Recovery from surgery can be just as scary and overwhelming as the operation itself, but with the right support, it doesn’t have to be. Post-operative physical therapy (PT) is a vital part of the recovery process for many different types of surgeries. It can help patients regain strength, flexibility, and mobility after an operation.
5 Benefits Of Outpatient Physical Therapy After Surgery
- Improved Range Of Motion
- Reduced Pain & Inflammation
- Increased Strength & Stability
- Faster Healing Time
- Enhanced Post-Operative Outcomes
Improved Range Of Motion
Physical therapy mainly focuses on improving the flexibility and range of motion in the affected area of your body. This can help you regain your mobility more quickly after an operation. Studies have shown that opting out of PT can lead to a permanent reduction in post-surgical mobility. So, it’s essential to attend your outpatient PT sessions regularly.
Reduced Pain & Inflammation
Many people are afraid to seek physical therapy after surgery for fear of experiencing more pain. While it’s true that PT does cause some short-term muscle soreness and discomfort, you should never feel obligated to perform exercises that cause severe or intolerable pain. By targeting the painful areas with gentle stretches and movements, a custom-tailored PT plan can actually help reduce inflammation and pain.
Improved Strength & Stability
Physical therapy helps you rebuild the strength and stability that you lost due to the operation. As a result, you may be able to avoid further injuries or serious complications later on.
Faster Healing Process
By improving circulation and reducing inflammation, post-surgery physical therapy can potentially speed up the recovery process. This can help you regain a sense of well-being and normalcy as soon as possible.
Enhanced Post-Operative Results
A post-operative physical therapy program can help you regain strength, flexibility, mobility, and self-confidence more quickly. Seeing your own progress positively affects your mental health and may even reduce the risk of developing depression associated with chronic pain and mobility loss.
Surgeries That Usually Require Physical Therapy
- Joint Replacements
- ACL & Meniscus Repairs
- Rotator Cuff Repair
- Back & Neck Surgeries
- Orthopedic Surgery
- Cardiac Surgery
- Foot & Ankle Surgeries
The Dangers Of Skipping PT
If you don’t do post-operative physical therapy, there can be serious consequences. Patients who skip PT have a higher likelihood of suffering from post-surgical complications, such as blood clots or infections. In addition, they may not be able to regain full strength and range of motion after the procedure, which puts them at risk of chronic pain and long-term mobility challenges.
When Should You Start PT After Surgery?
Typically, post-op physical therapy should begin as soon as possible, depending on your doctor’s recommendations. Your medical team may guide you through some gentle PT exercises while you’re still in the hospital. Depending on the procedure’s invasiveness, your outpatient PT could begin anywhere from a couple of days to a month post-op.
Post-Surgical Physical Therapy Near Me
Centennial Sports & Physical Therapy provides high-quality post-operative physical therapy in Spokane, WA. Our expert team of physical therapists can help you recover quickly and effectively from surgery. Get in touch with Centennial Sports & Physical Therapy today.
