Complete Recovery: A Comprehensive Guide to Rehabilitation

Mark Macdonald
May 9
3 min read

Updated: Jun 3

When you are injured and eager to recover fully, adhering to a proper rehabilitation framework is crucial. Following a scheduled plan will greatly enhance your chances of a successful return to normal activities.

Your rehabilitation journey will depend on the type and severity of your injury. However, we believe that the following structured framework will provide you with the best possible rehabilitation experience.

Phase 1 - Rest and Protect the Injury

The first phase is focused on minimizing further damage and allowing your body to start healing. During this time, we emphasize active rest. This means you should rest from activities that aggravate the injury while staying active in other ways. For example, if you sprain an ankle, you might be able to walk (with tape or an ankle guard) but should avoid running or sports activities.

Pain relief methods such as medication and ice can be important during this phase. They help manage pain and promote continued activity.

What Will Your Physio Do?

Manual therapy is an effective way to modulate pain and will be a key focus during the early management stage. Your physiotherapist will prescribe exercises that promote movement without aggravating your pain. They may also suggest taping or bracing techniques.

It's generally optimal to have treatment sessions two to three times per week during this initial phase.

Phase 2 - Recover Movement

Restoring your range of motion is vital. Many people unknowingly keep their injured joint in one position for too long, leading to stiffness that can be hard to overcome. To counteract this, targeted stretching exercises will help recover your lost mobility.

While stretching is essential, we must be cautious not to push too far, as the injury is still in early healing stages.

What Will Your Physio Do?

Your physiotherapist will continue manual therapy and guide you through your range of motion exercises. Initially, these may be passive exercises, gradually progressing to active ones. Taping and bracing will be phased out, and heat therapy may be introduced.

During this phase, optimal treatment will typically be one to two times per week.

Phase 3 - Recover Your Strength

Even a short period of immobilization can lead to significant muscle weakness. Injuries such as muscle tears and tendinopathy often result in poor muscle strength. Maintaining cardiovascular fitness during this time is also crucial, especially for athletes.

Strengthening the muscle groups around the injured area is essential. Other muscle groups that may not be directly related to the injury may also need rehabilitation.

What Will Your Physio Do?

While some manual therapy will continue, the focus will shift to regaining strength. This prepares you to return to everyday activities.

During this phase, optimal treatment may reduce to one to two times per week and even extend to fortnightly sessions as you progress.

Phase 4 - Recover Your Function

At this stage, you should have clear goals for getting back to your activities. Whether it’s playing netball, gardening, or holding your grandchild, your exercises will be tailored to help you achieve these goals.

For athletes, functional activities like running, jumping, and passing will be emphasized. If you're returning to work, it might involve tasks such as lifting or reaching.

What Will Your Physio Do?

Your physiotherapist will work closely with you to progress your strengthening exercises. Your program will incorporate the specific skilled activities needed for your routine. With athletes, training sessions will be planned according to your capabilities to ensure a safe and effective return. For workers, your physiotherapist will coordinate with your doctor to monitor your capacity, facilitating a gradual and successful return to work.

Phase 5 - Prevent Recurrence

This phase is often overlooked, yet it is critical in preventing future injuries. Many patients skip this step, which leads to higher chances of re-injury.

Preventing recurrence involves escalating your strength level so you're prepared for increased activity loads. For example, if you can handle one hour of gardening but try to work for ninety minutes without proper preparation, you're at risk. Completing phase 5 will help you manage heightened activity more effectively.

What Will Your Physio Do?

Your physiotherapist will design a tailored exercise program to strengthen your body and prevent future injuries. They may recommend regular visits every 4 to 6 weeks to help maintain your strength.

Our experienced physiotherapists will guide you through your rehabilitation to ensure that you not only return to the activities you love but also reduce the risk of recurring injuries. Be sure to explore the benefits of engaging in a comprehensive rehabilitation program.