Are you wondering how important physical therapy is in recovering from orthopedic surgery? If you have a procedure scheduled–or even if you’re just considering one–you probably have spent some time thinking about the lengthy rehabilitation time and whether physical therapy is even necessary.
The short answer is: Yes, it is. Physical therapy is a crucial aspect of recovering from orthopedic surgery. Investing in your post-operative physical therapy will help you maximize your recovery and reduce the risk that you’ll develop chronic pain or immobility.
At Sterling Physical Therapy & Wellness, we’re here to guide you through the process, helping make sure you reap all the benefits of post-surgical physical therapy. Curious what those benefits are? Keep reading to find out!
Why You Need Physical Therapy when Recovering from Orthopedic Surgery
When you leave the hospital after your surgery, you’ll be dealing with several post-procedure symptoms, including pain, restricted mobility, and reduced muscle strength. Our goal is to help you overcome those symptoms so you can fully experience the positive outcomes of your surgery.
Here are just a few of the benefits you can expect:
- Drug-free pain management. There’s no denying that orthopedic surgery is painful, but physical therapy offers an alternative to long-term pharmaceutical use. Manual therapy techniques use a hands-on approach to reduce pain, promote blood circulation, and get you started on your mobility work.
- Guidance on mobility aids and medical equipment: Using a crutch, brace, or sling after surgery? We’ll help you use it correctly, keeping you safe from injury–and also ensuring you don’t delay your rehabilitation by overusing assistive devices.
- An expert’s guidance on which movements to do and which to avoid. The earlier you can start moving your affected joint, the less likely you are to develop scar tissue that can cause pain and mobility restrictions down the line. However, you don’t want to do too much too soon! Our physical therapists will provide you with appropriate exercises for those early days after surgery.
- Customized strength and functional training. As you progress through your recovery, you’ll need to start restoring strength and functionality in your affected joint. We’ll create a customized program that addresses your physical needs and long-term goals. For example, some older patients may need help with gait and balance, while an injured athlete may want sport-specific training.
- Comprehensive information about recovering from orthopedic surgery. Surgery’s scary, no matter how much you prepare for it. Our physical therapists can help you understand recovery timelines, warning signs, and rehabilitation wins.
We’re Here to Help
If you live in Bellaire, TX and know you’ll need orthopedic surgery soon, request an appointment at Sterling Physical Therapy & Wellness to learn more about the benefits of post-operative physical therapy.
Our experts can let you know what to expect and help you prepare for your surgery. And when it’s time to begin outpatient therapy, contact us we’ll be waiting for you!
