Treatment is prescribed in phases with different goals and protocols. After the initial evaluation when it is determined that care is appropriate the first phase of treatment is called the initial active phase (trial period). With success in this phase patients move to the second phase, the middle resolving period (conclusion of active phase of care) before being discharged from treatment feeling better. After discharge some conditions may require monitoring (supportive care), while other conditions may never return (as needed care). The success of as needed care is often a factor ddependent on patient compliance to home stretching and exercise or avoidance of whatever event led to the initial injury.
Treatment in general can be thought of as having a building cumulative effect. In the initial active phase (trial period) this effect is best achieved by three treatments/adjustments per week in most cases. During the middle resolving period (the conclusion of active care), this building effect is best achieved by one to two treatments per week in most cases. The end of the middle resolving period results in the end of active care and patient discharge.
People respond to treatment at different rates. The most basic way to understand this concept is to remember that each individual seeking care is different. For example, in one case the person seeking care might be younger, in better shape, and have a more recent/newer injury which typically results in a more speedy recovery. While on the other hand, aanother individual might be older/more advanced in years, not quite the athlete they once were, and have a problem that has been an issue for some time, typically this person may not recover as quickly or as fully. During your review of findings after the examination Dr. Virusky will go over this information and concept with you to help set your personal recovery expectation.
This flow chart below looks to put together in an easy to understand format reviewing the information described above.
