Why do we need physical rehabilitation?
Over time, injured muscles shorten, go into spasm, and become scarred and tender, putting stress on joints and irritating nerves, which results in additional pain. The injured muscles also progressively decrease their function, relying on other muscles to take over function in the affected areas.
A correct exercise program should focus on restoring normal function to injured muscles by gently stretching them to relieve spasm, breaking down scar tissue, and then rebuilding muscle strength.
Essentially, rehabilitation works to optimize your functionality, both physical and emotional, so you can perform usual tasks and activities without constant and nagging discomfort.
Active rehabilitation involves exercise therapy combined with postural and biomechanical education and correction. Exercises strengthen muscles, increase range of motion, and help maintain correct posture. They also improve your cardiovascular fitness, boost energy levels, decrease mental stress, and improve your sense of well-being and self-esteem.
Who is on the physical rehabilitation team?
A physical rehabilitation team typically consists of the following health care professionals:
- physical therapist
- occupational therapist
- kinesiologist
- chiropractor
- massage therapist
This team works together in constant communication to enhance patient comfort and efficiency and to provide quality care in the process toward physical rehabilitation.