The importance of a home exercise program
A home exercise program (HEP) is an important tool of physical therapy and the patient becoming independent with his or her care. This is a set of exercises specific to a patient that they are given in physical therapy to complete at home. The patient will go through each exercise with their physical therapist, so the PT can ensure they have the proper form and are experiencing no pain with the exercises. The HEP is advanced throughout the rehab duration as the patient tolerates it. This program eventually supports the transition from physical therapy appointments to patients performing these exercises at home on their own.
Why completing a HEP is important:
Home exercises can help improve muscle memory. This muscle memory is helpful when new exercises are added during rehab sessions.
Research shows patients who comply with a HEP are significantly more successful at achieving rehab goals like regaining physical function. They also tend to experience relief from pain more quickly.
Home exercises can be the beginning of a new active lifestyle.
Home exercise compliance can also help prevent recurrent injuries or flare-ups later on.
As a patient, it is important your exercises are pain-free and somewhat enjoyable! Your therapist can tailor the exercises to ensure proper form and technique to avoid pain or discomfort. Give us a call at 316-613-1074 if you are having any aches, pains or difficulties performing the activities you love doing!
