Physical therapy is an important part of injury recovery, but it is only one part of the puzzle. So much of what a patient does outside the confines of the therapy office has a significant impact on their overall recovery, including sleep. Known as the body's natural restoration and recovery aid, sleep is essential if you plan to get the most from your physical therapy treatment; learn why.

Impact of Physical Therapy

Whether it is an injury that involves a broken bone or a neurological issue, such as a stroke, physical therapy is a treatment intervention aimed at guiding patients toward recovery. However, the most important word to remember is guide. The human body is unique in that it is equipped with several mechanisms that essentially allow it to heal itself. 

While the therapist will guide you on this path, these mechanisms must activate and respond correctly. Sleep is important because it activates the systems that help your body heal and recover from stress, including physical injury. As a result, the less sleep a person gets, the less equipped their body is to fight and the less energy they have to give during therapy.

Long-Term Health Consequences

Particularly for those patients who are seeking therapy for more severe concerns, such as stroke recovery, adequate rest is vital. When an individual has a stroke, there is often an increased likelihood that they already struggle with a chronic health condition, such as high blood pressure. 

Add in the fact that sleep deprivation can elevate your blood pressure, and the risk of a repeat stroke can increase. Physical therapy can help you recover from the medical condition and lead a more fulfilling life, and sleep can help you avoid certain illnesses. Together, they can help you feel better. 

Improving Your Sleep

Fortunately, there are some things you can do to improve your sleep. First, make sure you give your all during your therapy sessions. Therapy sessions require you to give your all physically, which can help tire you and make you sleepier. 

It is also worth noting that you can speak directly to your therapist. For example, if pain after your therapy session is keeping you up at night, the therapist can adjust your regimen to help reduce this concern. The therapist may also be able to share some relaxation tips that you can use to ensure you get a more restful sleep.

If you have trouble sleeping at night, make sure you speak up. Your physical therapist can help get to the root of the problem so that you can rest better and recover faster.