Recovering from surgery takes time and patience, especially if it involves the musculoskeletal system. After the operation, your body may not be strong enough to work on its own, and that’s where physical therapy comes in.
Orthopedic physical therapy is a specialty within physical therapy that focuses on the musculoskeletal system, particularly after surgery.
Here’s a brief understanding of physical therapy and the importance of orthopedic physical therapy in post-surgical rehabilitation. Additionally, we will also talk about what it is like to work with an orthopedic physical therapist.
What is Orthopedic Physical Therapy?
Orthopedic physical therapy is a specialty within the field of physical therapy that focuses on treating conditions affecting the musculoskeletal system, which comprises muscles, bones, joints, ligaments, and tendons.
Orthopedic therapists are skilled in diagnosing, managing, and treating injuries and disorders that impede the body’s ability to move and function effectively.
The Importance of Orthopedic Physical Therapy in Post-Surgical Rehabilitation
When a patient undergoes surgery, particularly orthopedic surgery, it often leads to immobilization and inactivity. This can result in muscle weakness, joint stiffness, impaired balance, and reduced endurance.
To combat these issues and facilitate a successful recovery, orthopedic physical therapy is typically recommended. Here is how orthopedic physical therapy helps with post-surgical rehabilitation.
Easing Pain and Inflammation
After orthopedic surgery, it’s common to experience pain and inflammation in the affected area. This pain can be a significant obstacle to recovery.
An orthopedic physical therapist can help reduce pain and swelling through various techniques such as heat and cold therapy, electrical stimulation, and exercise. They can also provide pain management strategies to help you manage the pain during recovery.
Restoring Mobility and Flexibility
One of the primary goals of orthopedic physical therapy post-surgery is to assist patients in regaining mobility and flexibility.
An orthopedic physical therapist can design an exercise program tailored to your specific needs and goals to help restore your range of motion and mobility. They can also help stretch your muscles and joints to increase your flexibility.
Strengthening Muscles
Surgery can often result in muscle weakness in the affected area. Orthopedic physical therapy can help strengthen the muscles through resistance exercises and weight training.
By gradually increasing the resistance and weight over time, orthopedic physical therapy can help you regain muscle strength and reduce the risk of future injuries.
Preventing Scar Tissue Formation
Post-surgical rehabilitation also involves preventing scar tissue formation, a common side effect of immobilization after an orthopedic surgery.
An orthopedic physical therapist can use massage techniques and specific exercises to help break down scar tissue and prevent its formation. This can help improve joint and muscle mobility, reduce pain, and prevent the need for future surgeries.
Improving Overall Function
Orthopedic physical therapy can also help improve your overall function. By restoring mobility, flexibility, and muscle strength, you’ll be able to perform daily activities after orthopedic surgery easily.
Additionally, an orthopedic physical therapist can educate you on proper body mechanics and posture, which can help prevent future injuries.
Working with an Orthopedic Physical Therapist
Immediately following orthopedic surgery like hip replacement, knee replacement, knee arthroscopy, or rotator cuff repair, the patient works with an orthopedic physical therapist. The therapist assesses the patient’s current condition, including mobility, strength, balance, and pain levels. They also review the patient’s medical history and surgical details.
Based on the initial evaluation, the therapist designs a personalized treatment plan that addresses the patient’s specific needs and recovery goals. This plan typically includes a combination of manual therapy, therapeutic exercises, and education about self-care and injury prevention.
The patient then engages in regular therapy sessions, during which the therapist guides them through the prescribed exercises and treatments. The therapist continually assesses the patient’s progress and adjusts the treatment plan as necessary.
Once the patient has achieved their rehabilitation goals, they are discharged from therapy. However, the therapist usually provides a home exercise program and advice on maintaining the improvements gained during therapy.
Orthopedic Physical Therapy in Jacksonville, FL
Orthopedic physical therapy is a crucial part of post-surgical rehabilitation, helping patients regain their independence and improve their quality of life. Whether you have undergone joint replacement or rotator cuff surgery, working with an experienced orthopedic physical therapist can help you recover faster and more effectively.
At H2 Health, we offer a range of services, including orthopedic physical therapy, to help you achieve your rehabilitation goals. In addition to orthopedic physical therapy, we also offer speech therapy, occupational therapy, aquatic therapy, sports medicine services, and much more.
For more information, call us today at (800) 699-9395 or request an appointment here via our online form. We look forward to serving you!
