Exercise prescription is a crucial technique employed by physiotherapists to instigate behavioral change and motivate patients to become physically active. By tailoring specific routines to the needs, characteristics, and preferences of each individual, physiotherapists can effectively promote physical health and well-being.

Several universities and professional organisations offer Bachelor of Science degree programs in Exercise Sciences, Exercise Physiology, and Kinesiology, which focus extensively on exercise prescription as a fundamental component of rehabilitation and health maintenance.

In this article, we will explore the comprehensive process of exercise prescription, including assessment, inflammation and proliferative phases, goal setting, prescription details, and follow-up. Understanding each of these elements is essential for both practitioners and patients to achieve optimal outcomes in physical therapy.

Assessment

Generally speaking, the physiotherapist will recommend a specific program of activity or exercise that will help the individual rebuild strength, functional mobility and aerobic capacity. This may include cardiovascular exercises, weight-training or other resistance training, a combination of both and/or stretching exercises. They will also provide advice about the duration, intensity and frequency of the activity/exercise or program.

Inflammation and proliferative phase

Exercise prescription in this phase aims to control inflammation and encourage tissue repair through muscle contraction in pain-free range of motion, thus minimising fibrosis formation. This is achieved by applying a gradual increase in load or challenge to tissues. Concomitant regressions in exercise duration, speed and distance are also recommended to ensure healing tissue is not overloaded. This allows the physiotherapist to monitor symptoms for changes in response to exercise and make adjustments accordingly. This can also help to establish a baseline for the individual’s symptom/pain levels to be used as a reference for future comparison.

Goal Setting

The goal setting process involves the physio and patient negotiating goals in a dynamic collaboration. It can be a complex and time-consuming part of the therapy, however, it is an important one that should not be neglected. It can involve a discussion on what the individual wants to achieve through the exercise, their tolerance levels, what they like/dislike, the ability to feel the movement and other factors.

Ultimately the goal is to provide the patient with a goal that is challenging but also attainable. This is to increase the chance of success and build self confidence.

Moreover, effective goal setting in physiotherapy extends beyond just establishing objectives; it also requires ongoing evaluation and adjustment. Regular reassessment allows both the physiotherapist and the patient to track progress, modify goals as needed, and celebrate milestones achieved along the way. This iterative process not only enhances motivation but also ensures that the therapy remains aligned with the patient’s evolving needs and capabilities, fostering a supportive and empowering therapeutic relationship.

Prescription

Like a prescription for medication, a written exercise prescription spells out exactly what type of exercises to perform, how often and for how long. It also outlines the therapeutic goal of the regimen and how it should be progressed over time.

The physiotherapists at Excel Body & Health Clinic are well versed in exercise physiology and use their expertise to evaluate each individual client and craft a personalised plan. Their knowledge empowers them to select movements that will stimulate muscle groups crucial for stabilisation, enhance mobility and improve circulation.

Often, they’ll recommend a combination of modalities, such as manual therapy, alongside exercise. This augments the healing effect of a pure exercise-based approach and helps patients feel more empowered in their recovery. Research has demonstrated that routine physical activity has a positive impact on many health-related outcomes and can help prevent the development of over 25 chronic diseases. This makes it a critical part of the healthcare system, yet many physicians don’t offer exercise prescription as a treatment option.

Follow-Up

A physiotherapist will keep an open line of communication with you and provide regular check-ins to make sure you are progressing well. Your therapist will be able to assess your level of fitness and create an ongoing fitness and wellness plan for you.

The duration of exercise intervention varied between studies, with some testing short-term interventions of less than 6 months (n = 7 studies), and others measuring longer-term exercise programmes of up to 12 months (n = 9 studies). Trained physiotherapists blinded to study group allocation assessed the outcomes at baseline, the end of the exercise programme (3 months) and at follow-up (6 months).

Regular physiotherapy exercises strengthen the muscles that support the injured area. In addition, they improve stability, balance and proprioception. These changes help to reduce the risk of injury and increase your confidence in daily activities.

Promoting Health Through Exercise

In conclusion, exercise prescription is a vital component of physiotherapy that involves a systematic and personalised approach to promoting physical activity and health. By conducting thorough assessments and understanding the unique needs of each patient, physiotherapists can design effective exercise programs that aid in recovery, enhance functional mobility, and improve overall well-being. The integration of goal setting, tailored exercise plans, and regular follow-up ensures that patients are engaged, motivated, and progressing toward their health goals. As research continues to support the numerous benefits of regular physical activity, the role of exercise prescription in healthcare becomes increasingly significant, underscoring its importance in both preventive and rehabilitative care.