What should I expect at physical therapy?!
Question:
What should I expect at physical therapy?
I was just diagnosed with degenerative disc disease. Apparently my L5 is 70% collapsed and I'm only 25. I'm a little nervous about the whole thing. I'm starting physical therapy tomorrow. What can I expect it to be like? This is a stupid question, but should I wear work-out clothese?
Answers:
The first visit will primarily consist of history taking...be prepared to answer the following questions:
1. Describe the pain and location/intensity
2. Is it constant or intermittent
3. Does is radiate anywhere other than the spine
4. When/ how (if known) did it occur
5. What types of things aggrevate it, and what helps it?
6. How does it affect your life...do you have difficulty completing your daily activities because of it? How?
7. What are your goals...what do you hope to do better as a result of PT?
I would say wear comfortable clothes...you might be asked to donn a gown...depending on the therapist and your history. You will be taken through several movements and procedures to see what types of tissues are injured, and to establish baselines. Some of the things that will be done may be uncomfortable...but know that it is not the goal to "hurt" you each time you come it...quite the contrary, we are looking for what feels better. However, just be aware that the eval might leave you feeling a little "sore." Discuss with the therapist what steps you can take later that evening if the pain increases with examination (usually cold pack 3-4 times a day for 1-2 days).
In general, wear comfortable clothes.
One last thing...don't get hung up on having "degenerative disc disease"...it's not a disease at all...we all experience disc degeneration...starting in our teens for many people. Presense of a degnerative disc does not always conincide with one's pain...that's why a thorough evaluation by a therapist needs to be done to help classify the type of pain your are having.
Good luck for a speedy recovery.