What Happens When You Skip Your Recommended Physical Therapy Sessions

Many people underestimate the importance of physical therapy in recovering from an injury. Instead of following their prescribed sessions, they may believe they can tough it out. However, neglecting physical therapy can result in more severe long-term consequences and complicate the recovery process. In some cases, not attending physical therapy sessions can do more harm than good.

Physical therapy plays a crucial role in helping your body heal and recuperate after an injury. It aids in enhancing range of motion, alleviating pain, and preventing further harm. If you skip your physical therapy sessions, your body misses out on the opportunity to heal effectively. This can lead to persistent pain, decreased mobility, and even the risk of reinjury.

Increased Pain And Inflammation

When you are injured, your body is already under significant stress. Skipping physical therapy can exacerbate the pain and inflammation you are already experiencing. By neglecting proper therapy, your body is denied the chance to heal and recuperate adequately.

Inflammation is a natural response by the body to an injury, serving to protect the affected area and facilitate the healing process. However, excessive inflammation can have detrimental effects. Prolonged inflammation can lead to tissue damage and scarring, hindering the body’s ability to heal properly.

Furthermore, skipping physical therapy can result in the muscles surrounding the injury becoming tighter and weaker, ultimately leading to increased pain and stiffness in the future.

An Impediment to Successful Recovery

Physical therapy is instrumental in the recovery journey post-injury. By forgoing your prescribed therapy sessions, you are compromising your body’s ability to heal optimally. Consequently, the healing process may be prolonged, and the condition could worsen over time.

Impeding your body’s ability to recover adequately can also result in the development of chronic pain and disability.

Long-Term Financial Ramifications

While skipping recommended therapy sessions may appear cost-effective in the short term, it can lead to greater expenses in the long run. If an injury does not heal properly, more extensive and costly treatments may be required.

It is essential to recognize that physical therapy is an investment in your health. Allowing yourself the necessary time to recover can prevent significant pain and distress in the future.

Impact on Mental and Emotional Well-Being

The repercussions of skipping physical therapy are not limited to physical pain; they can also extend to mental and emotional well-being.

Avoiding physical therapy can result in feelings of isolation, depression, and anxiety, which can exacerbate physical pain. It is vital to address both the physical and emotional aspects of an injury to achieve complete recovery.

According to Bridge Physical Therapy, among the providers in Ogden, Utah, each individual receives a customized program tailored to their specific needs. This personalized approach helps individuals recover from their injuries and avoid future complications.

Increased Risk of Re-injury

A concerning consequence of skipping physical therapy is the heightened risk of reinjury. When the body is not given the opportunity to heal properly, the likelihood of injuring the same area again increases. This can lead to a cycle of pain and injury that is challenging to break out of.

Reinjury can impede full recovery the second time around and cause lasting harm to the area, resulting in chronic pain.

Depletion of Strength and Mobility

Neglecting physical therapy can also lead to a decline in strength and mobility. Muscles weaken when not utilized, making it challenging to resume normal activities post-injury.

Additionally, a loss of range of motion in the affected area can hinder simple tasks like reaching for objects or tying shoelaces.

In cases of injury, it is vital to adhere to the treatment recommendations provided by your physician. While skipping physical therapy may seem like a shortcut, it can have adverse effects in the long term.

Allow your body the necessary time to heal appropriately. If you are contemplating skipping physical therapy, consult your doctor first. They can assist you in evaluating the risks and benefits of treatment, ensuring that you make the best decision for your situation.