8 reasons to use the in-home exercise program you were given in physical therapy

In-home exercise programs (IHEPs) are an integral part of many physical therapy treatment plans. These personalized exercise plans are designed to complement in-clinic therapy sessions. By performing physical therapy exercises at home, you can boost the effectiveness of your treatment. In-home physical therapy exercises can play a crucial role in offering symptom relief and speeding up your recovery. Despite their importance, many patients struggle to stick with their prescribed IHEP. Studies suggest IHEP nonadherence rates of up to 50%. This can hinder recovery and make other treatments less effective. To stay motivated, it can help to understand the benefits of engaging with your in-home physical therapy exercise program.

8 reasons to get the most out of your physical therapy in-home exercise program

• Accelerated recovery — Want to recover faster? Many people seek physical therapy during recovery from serious incidents like auto injuries. With some injuries and conditions, a full recovery can take a lot of time and patience. Actively participating in your physical therapy treatment plan’s in-home exercises can help shorten this recovery period. With exercises that promote tissue repair and muscle strength, you can work toward a speedy recovery. 
   
• Enhanced mobility — Conditions like arthritis can limit your range of motion. With targeted exercise, this mobility can be restored. An important factor in improving your range of motion is performing prescribed exercises regularly. Developing joint flexibility and mobility can improve other symptoms as well. You may feel pain relief and have restored functionality in your limbs after effective mobility exercises. When working to mobilize joints, manual therapy can also be a great help. This form of physical therapy involves a specialist applying hands-on techniques to your body. By mobilizing tissue, manual therapy can promote healing and restore mobility. Manual therapy combined with in-home exercises can make a highly effective combination.
   
• Improved strength — In-home physical therapy exercises are designed to target specific muscle groups. To get the most out of your treatment, doing these exercises is vital. Consistency is key. Consistently performing targeted exercises can improve muscle strength and stability. Many health conditions can lead to muscle deterioration. By engaging with your exercise regimen, you can help these muscles regain their power.
   
• Ease of access — Exercising at home can save time and money. By reducing the need for in-person sessions, you can cut down on wait times and commutes. This can be especially helpful when your health conditions make travel difficult. If your condition makes clinic visits prohibitive, many providers offer virtual physical therapy in the comfort of your home. A virtual physical therapist can offer live personal instructions for your prescribed exercises.
   
• Progress continuity — Want to keep your recovery momentum going? IHEPs can help your progress continue outside the clinic. This can maximize the benefits of each physical therapy session. To ensure steady progress between sessions, sticking with your exercise program is essential.
   
• Pain management — The conditions that require physical therapy are often painful. Health conditions can cause pain anywhere from the head and neck to the ankles and feet. Pain relief is a high priority for many patients. When you participate in PT exercises between clinic sessions, you can work to keep your pain manageable. Targeted stretches can increase blood flow to reduce swelling and lower pain intensity.
   
• Tailored treatment — Physical therapists develop IHEPs alongside patients. This means your treatment plan can be tailored to your needs. Engaging with your exercises and providing feedback can ensure that your treatment is adjusted when necessary. Fully utilizing your IHEP can empower you to take charge of your recovery.
   
• Long-term health — Sticking to your IHEP does more than aid your current recovery. It can also reduce the likelihood of re-injury and recurrence of other conditions. By improving your health in physical therapy, you can boost your overall well-being in the long term.

Alliance PTP can help find expert physical therapists near you who offer in-home exercise programs

You probably don’t have to go as far as you think to find a physical therapy provider that offers in-home exercise programs to complement in-clinic PT. After all, Alliance Physical Therapy Partners has practices across the country where you can find the physical therapy you need. 
 

And if there isn’t one near you, don’t worry! We also offer highly effective and affordable virtual care in nearly every U.S. state. 

So, don’t keep letting your symptoms affect your day-to-day life. Get in touch with our team today so we can help you find the physical therapy that’s right for you.