Rehabilitation: When to Pause Your Therapy Sessions - Rehabilitation

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Rehabilitation issues?


Hello Director Chen! Before starting rehabilitation, I experienced intermittent numbness and soreness in my left hand.
After some neck stretching, the discomfort has significantly reduced, and I only feel occasional numbness now.
I have been in rehabilitation for over a month.
May I pause the sessions? If not, how much longer do you think I will need? Thank you!

Xiao Cao, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2007/04/12

Dr. Chen Xianchang reply Rehabilitation


1.
Cervical traction should be performed until symptom relief or the maximum weight is reached (approximately 1/4 of body weight, up to a maximum of 14 kg), and should be maintained for one to two weeks, after which rehabilitation can be temporarily paused.
2.
At home, it is important to perform exercises to strengthen neck muscles, such as using the hands to guide movements in four directions and performing isometric exercises with neck resistance.

Reply Date: 2007/04/12

More Info


Hello! It's great to hear that you've been experiencing some relief from your symptoms after a month of rehabilitation. The decision to pause or continue therapy sessions should be based on several factors, including your current condition, the progress you've made, and the recommendations of your healthcare provider.

In rehabilitation, especially for conditions involving pain or discomfort like you described with your left hand, it's crucial to assess not just the immediate relief but also the underlying issues that may still need attention. While you may feel that your symptoms have lessened, it's important to consider the following points before deciding to pause your therapy:
1. Progress Evaluation: Have you discussed your progress with your therapist or physician? They can provide a professional evaluation of your condition and help determine if you are ready to pause therapy. They may also assess your range of motion, strength, and any residual symptoms that could benefit from continued treatment.

2. Underlying Issues: Sometimes, symptoms like numbness or pain can be indicative of underlying issues that may not be fully resolved. If your therapist has identified any specific weaknesses or imbalances, continuing therapy could help prevent future problems.

3. Home Exercise Program: If you do decide to pause therapy, it’s essential to have a home exercise program in place. Your therapist should provide you with exercises to maintain your progress and prevent regression. Make sure you understand how to perform these exercises correctly and consistently.

4. Monitoring Symptoms: If you choose to pause therapy, keep a close eye on your symptoms. If you notice a return of discomfort or new symptoms, it may be necessary to resume therapy sooner rather than later.

5. Duration of Therapy: The duration of rehabilitation varies widely depending on the individual and the specific condition being treated. Your therapist can give you a better estimate based on your progress and the goals set at the beginning of your treatment.

6. Communication with Your Therapist: Open communication with your therapist is key. They can provide insights into whether a pause is advisable and what signs to watch for that might indicate the need to return to therapy.

In summary, while it may be tempting to pause therapy after experiencing some relief, it's essential to consider the overall picture of your health and recovery. Consulting with your healthcare provider will give you the best guidance tailored to your specific situation. They can help you weigh the benefits of continuing therapy against the progress you've made and your long-term health goals. Remember, rehabilitation is not just about alleviating symptoms but also about ensuring that you regain full function and prevent future issues. Best of luck with your recovery!

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