Embrace the Calm: Discover Restorative Therapy Today
Restorative therapy is a type of rehabilitation that focuses on helping patients achieve optimal function and independence. It differs from traditional rehabilitation in that it emphasizes the body’s natural healing capacity while providing gentle guidance to help facilitate this process. With restorative therapy, patients are empowered to take an active role in their treatment plan, resulting in the maintenance of physical function for independent living.
Through the use of specialized techniques such as stretching exercises, adaptive equipment, and therapeutic activities, restorative therapy can help those recovering from injury or illness regain strength, flexibility, and balance.
By embracing a holistic approach to health care, restorative therapy helps individuals not only recover physical function but also improve emotional and mental well-being.
Understanding Restorative Therapy
Restorative therapy has its roots in ancient healing practices such as yoga and meditation. In modern times, it has grown to encompass a variety of techniques that focus on restoring physical, mental, and emotional well-being.
At the core of restorative therapy is the idea that the human body can heal itself with the right guidance. For example, the belief that injury to the CNS system is irreparable is slowly being debunked, and taking its place is the idea that the CNS can repair itself with neurological stimulation due to neuroplasticity.
Through collaborative care, restorative therapists work together with patients to create tailored treatment plans that take into account the individual’s unique needs and goals.
Different forms of restorative therapy include traditional physical therapy, therapeutic exercise, adaptive equipment, occupational therapy, massage therapy, relaxation techniques, yoga, acupuncture, and tai chi. All of these modalities can be used in combination to achieve optimal results.
A research article done by Developmental Disabilities Research Reviews reported that today, we can envision a future where the nervous system is repairable with the help of rehabilitative interventions. This possibility offers us new hope for managing and repairing previously untreatable disorders.
How Restorative Therapy Works
Physical therapists use techniques such as stretching, strengthening, and mobilization to improve a patient’s physical functioning.
In fact, studies suggest that a patient that received neurological damage should receive physical-based restorative therapy that stimulates the neurological levels located above and below the level of injury.
Similarly, a patient who suffers from mechanical chronic lower back pain can find relief with ReActiv8. ReActiv8 is a restorative therapy that combats pain and improves function by stimulating the nerves of your multifidus muscle. Patients who took ReActiv8 reported a transformative experience, with 78% stating to be “definitely satisfied” with the treatment.
Occupational therapists also help patients to relearn everyday tasks such as dressing or cooking that may have been lost due to injury or illness.
Adaptive equipment such as strollers can also be utilized to improve mobility and independence. Massage therapy can help reduce pain, relieve stress, and improve circulation. Also, relaxation techniques such as deep breathing or guided imagery can help the patient relax while visualizing their recovery.
Finally, simply conversing with peers outdoors, playing board games, and watering the plants are effective restorative therapies to reduce anxiety and depression and improve mental agility.
The Benefits of Restorative Therapy
The benefits of restorative therapy are numerous and they cover all aspects of the human experience.
Physical Benefits
Simply moving and exercising can help to increase muscle strength, balance, joint mobility and stability, coordination, and balance. Specialized exercises can also help improve posture, gait, and body mechanics. Plus, with the help of occupational therapy, patients can regain their strength and independence when it comes to routine activities.
Mental Benefits
Similar to physical ailments, mental issues such as stress and anxiety can take a toll on the body. Restorative therapies can help to reduce stress and anxiety while also providing relief from depression and other mental health issues. Plus, patients who are gradually regaining their independence are found to have a boost in their confidence levels, resulting in an improved mental state.
Emotional Benefits
Patients who receive restorative therapy often report feeling more optimistic about their lives. This is because their self-esteem is boosted by the progress they are making in physical therapy. Plus, restorative therapies can help to reduce pain and discomfort, resulting in an improved mental state.
Spiritual Benefits
Restorative therapies promote a sense of inner peace and contentment. This can be attributed to the relaxation techniques used in restorative therapy, which help to center and ground the individual. Additionally, restorative therapies can help to reconnect the patient with their spiritual side, allowing them to explore and discover new aspects of themselves.
Incorporating Restorative Therapy into Your Life
Restorative therapy can be a valuable tool for overall health and well-being. Here are some tips to make it a part of your daily routine.
Tips for Making Restorative Therapy a Habit
1. Create a Restorative Therapy Plan
With the help of a trained medical professional, make a list of all the restorative therapies you would like to incorporate into your daily routine. This plan can help keep you on track so that you stay committed to your goals.
2. Set Aside Time for Restorative Therapy
Invest in your health by setting aside time every day to practice restorative therapy. A dedicated 30-minute session can help keep you accountable and motivated.
3. Develop a Support Network
Surrounding yourself with people who understand the importance of restorative therapy will help motivate and inspire you along your journey. This support network can include your medical doctor, physical therapist, and trusted family and friends.
Recommended Frequency for Practicing Restorative Therapy
The frequency of restorative therapy sessions should be discussed with a medical professional and will vary depending on the individual and their condition. Generally, it is recommended that restorative therapy be practiced at least 5-6 times a week for 15 minutes a day for maximum benefit.
Conclusion: Restorative Treatment for Your Low Back Pain
Restorative therapy is an effective method for improving and maintaining function. It has numerous physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual benefits that can help improve overall health and well-being.
With the right tips and support, incorporating restorative therapy into your life can become a habit that will result in long-term pain relief.
If you suffer from chronic mechanical lower back pain, learn more about ReActiv8 to start your journey toward living pain-free!