In the world of healthcare, physical therapy often gets labeled as a one-size-fits-all solution for pain or injury recovery. But according to Dr. Jordan Sudberg, a renowned pain management specialist, that mindset limits what physical therapy can truly offer.
“Physical therapy shouldn’t be about checking boxes—it should be about helping patients return to what matters most in their lives,” says Sudberg.
With decades of experience in pain management and rehabilitation, Sudberg has worked closely with physical therapists to develop personalized, goal-driven plans for his patients. His belief? When therapy is aligned with a patient’s personal goals—whether it’s walking pain-free, returning to sports, or simply playing with their grandchildren—it becomes far more effective and empowering.
Moving Beyond the Basics
Physical therapy is traditionally viewed as a protocol-based system: you injure a muscle, joint, or nerve, and follow a prescribed sequence of stretches and strength exercises. While this approach can work for basic injuries, it often misses the mark for those dealing with chronic pain, post-surgical recovery, or long-term mobility issues.
“Not every patient wants to run a marathon,” Sudberg explains. “Some want to lift their child without pain. Others want to garden, dance, or sit comfortably at work. Their goals should guide the entire rehab journey.”
Sudberg emphasizes that tailoring physical therapy to match individual goals leads to better motivation, stronger outcomes, and longer-lasting results.
Why Goals Matter in Physical Therapy
Jordan Sudberg outlines several critical reasons why patient-specific goals should shape any effective therapy plan:
- Motivation
When a patient is working toward a meaningful goal—like returning to their favorite activity or regaining independence—they’re far more likely to stay committed to the process. - Measurable Progress
Specific goals allow therapists and physicians to track real-world improvements, not just clinical benchmarks. - Patient Empowerment
When therapy aligns with personal ambitions, patients take greater ownership of their recovery. - Mental and Emotional Wellness
Seeing tangible improvements in quality of life builds confidence and helps reduce the anxiety that often accompanies chronic pain or physical limitations.
Real-Life Examples from the Clinic
Sudberg recalls a patient recovering from spinal surgery who initially struggled to engage in physical therapy. When asked what mattered most to her, she answered, “I want to walk my dog in the park again.” That simple but powerful goal became the foundation of her rehab program.
“We worked with her physical therapist to simulate the terrain of the park, improve endurance, and build the confidence she needed,” Sudberg shares. “The first time she completed that walk on her own, it was more powerful than any MRI result.”
In another case, a former athlete was dealing with chronic knee pain and depression from being sidelined. His goal was to return to the basketball court, even if just for casual games. His therapy plan involved agility drills, sports-specific movement, and gradual reconditioning—tailored to his athletic past and mental health needs.
The Role of the Pain Management Specialist
As a pain management physician, Jordan Sudberg doesn’t just treat discomfort—he works collaboratively with physical therapists to align medical interventions with therapeutic goals. This integrative approach ensures that treatments like injections, medications, or regenerative therapies support functional recovery, not just temporary relief.
“Pain is complex. Managing it successfully means combining science with strategy—and that strategy should always center on the patient’s life goals,” Sudberg says.
He also emphasizes ongoing communication between doctor, therapist, and patient. Regular check-ins help ensure that the plan stays relevant, safe, and effective as the patient progresses.
Tips for Patients: How to Advocate for Goal-Based Therapy
Sudberg encourages patients to take an active role in their treatment by:
- Clearly stating what you want to get back to doing
- Discussing short-term and long-term goals with your therapist and doctor
- Asking how each part of your plan supports those goals
- Requesting modifications if something isn’t working
- Celebrating small wins along the way
“The more a patient feels seen and heard in their treatment plan, the more likely they are to heal fully and stay pain-free,” Sudberg affirms.
Final Thoughts: Therapy That Works for You
Jordan Sudberg’s approach to pain management through goal-oriented physical therapy offers a compelling blueprint for both patients and providers. Recovery isn’t just about range of motion or pain scores—it’s about regaining the parts of life that pain has taken away.
“When we make recovery personal, we make it powerful,” Sudberg concludes. “And that’s how we turn physical therapy into transformation.”