How physical therapy can help you get moving again
As tempting as it might be to stay in bed following your joint surgery, you need to start working on your rehabilitation as soon as you can.
- Research shows that patients who undergo physical therapy were better at balancing, getting out of chairs, climbing stairs, and walking than patients who just received standard postoperative care. Your personalized physical therapy plan may consist of:
- Range of motion exercises – Exercises to restore your range of motion are critically important, not only for helping your new joint enjoy optimal function but also for helping to prevent adhesions.
- Strength and balance training – Our physical therapy center can prescribe strength training to help you rebuild damaged or atrophied muscles. Neuromuscular re-education exercises can help you regain weight-bearing joint stability.
- Massage therapy – Massage therapy boosts blood flow and drainage in tissues following surgery. It can also keep the tissue loose and limber while reducing scar tissue formation.
- Heat and cold treatments – Applications of heat or cold can control post-operative swelling, ease inflammation, and relieve pain.
Training on assistive devices – Over the course of your recuperation, you may have to depend on assistive devices such as crutches or canes. Your physical therapy regimen can include training on how to use these devices safely and efficiently.
Your physical therapist will use their expert knowledge to determine what your treatment plan will look like and take into account factors such as your age, source of injury, and current fitness level.