How Long Do Physical Therapy Sessions Last?

Physical therapy can decrease pain and reduce the time it takes to recover from an injury. Many patients rely on this form of treatment after an accident or surgical procedure. However, when you sign up for this treatment, it’s natural to wonder: how long do physical therapy sessions last?

Physical therapy duration varies depending upon the extent of your medical needs. Most sessions last about an hour, but this varies based on several medical factors. Learn more about your specific physical therapy needs with the team at Brandon Chiropractic Associates by calling (813) 733-8939.

Length for Individual Physical Therapy Sessions

How long do physical therapy sessions last? In general, an individual session may be over in 30 minutes or may stretch to an hour in length. The physical therapist assesses your unique needs before planning out the session and adjusts accordingly.

In many cases, physical therapists begin patients with shorter sessions to prevent fatigue and over-straining joints or muscles. As you regain strength, medical professionals often lengthen the sessions so you can return to your previous physical condition.

Length for a Chiropractic Visit

Physical therapy refers to many different medical treatments. Some patients seek chiropractic care as a portion of their physical therapy. Chiropractors adjust the position of bones in your neck and spine, bringing your body back into alignment.

Most chiropractic appointments last for about 30 minutes. However, you may expect your first visit to take longer, as the chiropractic team needs to review your health history and recovery goals during this appointment. The chiropractor may also need to take x-rays to assess the condition of your spine.

How Long Do You Need to Continue Physical Therapy?

Generally, one physical therapy session does not address all a patient’s needs. Instead, physical therapy programs last until you recover from an injury or illness. Many patients with soft tissue injuries require around six to eight weeks of therapy sessions.

However, physical therapy should focus on your unique medical needs when planning out your sessions. The therapist assesses your progress at each appointment. You may no longer require physical therapy once you:

●        Reach a plateau in your levels of improvement

●        No longer experience pain

●        Achieve all your recovery goals

●        Get back to your past levels of mobility and activity

If you feel you have reached this point, speak with your therapist about the need for continued therapy.

How Long to Continue Chiropractic Treatments?

The time frame for chiropractic appointments varies based on your specific situation. Chiropractors often handle an injury in as few as two to four weeks.

However, you may require a lengthier period of care if you want chiropractic upkeep for your general wellness or prevention of injury. In this situation, chiropractors often plan to treat you for at least 10 weeks. Speak with a medical professional about the amount of care that would serve you best.

How Many Physical Therapy Sessions Do You Have in a Week?

In addition to wondering “how long do physical therapy sessions last,” many patients want to know if they have to attend multiple sessions a week. At the beginning of your treatment, expect to go to therapy two to three times a week.

Your therapist will space out your visits more as you recover, eventually getting several weeks between appointments until you no longer require this form of treatment.

How Many Chiropractic Appointments Do You Want in a Week?

Individual chiropractors recommend different schedules for treatment. Sometimes, chiropractors recommend up to three appointments a week at the beginning of your treatment. Over time, you may bump down to one per week, or even a visit once every two weeks.

Reducing the Overall Length of Your Physical Therapy

Can you cut down on the amount of physical therapy you require after an accident or injury? Taking specific steps in your day-to-day life helps you recover more quickly. Take proactive steps to speed up your recovery by:

Staying Hydrated

Some physical therapy treatments—like electrical stimulation—may leave you with local inflammation in certain spots of your body. Adequate hydration helps your body clear away the waste products found at the site of inflammation, allowing you to recover more quickly.

Icing Sore Areas

Do you feel sore and tender after a session of physical therapy or chiropractic care? Apply ice to the affected area for 20 minutes to cool and bring down inflammation without relying on prescription pain medications.

Completing Exercises at Home

Many physical therapists recommend that you complete a home exercise program during your treatment. These exercises allow you to regain your strength and support the work of your physical therapist or chiropractor.

Medical professionals may provide a set exercise program for you to follow or offer suggestions about the amount of exercise you should do every day. While exercising has numerous benefits during your recovery, make sure that you do not overdo it and end up straining your injury.

Adhering to All Medical Advice

Medical professionals focus on helping you recover from an injury or illness. During the course of your therapy, the therapist may suggest that you rest, stretch, or look into assistive devices to help with your recovery. Following these pieces of advice allows you to heal more quickly.

Set Up Physical Therapy Sessions Today

How long do physical therapy sessions last? The length of your sessions depends upon your specific circumstances. Brandon, FL, neck pain chiropractors provide you with information about your needs when you contact Brandon Chiropractic Associates at (813) 689-1883.

Chiropractors provide some physical therapy services in Brandon, FL. A professional chiropractic team can also help you dispel myths about physical therapy, ensuring you get the care you deserve after an injury.