Get Right Physio

Why Goals Fail and Systems Win: 4 Common Myths About Physiotherapy

It’s not too late to ring in 2025 the (Get) Right (Physio) way

New year, new me, that’s how the saying goes, right? 

Maybe for some but for my husband for example, he’s a proponent of creating and nurturing systems instead of setting goals, because goals create momentary change while systems create life-long change.

 

A Timely Display of Goals Being Ineffective

For example, if you’ve been to the gym recently, you’ve probably noticed an influx of people at your local gym trying to realize their resolutions. However, data (and simple observation, especially if you’re a frequent gym goer) shows this likely won’t stick.

A 2023 survey indicated that Canadians set an average of 1.7 resolutions each year, but 68.6% fail to maintain them (often due to a lack of motivation or setting unrealistic goals)¹. Moreover, additional research indicates that 12% of new gym memberships start every January but 50% of new members quit within the first six months of the year².

Creating systems is better than setting goals; and the same concept applies to physiotherapy. Goals are essential for short term success, but systems truly enhance your overall well-being in the long run. More importantly, it helps ensure you maintain both consistency and progress.

With that said, several myths surround physiotherapy and since the new year is upon us, I’d like to debunk a few of them with you. Whether you’re already a regular physio patient, or on the fence about becoming one, here are some tips for creating systems that help you maintain consistency to achieve greater well-being.

 

Myth 1: Physiotherapy Is Only For Injuries Or Accidents

Many people only visit a doctor once a serious health condition arises and physiotherapy is (unfortunately) viewed similarly. But contrary to popular belief, it isn’t only beneficial to injury recovery – it’s also key to preventing them.

Whether you’re an athlete looking to optimize performance, someone with a desk job aiming to improve posture, or a senior citizen striving to manage the niggles that accompany aging, physiotherapy is an all-in-one solution you can truly rely on.

So, instead of focusing on recovering from an injury as a short-term goal, build a system for ongoing care. Seek out a qualified physio to incorporate stretches or strength-building exercises into your daily routine, among other techniques, to accomplish this.

 

Myth 2: Physio Is Ineffective For Long-Term Or Chronic Conditions

According to OHS Canada, nearly half (45.1%) of Canadians have at least one major chronic condition³. And (unfortunately – again), many believe physiotherapy only offers temporary relief. However, it’s effective in managing chronic conditions like arthritis, back pain, or even long-term neurological disorders. By working with a physio to develop a tailored plan and integrating it into your lifestyle, you can develop a structured, systematic approach to yield long-term success.

 

Myth 3: Rest Is Better Than Movement For Recovery

In the same way that overtraining can lead to worse performance or even injuries, too much rest is also detrimental to your overall well-being. While rest has its place, prolonged inactivity often worsens recovery times. Movement, under professional guidance, promotes healing by increasing blood flow, decreases secondary complications related to disuse, and keeps affected areas engaged. An experienced physio can help you develop a system that includes gentle, regular activity to foster recovery as opposed to you simply “waiting it out” as a goal.

 

Myth 4: You Need A Doctor’s Referral To See A Physiotherapist

This misconception often deters people from seeking timely care. Truthfully, you can book an appointment with a physiotherapist directly (physiotherapists are primary care in the province of Ontario)- and they can even come to your home if that’s easier for you (wink wink, nudge nudge).

Instead of waiting for the right moment to make life changes (like so many of us do every year), don’t let red tape be your excuse; set up a system where you proactively seek professional help when needed rather than waiting for complications to arise.

 

Systems Beat Goals Every Time

In essence, systems provide structure, create habits, and ensure longevity in ways that singular objectives can’t.

As you step further into the new year, consider how you can build frameworks to support continuous progress – and maybe save a little room for error, too. After all, systems allow for flexibility, while goals often crumble under the weight of perfection.

If you’re struggling to create larger systems that help you achieve smaller goals, reach out to ring in 2025 the Get Right Physio way.

  1. https://time2play.com/ca-en/blog/new-years-2023-resolutions/
  2. https://www.fitnessondemand247.com/news/gym-membership-statistics-you-should-know-in-2024
  3. https://www.ohscanada.com/sponsored/mitigating-the-impact-of-chronic-diseases-in-the-workplace/