Recently, a long time client of mine returned for physical therapy stating she had some aches in her hip and knee but it wasn’t “that painful”. She said she wasn’t as hurt as some of the folks I treat and felt bad about coming to therapy. After further evaluation, we discovered she couldn’t perform certain tasks that she could do the year before. I told her it was good that she came in now instead of waiting for her physical function to decline further. It is important to consider the caring for yourself body as you consider performing the maintenance work on your car. Truthfully, individuals treat their cars better than themselves.

Cars receive regular oil changes, oil and air filters changed, fluid refills, tires rotated and balanced, alignment performed, timing belt changed, annual tune ups and even detailing without a second thought. It is standard care for the automobile. Why? Because you want it to perform well and to avoid a breakdown. How about similar care for your body? Don’t you want your body to perform well? Don’t you wish to avoid illness?

Study after study has demonstrated that preventative health care costs less and reduces risk for a number of preventable diseases. In addition to regular physicals, you should include regular fitness assessments of your physical function, endurance, body chemistry, strength and flexibility. Periodic sessions with your personal trainer are recommended to advance your exercise program. If you never change your fitness program, your body accommodates to it and the strength and endurance won’t improve.

So, take the time to put the right fuel in your body and to do the preventive maintenance so you’ll avoid a breakdown and a towing to the hospital.