Embarking on a journey of rehabilitation is a courageous step towards reclaiming your health and well-being. Working with an exercise physiologist can be invaluable in providing guidance, safe and effective exercise prescription, and professional supervision.
As Exercise Physiologists we often hear the question "How many sessions will I need with you?” As we are all very individualistic in how we present, there is no-one-size-fits-all answer here.
In this blog post, we will delve into this topic, highlighting the factors that influence the number of sessions required, and provide general guidelines to help YOU plan your rehabilitation journey effectively.
Initial Assessment and Individual Needs
Rehabilitation from chronic diseases or injuries requires a comprehensive understanding of your unique situation. Your exercise physiologist will conduct an initial assessment to gather information about your medical history, current health conditions, limitations, current capacity, and rehabilitation goals. This assessment serves as a foundation for designing a tailored exercise program. The number of sessions needed initially will depend on the complexity of your condition and the amount of information that needs to be collected to inform your rehabilitation plan.
Severity and Complexity of the Condition
The severity and complexity of your chronic disease or injury play a significant role in determining the duration of your rehabilitation program. Conditions that are less severe or have simpler rehabilitation protocols may require fewer sessions. Conversely, if you are dealing with a complex or long-standing condition, or if your injury is severe, your rehabilitation may involve a more extended period and a higher number of sessions to address all the facets of your recovery effectively.
Functional Capacity and Progression
Exercise programs are typically structured to improve your functional capacity progressively. As you make progress and your body adapts to the exercises, your exercise physiologist will modify the program to challenge you appropriately and further enhance your functional capacity. The number of sessions required will depend on your initial functional capacity, the pace of your progress, and the degree of improvement needed to reach your goals. Regular sessions are crucial to monitor your progress, adjust exercises, and ensure a safe and effective recovery process.
Education, Guidance, and Skill Development
Rehabilitation often involves relearning or adapting movement patterns, developing strength, and improving mobility. Your exercise physiologist will provide you with education, guidance, and exercises specific to your condition. They will help you understand proper form, movement techniques, and provide strategies for managing symptoms or limitations. The number of sessions needed will vary based on your ability to grasp and apply this knowledge, as well as your commitment to practicing exercises outside of supervised sessions.
Long-Term Management and Lifestyle Change
Rehabilitation is not limited to the duration of supervised sessions. Successful recovery often requires long-term management and lifestyle changes to maintain the progress achieved. Your exercise physiologist can assist you in developing strategies for independent self-care, providing recommendations for ongoing exercise, and helping you adopt healthy lifestyle habits. The number of sessions required may decrease as you become more confident and proficient in managing your condition independently, but periodic follow-ups can be beneficial to monitor your long-term progress and make any necessary adjustments.
Conclusion
The number of sessions you will need with an exercise physiologist for rehabilitation from chronic diseases and injuries depends on various factors, including the complexity of your condition, your progress, and the need for ongoing support. While there is no predetermined answer, rehabilitation is a journey that requires patience, commitment, and collaboration between you and your exercise physiologist. With their expertise, guidance, and tailored rehabilitation program, you can enhance your recovery, regain function, and improve your overall quality of life. Embrace the process, stay dedicated, and have trust in the expertise of your exercise physiologist to facilitate your rehabilitation journey.
It important to us that we can get you back to being able to manage independently.
Remember that movement is medicine, and our bodies capabilities are incredible, lets continue to make the most of them!