Goals and Physical Therapy

Setting goals is the best way to achieve a successful rehabilitation outcome.

Goals are often very individualized, but then again so is the rehabilitation process.

Determining Goals

The goals you set should be ones that are important to you.

Physical therapists working with a patient

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However, they must also be realistic and attainable.

Sometimes it helps to think of your goals in terms of function and impairments.

Functional goals may include:

These goals help you get through your day-to-day activities.

They revolve around the different activities functions that people typically do each day.

Impairment goals are those measurable variables that may not be optimal when PT starts.

Then, make several short-term goals that will help you achieve your long-term goal.

Finally progress to walking 200 feet with no rig.

Time Frame

Your therapist will help you determine an appropriate time frame for achieving your goals.

What if you don’t achieve all of your physical therapy goals?

Your physical therapist can help you alter your original goals to make them more attainable.

Sometimes, not all goals are achieved during your physical therapy course.

Setting goals in physical therapy is an important component of your rehab program.

Your rehab goals are your personal roadmap to success in physical therapy after injury or illness.