Dealing with an injury + finding the right practitioner

This topic is not simple. And I don’t wish to oversimplify. But I do wish to encourage you with all the ability you have, to be an advocate for your health (regardless of if you have an injury). I’ve had amazing doctors (also in the form of PT’s and chiros), but first, I had doctors who said “just don’t do x” – Oh cool so just don’t squat…forever? For a few weeks? What’s the endgame here?

Before I make my two points, this post is not medical advice, and you need to consult with your doctor before taking any action regarding injury.

That in fact, leads to perhaps the roughest part of this journey. Please know that if you’re dealing with an injury now, or have in the past, I feel for you. Finding professionals who can get you back to doing what you love (lifting weights) can be quite the task. A task that takes time, and money.

I want you to take a few things from this:

Most practitioners don’t lift

1️⃣ Most physical therapists and chiropractors don’t lift and/or aren’t familiar with lifting weights. It’s an issue in my opinion, that goes all the way back to their schooling. Fun fact – I interned at a rehab clinic as a performance coach bridging the gap between physical therapy and return to sport. I always said “I wish I had the schooling of a physical therapist but could use it as a trainer, or in a training setting.” In my eyes (which could be 500% faulty) this is needed in the PT world on a much larger scale.

It will take time

2️⃣ It will take time to find a doc that empowers you. Client efficacy is so important in the rehab process. Ask questions. Be curious. You’re allowed this! If you’re unsatisfied with the answers, call around, do some research, ask friends for referrals.

Like I said, it takes time. Not everyone has that. But if you do, know that you don’t have to take the first doc you’re assigned to. You don’t have to have a degree in sport science to be an advocate for yourself. If you have access to healthcare, use the whole damn spectrum my friend. You’re more than welcome to take “just stop squatting” for an answer. But it’s likely not the only answer out there.

I had a chiro who literally trained me the whole session. When I say train, I mean there was no popping of the vertebrae – we did mobility drills, core work, and it blew my freaking mind. THIS is what chiropractic work can be?! Yes. Yes it can. Only needed to see him three times, as he supplied me with the tools I needed to get back under the barbell. Clearly, changed my whole perspective on what a chiro could be.

Whether you need a physical therapist, chiro or some other professional – even a masseuse – stay in it for the long haul. It’s so worth it when you find practitioners who get what you’re wanting.

Join my mailing list for weekly blog and podcast updates. You may or may not get VIP discounts as well. Just saying. Join the fam!