it possible to do too much physio?
In your quest for recovery, you may think more physio is better. However, if you’re receiving treatment for runner’s knee or swimmer’s elbow, you’ll know that even healthy bodies can get overuse injuries that require rest and physio.
Unfortunately, you can overdo physiotherapy, setting back your recovery. Instead, listen to the advice of your physiotherapist and stick to their treatment schedule. Discuss it with your physio if you don’t feel there’s an improvement. They’ll be able to try different techniques and treatments for improved outcomes.
Book an appointment with a leading physiotherapist in Leeds
Physiotherapy isn’t a one-size-fits-all treatment, and finding the best physio and course of treatment is essential for proper recovery. If you’re looking for an experienced physiotherapist in Leeds, the team at Physio Action. Our Yorkshire-based therapists specialise in sports injuries, neck and back pain and post-op rehabilitation to help your recovery.
Contact us today to find your local clinic.