Post-operative physical therapy is a crucial component of the healing process for patients undergoing surgery. It is a specially tailored form of rehabilitation that helps patients regain strength, mobility, and flexibility, and helps them reduce their chances of developing complications or long-term disabilities. In this blog, we will discuss post-op physical therapy, how it helps patients, and what to expect during a post-op therapy session.
All About Post-Op Physical Therapy
What is Post-Op Physical Therapy?
Post-operative physical therapy is a type of rehabilitation patients practice after a surgical procedure. This therapy aims to help patients recover and regain mobility and function in the area that has been operated on. Post-op therapy is tailored to meet the needs of each patient and is designed to help them reach the milestones in their recovery process.
How Does Post-Op Physical Therapy Help Patients?
Post-op physical therapy can help patients recover faster, strengthen their muscles, improve their range of motion, reduce pain, and prevent complications or long-term disabilities. It can also help patients improve their overall health by restoring their physical function and preventing future injuries. Patients who receive post-op physical therapy recover faster, and their chances of developing complications or long-term disabilities are significantly reduced.
What to Expect During a Post-Op Physical Therapy Session?
A typical post-op physical therapy session usually lasts 30 minutes to an hour, depending on the patient's needs. During the session, the therapist will comprehensively evaluate the patient's condition, including the range of movement, strength, and flexibility in the affected area. Based on the evaluation, the therapist will design a therapy plan that includes a variety of exercises, stretches, and activities to help the patient regain their physical function.
Common Surgeries Requiring Post-Op Physical Therapy
There are different types of post-op physical therapy, and the type of therapy a patient undergoes depends on the type of surgery they have had. Some of the most common surgeries that necessitate of post-op physical therapy include:
Total Joint Replacement Surgery
Total joint replacement surgery is often recommended when non-surgical treatments have failed to alleviate chronic joint pain. Post-operative physical therapy is crucial in order to increase strength and mobility in the affected joint. This type of therapy may include exercises, stretches, and joint mobilization techniques.
Spinal Surgery
Physical therapy is essential for individuals who have undergone spinal surgery. Exercises and stretches are often prescribed to help with pain and to increase range of motion. In many cases, a combination of modalities, such as hot/cold therapy and electrical stimulation, can also be employed.
Cardiac Surgery
Physical therapy after cardiac surgery can help improve breathing, decrease pain, and increase overall strength. Therapy is typically aimed at strengthening the chest muscles and increasing endurance through targeted exercises.
ACL Repairs
The anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) is one of the main ligaments in the knee and is commonly injured in sports or physical activity. Surgery to repair a torn ACL is often necessary, and post-operative therapy can help restore strength, balance and agility. Exercises such as squats, lunges, and leg presses can help the individual regain strength in the knee while also improving overall range of motion.
Rotator Cuff Surgery
Following rotator cuff surgery, physical therapy can assist in reducing pain and increasing range of motion. A combination of exercises including stretches, resistance training, and massage can help restore strength and improve overall shoulder function.
Trust the Experts for Post-Op Physical Therapy
Post-op physical therapy is a vital part of the recovery process for patients undergoing surgery. It is a specialized form of rehabilitation that helps patients regain their physical function and prevent complications or long-term disabilities. Patients who practice post-op physical therapy recover faster and have improved mobility, strength, and flexibility. If you have undergone surgery, contact the experts at Physical Therapy Doctor NJ to help you on your road to recovery.
