How Long Does Physical Therapy Take to Work?

Drew Morcos, Founder
Physical Therapy

Physical therapy is a journey, and akin to any journey, it’s natural to ask, “Are we there yet?” or, in this case, “How long does physical therapy take to work?”

We totally get you.

At Motus Sports Physical Therapy Clinic, we understand that when you’re in pain or unable to do what you love, you want to bounce back as quickly as possible. But as with any journey, the duration of physical therapy varies from one person to another.

So What is Physical Therapy

Physical therapy is a healthcare specialty that focuses on the evaluation, management, correction, and prevention of disorders of human movement. And there are absolutely no invasive techniques involved in the process; think of heat treatment, hydrotherapy, and massage. It’s designed to relieve pain, promote healing, restore function and movement, and prevent re-injury.

However, we want our readers to understand that physical therapy isn’t a magic pill that works overnight. It’s a process that involves time, patience, and active participation from the patient. The duration of physical therapy can vary greatly depending on several factors.

What All Influences Physical Therapy Duration

One of the main factors influencing the duration of physical therapy is the nature and severity of your injury or condition. A minor sprain might require only a few weeks of physical therapy, while a major surgery could require several months or even a year of therapy. Again, it all boils down to an individual’s conditions, commitment, flexibility, etc. 

For instance, if you’ve had knee replacement surgery, the road to recovery can be long and challenging. You’ll need to work on regaining your strength, flexibility, and balance, which can take several months. On the other hand, if you’re dealing with a minor ankle sprain, you might be back on your feet in a few weeks.

We don’t want to beat around the bush. Your age and overall health also play a major role. Younger people tend to heal faster than older people, and those in good health generally recover quicker than those with underlying health conditions.

Let us put things in perspective; a young, healthy athlete might recover from a shoulder injury faster than an older person with diabetes and heart disease.

Another determining factor is your commitment to the therapy program. Physical therapy often involves exercises that you need to do at home in addition to your therapy sessions. The more committed you are to your therapy program, the quicker you will see results. If you fail to move a muscle, nobody can help, not even us. 

What’s Your Role

As a patient, you play a vital role in your recovery. Physical therapy is a two-way street that requires active participation from the patient. We are talking about attending all therapy sessions, doing your home exercises, following your therapist’s advice, and maintaining a positive attitude.

This may sound cliché, but we are gonna say it anyway. Remember, Rome wasn’t built in a day, and neither is your recovery. It’s important to be patient and give your body the time it needs to heal.

The Motus Approach

At Motus Sports Physical Therapy Clinic, we take a personalized approach to patient care. We understand that every patient is unique, and so is their recovery process. That’s why we create individualized treatment plans tailored to meet your specific needs and goals.

Our innovative 1:1 rehab and recovery plans combine cutting-edge technology, functional therapy, brain retraining, neuromuscular training, etc. This approach not only helps to heal your current injury but also prevents future ones. Whether you’re a professional athlete or a fitness enthusiast in Seal Beach, CA, we’re here to help you reach your fitness goals faster.

But it’s not just about the physical aspect of recovery. At Motus, we believe in the power of education. We provide our patients with the knowledge and tools they need to understand their condition, manage their symptoms, and prevent future injuries. We believe that when patients understand their condition and the recovery process, they’re more likely to be engaged and committed to their therapy program.

Conclusion

Back to square one. So, how long does physical therapy take to work? The answer is, “It depends”. It depends on the nature and severity of your injury, your age and overall health, and your commitment to the therapy program. But with the right approach and the right support, you can enhance your recovery and get back to doing the activities you love.

At Motus Sports Physical Therapy Clinic, we’re with you every step of the way. We’re here to provide the support, guidance, and expertise you need to navigate your recovery journey. So, whether you’re in the heart of Orange County or the beautiful surroundings of Seal Beach, CA, remember: you’re not alone in this journey. And with the right approach, including a commitment to your physical therapy program, you can reach your destination faster and more effectively.

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After my first visit with MOTUS PT, the mobility in my shoulder smoother than it's every been in my life. They spent the entire hour appointment working with me on various stretches, manual therapy, and teaching me how to activate specific muscles to begin correcting an imbalance. If you're looking for advanced PT and results--this is 1000% the place!
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