How do I understand the words my physical therapist uses?
Ask for the exact word, a plain meaning and a clear example.
Physical therapy can use movement, exercise or hands-on care to help with a problem.
For example, manual therapy is hands-on care. The therapist may use massage or help a joint move. The term does not name one fixed treatment.
Ask what the word means in your own plan. An AI reply cannot tell you which exercise or how much of it suits you.
- Ask for the exact term in writing.
- Ask what it means for your goal.
- For an exercise, ask to be shown how to do it. Ask for written steps too.
- Check how much to do and when to stop or seek help.
- Check any AI meaning with your care team.
Explain the term manual therapy in two plain sentences. Do not choose care for me or tell me how to do it. I will check the meaning with my care team.
Paste the message into ChatGPT, then fill in any blanks before you send it. ChatGPT opens in a new tab. Opening it does not send the message.
Ask about an unclear step before you try it. Keep the exact plan your care team gave you.
Sources and more help
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