When a patient walks in for physical therapy, one of the things they are sent home with is a home exercise program. But what exactly are the benefits of a home exercise program? If you’re on the fence about whether or not to take your HEP seriously, we’re here to tell you why you should.
A home exercise program is a personalized plan that is based on an individual’s specific abilities and needs based on their injury, diagnosis, and various functional assessments. They are intended to improve strength, stability, and mobility around an injury to prepare you for any challenges that may arise. Most home exercise programs typically are recommended to be performed multiple times daily – and the more you stick to your program, the better your results.
There is an overwhelming amount of evidence to support the positive impact home exercise programs have. Despite this, only 30% of patients actually stick with their programs.
Benefits of Home Exercise Programs
Research shows that when patients participated in a home exercise program, they saw long-term improvements in their injuries and outcomes.
Continuation of forwarding progression in rehabilitation
Physical and occupational therapists tailor each program to the abilities and strengths of each patient. A patient that completes their home exercise program is more likely to excel in the one-on-one sessions at the clinic and experience fewer setbacks in rehabilitation.
Increases level of mobility and endurance
Exercise in the home is designed to continue the progress of the clinic visit by increasing a patient’s flexibility and stamina. A good home exercise program allows a patient to increase function and improve muscle memory so that progress is gained rather than lost from one visit to another.
For some patients, therapy doesn’t end at discharge
A home exercise program can help a patient remain pain-free and functional without having to pay for repeat visits and costly medical bills. For patients experiencing chronic pain – a home exercise program is a ticket to staying out of the doctor’s office.
Home exercise programs work, but consistency is key. Despite the benefits of a home exercise program, patients have trouble following through on their home exercise program goals. We’re going to go over some of the more common excuses:
I don’t have time, because life at home is too busy
It can be hard, especially for those running a household with multiple schedules to accommodate. However, a physical therapist can offer suggestions on working these into your schedule. Some exercises can be done at work, at home, or on the playground. If time is truly a concern, then don’t be afraid to let the therapist know.
It hurts
Some pain is considered normal – it’s a normal part of the exercise. However, if you are doing an exercise and something feels wrong, let your physical therapist know immediately. Don’t wait until your next appointment and tell yourself you will take care of it then. It could be something as simple as not doing the exercise correctly and they can talk you through it over the phone. Communication is a large part of rehabilitation, and your therapist wants to know if something is causing concern.
Not Motivated
Not seeing the point of the exercises your therapist gave you – ask them why it is so beneficial. Going to see a physical therapist 2-3 times a week alone without doing home exercises will not be enough to maintain muscle strength and flexibility. Healthy habits begin with persistence. If you need motivation talk to your therapist, they are born motivators and want nothing more than to watch you succeed. Enlist the help of family or friends to keep asking about your progress.
The goal of physical therapy and their home exercise programs are the same. To help you heal effectively. If you have questions about your home exercise program and what it contributes to your recovery talk to one of our physical therapists. Education and understanding are crucial to making sure your experience in recovery is successful.
