The Importance of Post-Surgery Physical Therapy

Recovering from surgery, no matter how serious, is always difficult. While the long-term effects of surgery are often positive, you may experience pain, discomfort, and immobility shortly after your surgery that can be hard to manage. To ease this pain and speed up the recovery process, more and more doctors are recommending that patients see a physical therapist post-surgery.

What is a Physical Therapist?

Like many other health care providers, physical therapists go through extensive training and education to become licensed.  As medical professionals, they can assist patients in restoring their range of motion, strength, and activity after a surgical procedure. Physical therapists have the knowledge and expertise to examine your condition and create a plan specifically tailored to your needs. 

What are the Benefits of Post-Surgery Physical Therapy?

Physical therapy is an important tool during recovery post-surgery.  Through the advice of an experienced therapist, you can achieve a faster recovery and can attain a more favorable outcome.  Some other benefits of physical therapy include: 

• Lowers the Risk of Post-Surgical Complications, Including Infections. 

• Manages Pain without Opioids or Drugs. 

• Provides Clear Vision of Post-Surgical Milestones 

What Should I Expect From Physical Therapy?

Since everyone’s needs and reasons for coming to physical therapy are different, everyone will get a different path of treatment when going to physical therapy. Your physical therapist will examine you, go over your medical and surgical history, and create a program of treatment that is tailored exactly for you. After your initial appointment, your treatment may consist of things like:

• Manual Joint and Soft Tissue Mobilization

• Stretching

• Strengthening Exercises 

• Walking and Low-Impact Cardio

• Electrical Stimulation

• Ultrasound

• Heat and Ice Application

• Education and Advice in Self-Management 

• Instruction for Ongoing Home Exercise Program

At Next Step Rehabilitation, you can expect professional, personal, and kind care during your physical therapy sessions. No matter what your reason is for coming in, our experienced and skilled physical therapists are devoted to their patients and will create a recovery program perfect for you. With 2 locations across Pinellas County, we promise to be here for you every step of the way of your physical therapy journey. For more information or to set up an appointment, fill out a contact form or give us a call at (727) 345-3346 or (727) 209-0579. 

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Sources: 

https://www.risephysicaltherapy.com/blog/the-role-of-physical-therapy-in-pre-and-post-op-care

https://www.countrysideortho.com/why-is-physical-therapy-important-after-surgery/

https://magnoliatherapyla.com/physical-therapy-important-surgery/#:~:text=Physical%20therapy%20is%20a%20vital,excessive%20use%20of%20prescription%20narcotics