Today marked my return to physical therapy after nearly two years of neglecting myself. The memories flooded back as I stepped into the familiar clinic, reminders of my left hip replacement and torn Achilles tendon. It's astonishing how quickly you forget the toll Fibro takes on your body—stiffness, weakness, exhaustion—all magnified by the passage of time. I couldn't ignore the reality any longer; I've let myself deteriorate, neglected the very advice I once championed. But today, as I struggled through each movement, a flicker of determination ignited within me. I refuse to be a prisoner to my pain any longer. It's time to reclaim my strength and advocate for myself once more.
The first physical therapy appointment (what to expect and how did go?)
During their first physical therapy appointment, a first-time patient can expect an initial evaluation by the therapist to assess their condition, medical history, and treatment goals. This may involve discussing symptoms, conducting physical examinations, and possibly performing certain movements or exercises. The therapist will then create a personalized treatment plan tailored to the patient's needs, which may include a combination of exercises, manual therapy, education, and modalities like heat or ice therapy.
During my first appointment to restart physical therapy, the therapist at ATI carefully reviewed the notes from my chronic pain specialist. She then posed a poignant question: "Describe how Fibromyalgia, low back, and hip pain have adversely impacted your life." Her empathy nearly moved me to tears; she saw beyond my diagnoses to acknowledge the person behind the pain. I recounted how my conditions led to the end of my careers and marriage, how I struggled with balance issues and frequent falls, resulting in severe concussions. Tears welled as I recalled a terrifying incident while babysitting my grandson. Despite my emotional recount, Lauren listened attentively, jotting down notes. Afterward, she guided me through various movements to assess my range of motion and pain levels. And just like that, day one was behind me.
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