Terrified of the idea of physical therapy

[MSLorrie]

My neurologist told me she would let me make the decision about Physical Therapy "this time" but sees it in my future due to balance and gait issues.

I envision something like what I went through in Army Basic Training.

I am exercising on my own - 20 minutes 4-5 times a week on the elliptical trainer, medium intensity, also walking, sit-ups, push-ups, and working on a weight training machine...but apparently I am not doing enough exercise to satisfy my doctors.

I am dreading having a drill sergeant screaming at me to do things I am incapable of doing, for however many hours a day physical therapy encompasses. Is it done every day of the week, or will I get weekends off?

I thought I was doing well enough in my at-home exercise program to avoid the torture of a Physical Therapist but I guess not, I guess that will be a part of my future whether I like it or not.

I briefly considered not going back to a neuro at all, but then I wouldn't get the scripts for Copaxone and Provigil I so vitally need.

I guess I am trapped. You would think having a terminal disease would be bad enough on it's own, but, no, there are going to be lots of additional torments along the way, obviously.

Feeling very down about all this today. I don't know exactly what PT is but I have heard it is hades on earth.

[kelm10]

give it a try

Be open and honest to the Physical therapist about what your workout is. The order for your PT should have a statement that says the reason for PT is for balance, IMO.

I do not do land workout, but, I do water workout. I would go to PT after my water workout, they are less then a mile apart. That way they did not make me do the treadmill as a warm up, unless you want to do your workout there, but, they probably will not allow enough time for your traditional workout.

IMO (in my opinion) since you are already doing that much of a work out that PT will equate to pain and torture for you.

Most likely the PT will give you some exercises for your balance. Many of these may include working on a balance ball. There is other exercises that can help work on your balance.

They most likely will ask what your goal at physical therapy. So, be honest as to what you want to work on, and give them a goal that also includes that you do not up to "having a drill sergeant screaming at me to do things I am incapable of doing, for however many hours a day physical therapy encompasses."

How many days a week depends on how the order is written and what the PT and you think that you should do. Weekend PT is not very common. The other thing is, that they will not keep you in PT unless you are making progress. So, if it is most likely that you can do the things at home, you can be discharged from PT.

Good luck, and if you have any further questions, ask away.

[rdmc]

See if they have a Balance and Gait PT center in your area.

They are really tuned into neuro patients and very, very helpful.

[heliotrope]

There are - like in everything else - good PTs and bad PTs. Frankly, I credit mine for the fact that I still have most of my walking ability. She's been doing everything she can think of to combat new symptoms. Look for someone that is going to spend one on one time with you and is aware of your limitations, whether or not they are from MS. That person is not always at an MS center. I had an "MS specialist" blow off my symptoms as something else (I have additional joint issues). My current PT is at the local medical center. It's truly a matter of finding someone who fits with you.

[Mamabug]

I had only positive PT experiences. No drill sergeant. Only simple exercises that made absolutely huge improvements in my mobility. After the first visit, I was so impressed that I told her -- whatever you tell me to do, I will absolutely follow your directions.

~ Faith

[MSLorrie]

Thank you all so much. I hope I won't have a negative experience.

If I do, I will see if I can go somewhere else. Anyway hopefully I won't have to do it for at least six months, until my next neurologist visit.

I still feel it's something I am being forced into against my will and that doesn't sit well with me, just from an emotional standpoint. I don't expect to benefit from it in the slightest, it would just be something I had to do to get the doctors off my back.

[Special Kay]

Agree with Mamabug.

I've been to PT ~many~ times, mostly for sports-related injuries. My experience is that the exercises are targeted and can be pretty subtle and even easy. Sometimes it seems that they can't possibly be doing any good. I think this is why people often don't continue with PT once started because they don't feel a huge impact.

But it totally works. And PTs are really warm, caring people, in my experience.

[MSLorrie]

Thank you! I hope the PTs are nice.

I guess it is the only way I can get the doctors off my back. I might as well get it over with.

Once you start, is it a lifelong thing or do you ever get to stop going?

Thank you all very much for your replies. You guys are very caring and kind and I appreciate you very much.

I'm still just feeling out of sorts because I hate how my life feels as if it's spun out of my control in so many ways, including this new requirement that I submit to physical therapy.

[Mamabug]

Yes. So subtle that, sometimes it seems like they can't possibly do any good. I first followed directions thinking"this is stupid. It can't work". After lifting a leg off the floor, a few inches, multiple times each day, I was so improved by the next visit that I was blown away. I have HUGE respect for PT.

She also gave me exercises to help trigger, and learn to tolerate dizziness. Got rid of hugely disabling dizziness. She had some specific training in vestibular therapy.

No, not a lifetime thing. Have a specific goal. Ends when goal is met, or, if no progress is occurring.

~ Faith

[Seasha]

Hi Lorie - I may be late in replying, but this caught my eye because I am going through PT right now for gait problems, weakness and balance issues. I have done PT many times in my MS life (and even before) and have nothing but good things to say about it. My sessions last about 4-6 weeks and 2x per week.

I am SPMS and my walking has become so bad that gradually over the years I've developed some habits that are throwing off my body's structure. My first appt was awesome with a functional capacity test to see what were my weaknesses. From there they have designed exercises specific to my needs and abilities to help strength muscles and regain more balance.

Some of the balance exercises are designed to help re-wire my brain. Same with my walking - I feel like I'm learning how to walk - (correctly and within my ability!) - all over again!

You might want to ask for a PT that specializes in MS or is very familiar with it. I did and am so glad for someone who is trained in that area. They will not make you do something that is totally out of your range and ability!!

And to answer your question physical therapy is not a lifelong plan per se! They want you well and more able to function - you get out of it what you put into it. I know the feeling of your life spinning out of control - I've felt that many times, but doing something proactive such as PT will help you regain some control - I promise

Please keep in touch and let us know what you decide and how it's going. And good luck!

[aspen]

My PT has been more practical help than any other medical professional in my journey so far. I am a fan, completely. I hope you are able to get the most out of your sessions.

[misslux]

MSLorrie, you have been given great advice by the previous posters.

I can't help but notice though that you seem to see medical professionals as the enemy. They are not. If you want to maintain the mobility you have now, go see a PT for yourself and not just to get your doctors "off your back". They want you to be as well as you can be whether you believe it or not.

Good luck.

[onlyairfare]

Nobody can force you to do PT against your will - or have any other medical treatment for that matter.

But I think the positive reports of PT experiences are typical, not a rare exception, so I'd keep an open mind and expect good results, not torture.

Describe your current work-out regimen and discuss your concerns about "torture" with your PT. He or she will work
with you to develop a program that helps meet your (mutually agreed upon) needs.

[golfore]

I have been to therapy several times. All have been good ones.

As already stated, if you don't like it, speak up!

[dee32baby]

Great out come!

I've had such a good time doing my PT it is not like a Drill Sargent would treat you. They will work with you just make sure you talk to them about you anxiety about doing the therapy with them. If it wasn't for them I would still be in my wheelchair full time and not walking at all. Hang in there it will work out for your best I say if it's being offered to you take it. It could only help.