It’s no secret that physical therapy is crucial for recovery after an injury. Many people skip their recommended sessions, thinking that they can “push through the pain.” They don’t realize that this can lead to more long-term damage and complicate their recovery process. Skipping out on physical therapy can do more harm than good in some cases.
Physical therapy helps your body heal and recover from an injury. It can help to improve range of motion, reduce pain, and prevent further damage. When you skip physical therapy, your body doesn’t get the chance to heal correctly. This can lead to chronic pain, reduced mobility, and even re-injury.
Increased Pain And Inflammation
When you’re injured, your body is already in a state of stress. Skipping physical therapy can increase the amount of pain and inflammation you’re experiencing. This is because your body isn’t given a chance to heal and recover properly.
Inflammation is a natural response by your body to an injury. It helps to protect the area and promote healing. However, too much inflammation can do more harm than good. Chronic inflammation can lead to tissue damage and scarring, making it harder for your body to heal properly.
Skipping physical therapy can also cause the muscles around the injured area to become tighter and weaker. This can lead to further pain and stiffness down the road.
Successful Treatment Is Hindered
Physical Therapy helps in the recovery process following an injury. When you skip physical therapy, you’re not giving your body the best chance to heal correctly. As a result, your injury may take longer to heal and worsen over time.
Hindering your body’s ability to recover properly can also lead to chronic pain and disability development.
More Expensive In The Long Run
Skipping recommended therapy sessions may seem like it’s saving you money in the short term. However, it will cost you more in the long run. If your injury doesn’t heal properly, you may need to undergo more extensive and expensive treatments.
It’s important to remember that physical therapy is an investment in your health. Taking the time to recover properly can save you a lot of pain and suffering down the road.
Mental And Emotional Effects
Physical pain is not the only thing that can be exacerbated by skipping physical therapy. The mental and emotional effects of an injury can also be magnified.
Skipping physical therapy can lead to feelings of isolation, depression, and anxiety. These feelings can make the physical pain worse. It’s essential to address both the physical and emotional aspects of an injury to recover fully.
Bridge Physical Therapy, one of many providers of physical therapy in Ogden, Utah, states that since no two people are the same, each individual will have their own program catered to their needs. By developing a customized regimen tailored to your specific injuries, needs and goals, your physical therapy program will help you recover from your injury and prevent further complications later.
You’re At Risk For Re-Injury
One of the most dangerous effects of skipping physical therapy is the increased risk for re-injury. When you don’t allow your body to heal properly, you’re more likely to reinjure the same area. This can lead to a vicious cycle of pain and injury that’s difficult to break free from.
Re-injury can also make it harder to recover fully the second time around. It can also cause long-term damage to the area, leading to chronic pain.
Loss Of Strength And Mobility
Skipping physical therapy can also lead to a loss of strength and mobility. When you don’t use your muscles, they begin to weaken. It can be challenging to return to your normal activities after an injury.
You may also lose range of motion in the affected area. This can make it difficult to perform simple tasks, such as reaching for something or tying your shoes.
If you’re injured, it’s important to follow your doctor’s recommendations for treatment. Skipping out on physical therapy may seem like the easy way out, but it can do more harm than good in the long run.
Your body needs time to heal correctly, so give it the chance it deserves. If you’re considering skipping physical therapy, talk to your doctor first. They can help you weigh the risks and benefits of treatment and make sure that you’re making the best decision for your situation.
