Movement is often hailed as medicine for the body, capable of promoting physical health, mental well-being, and overall vitality. Just like medicine, however, the dosage of movement can be crucial. Just as a medication can be under-dosed or over-dosed, so too can exercise. In this blog post we’ll delve into “finding the right dose”.
Consider physical therapy, where movement is prescribed with precision to aid recovery from injury or alleviate chronic conditions. If the prescribed dosage of exercise falls short of what an individual needs to stimulate their body’s systems for positive adaptation, the therapy may yield limited results. In essence, the therapeutic effect is diminished because the body hasn’t been adequately challenged to initiate the desired changes.
Conversely, if someone engages in too much exercise, they risk exacerbating their symptoms or even increasing risk of injury. This can lead them to believe that physical therapy is ineffective or worsening their condition. Just as insufficient dosage can hinder progress, excessive dosage can impede it.
This underscores the importance of working closely with a knowledgeable physical therapist who can tailor treatment plans to individual needs. A skilled therapist can assess your condition, monitor your progress, and adjust the intensity and type of exercises accordingly. They understand that each person’s response to exercise is unique and that a one-size-fits-all approach simply won’t suffice.
Sometimes, the path to recovery is straightforward, and progress is rapid. In these cases, it might seem like a “home run” is achieved within the first few sessions. However, in many instances, patience and ongoing communication are essential. It may take time to find the right balance of exercise intensity and frequency that promotes healing without exacerbation.
This individualized approach is precisely why cookie-cutter exercise programs often fail. Just as not everyone with the same condition receives the same dosage of medication, not everyone benefits from identical exercise regimens. What works for one person may not work for another, and what is therapeutic for one individual may be detrimental to another.
In summary, movement is indeed medicine, but like any medicine, it must be prescribed and administered with care. Working with a skilled physical therapist ensures that the dosage and type of movement are tailored to your specific needs, maximizing the therapeutic benefits while minimizing the risks. It’s through this personalized approach that the true healing power of movement can be realized.
