PT Handbook: Take Control

Do you feel in charge?

Author

Dr. Gerry Robles PT, DPT
November 14, 2024

Welcome! The PT Handbook is a physical therapy newsletter discussing all things physical therapy/sports medicine. This newsletter is an extension of our philosophy at Art of PT Sports Physical Therapy LLC where our patient population includes combat athletes and gym lovers. We are a PT private practice that prides itself on providing true one on one service.

This handbook will provide practical PT tips and dive into hot topics surrounding the sports rehab world. If you have questions about the field of physical therapy or need to schedule an appointment (virtual/in person), contact us with the link below!

Dr. Gerry Robles PT, DPT

Founder, Art of PT Sports Physical Therapy LLC

PT Handbook Conversation: Internal Locus of Control vs External Locus of Control

Do you feel in charge? (name that movie). In all seriousness, a systematic review in 2022 (linked below) showed patient’s who exhibit more of an internal locus of control had more favorable outcomes when it came to their PT treatments. What is Locus of Control? There is external and internal. “Locus of control” is a psychological concept that describes how someone judges events according to whether the person sees them to be a consequence of or changeable by their own behavior (internal locus) or by that of others, or chance (external locus). In other words, are you someone who is affected too much by external factors or someone who takes accountability and adapts?

To the shock of no one, this study identified how people with an INTERNAL LOCUS OF CONTROL had better outcomes with their physical therapy treatment and pain. The main reason I bring this up in regards to physical therapy/pain is because people depend too much on healthcare providers (weird coming from a healthcare provider right?). They think they will go somewhere, get fixed and it’s done. Instead of thinking of it as more of a team effort and a PROCESS (like life in general is). Obviously, seek out treatment when in pain, however don’t solely base your outcomes on the healthcare professional. You need to do the work as well. Take charge of your pain and do it under the guidance of your physical therapist. They will play their part, however in the end you need to believe you can change your pain and also work to lessen it.

This feels like more of a psychology newsletter sometimes doesn’t it? ;) Oh that’s right pain is more than just tissue damage…

Until Next Time,

Dr. Gerry Robles PT, DPT

Founder, Art of PT Sports Physical Therapy LLC