If you have had surgery and are in your post-operative period of recovery, your doctor may prescribe physical therapy to promote healing and overall well-being. Post-operative therapy plans are structured according to patient-centered therapeutic outcomes. Here are some goals to keep in mind so you return to a healthy and functional state after your surgery.
How Can Post-Operative Therapy Help Me?
This is a good question and one which many doctors and surgeons hear. The primary goal of post-operative therapy is improvement of strength, mobility and function. This is especially important if you have had surgery on a joint or muscle integral to your job or daily function at home or in sports.
Physical therapy sessions will include exercises and stretches specifically designed to target the muscles and tissues which were impacted by the surgery. By following your individualized plan closely with your physical therapist, you can speed up the recovery process and have greater assurance of safety, independence and wellness in the long run.
Furthermore, post-operative therapy helps prevent any potential complications. Surgery can leave scar tissue which can limit range of motion and cause discomfort. Physical therapy breaks down this scar tissue gently, improves circulation and promotes proper healing. With PT, you can prevent long-term issues and complications such as loss of mobility.
In addition, your physical therapist will work you to:
- Manage your postoperative pain, inflammation, and swelling
- Reduce or eliminate your need for heavy pain medications
- Increase your range of motion, coordination and flexibility
- Improve balance and coordination
- Avoid falls and injuries
- Improve task-specific motions (ex. turning a screwdriver, swinging a golf club)
- Increase your independence with ambulating and activities of daily living
- Improve your cardiovascular and muscular endurance
- Improve your safety at home and on the job
How Can I Optimize My Therapy for Best Healing and Improved Overall Health?
At the H2 Health Family, we work with our post-operative physical therapy patients in an encouraging way. What people bring to their physical therapy sessions in terms of mental and emotional attitudes and work ethic goes a long way to speed rehabilitation and healing.
For instance, positivity helps post-operative therapy patients work through and complete their therapy programs. They heal faster and better. So, be sure to do all your exercises and treatments according to your therapist’s instructions. Tell him or her what seems to be working and what does not so your care plan can be adjusted if necessary.
In addition to following your physical therapist’s instructions, there are several other things you can do to optimize your therapy for best healing and improved overall health.
For instance, remember that every patient is unique. You may respond differently to certain PT treatments differently than others who have had similar health issues. Your therapist will work with you to find the approach which is best for you.
In addition to attitude, proper nutrition and rest are vital components of the post-operative healing process. Eating a balanced diet with plenty of lean protein, fruits, and vegetables promotes tissue repair. It also helps patients avoid unwanted weight gain and builds strength. Adequate rest also allows the body time to heal and recover from therapy sessions.
Finally, be persistent in achieving your recovery goals. Begin your physical therapy program as soon as your doctor OKs it.
Attend all your surgeon’s follow-up appointments and your physical therapy sessions at H2 Health. Faithfully complete the exercises and therapies assigned to you to do at home. Stay motivated as you progress through the healing process.
Post-Operative Therapy Near Me
At the H2 Health Family, our professional physical therapy team follows post-operative patients with detailed treatment plans. These plans are evidence-based with active therapies to improve all aspects of movement.
They also include passive therapies, such as ultrasound and massage, to manage pain and increase function. Our therapists help patients after orthopedic, cardiac, GI and other kinds of surgeries.
We would be privileged to help you heal well, too. Please call us at (800) 699-9395 for a full evaluation and treatment plan or request an appointment here.
We have numerous H2 Health locations for your convenience. We look forward to speaking with you soon.
