Patients
are encouraged to enter the active program as soon as the
injury site has been stabilized. This may be as early as
a day after the accident. Goal oriented treatment plans
and compliance are essential for a successful rehabilitation
outcome. This we monitor through performance tests keyed
to qualify functional deficiencies and offer motivation
and feedback. The active conditioning program is divided
into phases which represent a continuum. It is supervised
by
a certified athletic therapist.
ACUTE
PHASE
To motivate patients to perform safe and repetitive movements.
To reactivate patients, increase endorphins and flexibility.
Static stretching and isometric exercises
concluding with icing when necessary.
PHYSICAL
CONDITIONING PHASE
Helps to improve range of motion, flexibility, strength
and cardiovascular fitness.
It is achieved by moving through stations which may include
pulleys, isotonic equipment, free weights, treadmills and
bicycles. Activity is encouraged as tolerated, but always
monitored.
Formalized education on posture, pain and stress management,
lifestyle adaptations and body mechanics.
Incorporating basic functional activities, progressing toward
a functional conditioning component as appropriate and is
about 1 hour.
Patients may attend psycho educational modules at this stage.