After going through the process of searching for the right therapist — you’ve chosen Hands-on Therapy Services and booked your first session. While you may be feeling excited to get started on your journey to recovery – you may not know what to expect.
It’s common to be nervous before your first session. The unexpected can make us feel uneasy. Especially when you’re dealing with nagging pains or surgery recovery. Whatever the reason — keep reading to find out how you can get the most out of your experience here at Hands-on Therapy Services.
How To Get The Most Out Of Your Sessions
While you have goals in mind and know what you want to achieve, here are some extra tips to make sure you get the most out of your therapy experience.
Mindset matters in therapy
just like in every aspect of life. When you come motivated and ready to work with us during treatment — you are actively setting yourself up for success.
Not only does it help your mood, but it also helps your performance. When you are in a motivated mindset and come ready to achieve your goals — this helps you feel energized which allows you to perform better during your sessions.
Making sure you have a positive mindset during PT is one of the best things you can do for not only your body but yourself – allowing you to get the most out of your experience.
Commit to the work
While sometimes staying motivated can be difficult and challenging — committing to the work and the appointments you make is essential to your recovery.
It’s possible there are going to be days when you don’t feel motivated to come to your appointment – you’d rather just stay at home on the couch.
What makes the difference is showing up anyways, and staying committed, even when you feel like doing the opposite.
We know recovery can be a long process for some — but we’ll be there with you every step of the way. Committing and showing up is a great way to ensure you’re making the most out of your experience.
Keep the end goal in mind
Remember why you started in the first place. There’s so much you’ve had to miss out on due to your pain — and you’re finally taking the necessary steps to get back to the life you’ve been missing.
It’s likely that the pain you’re experiencing has held you back from certain areas of your life.
Maybe you’ve had to hold back during your workouts and modify your intensity.
Maybe you can’t play and keep up with your grandchildren like you’d wish to.
Maybe it’s simple activities that have become difficult, like going up and down the stairs or walking around the grocery store.
Reasons like this are why you started – because you’re not able to live life YOUR way.
So, when times get tough and motivation is low — remember why you started. Remind yourself of all the things you want to get back to. Keeping a list of goals and reasons, whether it’s in a journal or on your phone, can be an excellent reminder to keep going when you feel like quitting.
Ask questions
Your OT is there to help. If there is anything you are concerned about or there’s just a simple question you’d like answered – don’t be afraid to ask.
Your OT is there for YOU.
Their job is to make sure you feel comfortable during your sessions. Asking questions shows that you care and will help you get a clear understanding of what you’re going through – allowing you to continue your sessions with clarity and peace of mind.
Hopefully, these tips have helped you prepare and set you up for success during your physical therapy sessions. When you keep a positive mindset and come motivated – you can be sure you’ll be getting the most out of therapy.
If you’re interested in finding out more about our therapy services and how we can get you back to the life you’ve been missing, be sure to contact us at 78.615.9879 or email us at info@handsots.com to find out more.
Written by Hoang Tran
About the author – Hoang Tran; an expert in physical & occupational therapy
Hoang Tran is a Miami certified hand therapist, the owner of Hands-on Therapy Services, and the author of the book “The Hands-On Approach”. She loves helping people with hand, neck, and shoulder problems because she knows how bad and debilitating they can get if not addressed and treated properly (once and for all!).
The aim of her Miami occupational therapy practice is to bring patients back to full functionality, without pills, injections, or surgery. Occupational and Physical Therapy are both offered at Hands-On Therapy by our experienced therapists who provide a comprehensive approach to your care.
If you are struggling with hand and wrist pain, including
- Flexor Tendon Laceration
- Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
- Mallet Finger
- Trigger Finger Or Trigger Thumb
or any other hand condition, speak with one of our specialists for FREE by signing up for a 30-minute Discovery Visit here! Talk to our specialist first before booking any paid session. We like to ensure that we can help you before taking you on as a client.
PS. Seven step-by-step tips that you can start right away to recover quicker after hand, wrist or shoulder surgery. Click for the After Surgery Guide.
The material contained on this site is for informational purposes only and DOES NOT CONSTITUTE THE PROVIDING OF MEDICAL ADVICE, and is not intended to be a substitute for independent professional medical judgment, advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions or concerns you may have regarding your health.
