In preparation for Physical Therapy school I needed to take a myriad of science courses, physics was included in this bundle. I have always been fascinated by physics and the laws that govern motion of objects. As I moved into physical therapy school and further into my career, Newton’s First law continues to really speak to me: An object will remain at rest or in uniform motion unless acted on by an outside force. Yes, I am paraphrasing a little bit but stay with me.
An object in motion will stay in motion. To translate this law of physics to Physical Therapy think of it as a person who continues to exercise and be active will remain that way unless acted on by an outside force ie: injury, surgery, etc. An object at rest will stay at rest unless acted on by an outside force ie: chronic health condition ( hypertension, Type 2 Diabetes, chronic pain) that is now impacting their ability to be active and complete the activities they would like. So, if you followed me, a physical therapist is a great advocate of Newton’s first law.
After a period of inactivity, even brief one, your body will adapt to “remaining at rest unless acted on by an outside force” and will begin to relatively decondition itself. This phenomena is not dependent on the reason a person needs to remain at rest, your body doesn’t really care what the reason is! When it is time to return to activity, people can be eager and jump right in to their previous level of participation. Some individuals are able to return to their previous level of activity with little assistance, others will require more time and effort to regain function. These are two situations that would greatly benefit from interventions by a physical therapist. Or any time a person is looking to get more active, or increase activity in an already active liftstyle, a Physical Therapist is a great health care professional to have on your team.
Here at Movement By Taryn I am well equipped to get you and your loved ones to execute Newton’s First Law at their highest level. Whether it means making a comeback after a trauma or getting back on your feet to manage a chronic disease that is affecting your health, I have the ability to aide in your recovery.
