5 Reasons to Avoid Skipping Physical Therapy Appointments

Working with a physical therapist can improve the quality of your life in many different ways, says Alissa Rocco, a physical therapist at JFK Johnson Rehabilitation Institute. 

If your doctor prescribes physical therapy for injury, illness or even the physical changes that occur by simply aging, it’s important to be consistent with attending your appointments. 

“There may be days when you’re tired, it’s inconvenient, you’re busy, or progress is slow and you want to skip your appointment,” Alissa says. “But consistently receiving physical therapy is the key to getting your best results.”

Here are five important reasons to make the effort—even if it’s challenging—to get to that physical therapy appointment you have scheduled.

1. You Can Delay Your Healing 

Each appointment is key to improving your strength and agility, and skipping appointments will delay recovery. Whether you are going to physical therapy to heal injuries or to rehabilitate cardiac or neurological conditions, you cannot achieve the benefits without working with your physical therapist. Skipped appointments will ultimately postpone or prolong the results and goals you are working toward achieving.

2. The Pain May Not Go Away on Its Own

Alissa explains: “Physical therapy can help to improve alignment and range of motion for various joints – this can help decrease pain, as well as improve your overall movement ability for daily tasks.”

3. You May Put Yourself at Risk for Future Injury 

Physical therapy can help you develop strength and learn proper body mechanics that are key to preventing future injuries. 

4. It Can Be Costly 

If your condition worsens because you missed therapy, you may end up needing an extended length of stay or additional medical procedures. As a result, there may be increased utilization of insurance benefits and additional out of pocket costs.

5. You Miss Out On Being Supported In Your Recovery

Your physical therapist works with you and your medical team to ensure that you get the best care possible. Going to physical therapy allows you to be actively involved in setting your goals and developing an exercise program. In addition, your physical therapist can provide you with community resources to address your concerns.

At times, practical considerations can make it difficult to attend your appointments. If you have issues with transportation, preferences for the time of day you come in or other factors that are problems for you, discuss them with your physical therapist, who can work with you on scheduling or refer you to professionals who can help with other issues.

Next Steps & Resources:

• Meet our source: Alissa Rocco
• Find a physical therapy location near you

The material provided through HealthU is intended to be used as general information only and should not replace the advice of your physician. Always consult your physician for individual care.