Before the end of my last session, my Physical Therapist Aide said, "We are all done here, and I…read morehope we don't see you again." Now, before you criticize, let me tell the amazing job they did.
My insurance scheduled 5 sessions with me. The first session was sort of an introduction and assessment of my needs. You know, arrive early to complete paperwork, make payment, and be introduced to the facility.
The front desk secretaries are excellent at their job. They are social, quick, and multi-taskers.
Pro-tip: If you want consistency in your therapy, schedule your sessions ahead of time with the front desk. If possible, don't cancel or reschedule. You are likely to get the same trainers, assistants, and aides, and you can grow with your routine.
I don't recall it being busy in the seating area because there is a Physical Aide Therapist that pops their head out the door to call your name within minutes of checking in with the front desk.
My initial meeting was quick, almost overwhelming, because so much goes on in this one large room. Cardio equipment, seats, massage tables (not the type you get at a spa but the types you see in a sports locker room), and colorful latex bands hanging over equipment. There is also a therapy pool where clients are doing exercises. Lots going on.
There's no lounging around here.
With the exception of the clients and their physical pherapy needs, there is always a Physical Therapist Aide turning off a timer, working with a client (maybe 2 or more at a time), wiping down benches, updating your chart, or standing by while a client is stretching. And by standing by, they are not hovering. They are literally standing a distance away, so you can do your exercise on your own.
Meanwhile, the actual physical therapist (whom you meet initially) is on the side reading notes or heading over to speak with or work with clients. I remember asking my Physical Therapist Aide a question, and he didn't just give me an answer. He said he would ask for me, and the Physical Therapist appeared while I stretched to thoroughly answer my question.
This place is attentive to your needs, and as long as you do your exercises, the healing process will continue. Thus, the reason they hope to not see you again: because you have learned and gone through the therapy to know how to take care of yourself.
And that is what I did.
You go here for therapy, training, and learning. It caters to a variety of clients, including young athletes.
My specific condition is likely to return, but I now know some preventive strategies that will help support me. It's good to know that I can always call to ask questions.