How Long Does Physical Therapy Take?

Are you considering physical therapy but wondering how long it takes to see results? The physical therapy industry is expected to grow rapidly in the coming years. About 63% of individuals undergoing physical therapy experience mobility and pain relief improvements within the first few weeks.

The most common reasons for seeking physical therapy are back pain, joint replacement, sports injuries, neurological disorders, and post-operative rehabilitation.

However, do you know how long the process takes and what factors influence its duration? At Ability Rehabilitation, we understand the importance of addressing such concerns to ensure a smooth rehabilitation journey. This blog will discuss the physical therapy timeline and what to expect along the way.

The duration of physical therapy varies depending on factors such as the type and severity of the injury. Typically, the initial session lasts approximately an hour, although it is advisable to allocate a few extra minutes to discuss the treatment plan and future sessions.

For your physical therapy sessions, it is recommended that you wear loose-fitting clothing and comfortable shoes. This attire enables your therapist to assess your range of motion (ROM) and strength accurately. If you’re undergoing therapy for knee-related issues, wearing shorts is preferable, as pants can slightly restrict your ROM, making treatment less effective.

A physical therapist is a vital healthcare professional who enhances your body’s physical functionality. Their expertise extends to managing symptoms such as pain, stiffness, and discomfort, aiming to optimize your overall mobility and well-being.

While many individuals seek the assistance of a physical therapist during their recovery from injury or surgery, their role transcends rehabilitation alone. Physical therapists are vital in improving movement confidence and safety, addressing specific health conditions, and proactively preventing injuries.

Physical therapists become integral members of your care team by collaborating closely with primary healthcare providers. Together, they work to diagnose, treat, and prevent issues that impede your ability to move freely and comfortably, ensuring a comprehensive approach to your overall health and mobility.

Healing time varies depending on the type of tissue affected. Here are the average healing times for different tissues:

• Muscle: 2-4 weeks
• Tendon: 4-6 weeks
• Bone: 6-8 weeks
• Ligaments: 10-12 weeks
• Cartilage: up to 12 weeks

Muscles heal faster than other tissues due to their rich blood supply, consistently delivering nutrients to the affected area. Tendons and ligaments have a more limited blood supply, resulting in a longer healing process. Cartilage, lacking a direct blood supply, further extends the healing duration.

Bone healing takes time because it requires load-bearing. Broken bones cannot bear weight initially, as doing so can lead to severe tissue damage. However, prolonged immobilization of a bone can cause muscle atrophy and subsequent weakness.

When preparing for your first appointment, it’s important to dress appropriately and be ready for what lies ahead.

Here’s what you can expect during your initial physical therapy session:

• Initial Evaluation: Your physical therapist will begin with an assessment, asking about your symptoms and pain levels, usually rated on a scale of 0 to 10. They’ll also delve into your medical history to better understand your injuries.
• Comprehensive Evaluation: This involves a thorough examination focusing on evaluating the impact of your illness or injury. Tests may include assessing your strength, functional mobility, range of motion, neurological screenings, balance, and evaluation of muscles and joints.
• Designing a Treatment Program: Your physical therapist will create a personalized treatment plan tailored to your needs based on the evaluation results and your doctor’s recommendations.

Typically, your physical therapy program will commence during the first visit. You’ll be provided with a home exercise program to perform between sessions. Adhering strictly to this regimen is essential, as consistency is key to reaping the benefits of physical therapy, especially when supplemented with exercises at home.

Although attending physical therapy sessions two or three times a week may appear excessive to some, it’s important to understand the importance of regular visits.

In general, it’s recommended to continue with physical therapy until you complete your program or until you and your therapist determine that adjustments to your goals are necessary. Typically, soft tissue healing takes around 6 to 8 weeks, so your physical therapy course may extend for that duration.

Throughout your visits, your physical therapist will continuously evaluate your progress and provide additional recommendations based on your evolving needs and whether you’ve achieved your functional objectives. As you advance through your program, the duration and frequency of your sessions may be adjusted accordingly.

Understanding the duration of physical therapy is important for setting expectations and achieving optimal outcomes. If you’re ready to take the next step towards improved mobility and function, schedule an appointment with Ability Rehabilitation today. Our skilled professionals are dedicated to guiding you through your therapy program and helping you regain your quality of life.