Modern surgical knowledge and technology is largely considered one of the great achievements of modern medicine. Many injuries and conditions that could have been fatal in the not-too-distant past can often be dealt with through relatively common surgical procedures today. Surgery has undoubtedly provided a tremendous amount of benefit to our modern world.
As is the case with anything that provides a benefit, there are costs associated with surgery. Depending on the type of surgical procedure, it will often be followed by a period of recovery – sometimes long and difficult. This is where physical therapy can play a crucial role in helping you recover the strength, mobility and function that can be lost during and immediately following surgical interventions.
The Importance of Post-Surgical Rehabilitation
While surgery can be necessary in some cases, and recommended in many others, it can have some serious negative impacts on your body. These negative impacts can include muscle loss (atrophy), stiffness, and pain. Rehabilitation is essential for optimizing your recovery. To get back to your normal life as quickly and comfortably as possible, you want to recover the strength, flexibility, and function that was compromised during your surgery. Further, delaying rehabilitation or skipping it altogether may prevent you from ever fully recovering the function you may have achieved through an active rehabilitation program.
This is especially true as we age. Aging bodies can take longer to recover, and delaying rehabilitation can permanently affect your body’s strength, flexibility, and mobility.
How Physical Therapy Aids Recovery
Physical therapists are specifically trained and experienced in helping bodies maximize their potential. A physical therapy program can be an essential tool in your post-surgical recovery process. A skilled physical therapist can provide several benefits during your recovery, including:
- Pain management: Your physical therapist can teach you and guide you through different techniques to reduce pain without excessive reliance on medication.
- Restoring Mobility & Strength: Gradual progressions in movement and resistance training can help your body more quickly recover any lost strength and mobility.
- Preventing Complications: Dedicating yourself to your recovery process can help you avoid stiffness, blood clots, and muscle atrophy that can lead to further complications.
- Enhancing Healing: Proper exercises and movement techniques can support tissue repair and enhance healing during your recovery.
Post-surgical recovery is one of the most essential roles a physical therapist can play in your life. If you are recovering from surgery, it’s best to begin your recovery treatment as early as you safely can, and follow your physical therapist’s recommendations as closely and consistently as possible.
What to Expect from Post-Surgical Physical Therapy
Post-surgical physical therapy typically progresses through different phases as your body recovers. Surgery involves intentionally inflicting injury on some part of your body, and your early recovery may need to focus on recovering from the damage caused by that injury. In the early stages of therapy, the emphasis may be on protection and simple mobility. This phase may include gentle movements to help reduce swelling and control pain.
After this initial phase, your therapist may begin to focus on building strength and restoring functional mobility. This can include progressive exercises, flexibility training, and techniques to improve balance. As your body rebuilds its strength and mobility, you can work toward full functional restoration. Now your recovery plan can focus on returning you to your normal daily activities and can include sports-specific or work-related training.
Basic Tips for a Successful Recovery
Recovery outcomes will vary based on many factors, including the type of surgery, the age of the patient, and the patient’s overall condition at the time of surgery. In every case, though, following some basic guidelines will help you recover with maximum success. First, follow your physical therapist’s guidance and home exercise plan. This is a professionally developed treatment program customized to your specific needs. Stay disciplined and consistent with your treatment plan and your therapy appointments.
Next, be aware of nutrition and hydration’s role in recovery. Your body needs proper nourishment to reach its full potential. Also, remember to be patient. Healing takes time, and it’s not uncommon for some days to be better than others. Keeping a healthy mindset will make it easier to stick to the program and will help you overcome any obstacles or setbacks that can occur during your recovery.
Overall, post-surgical recovery can be daunting for many reasons. Fortunately for us all, skilled professional physical therapists are uniquely situated to help us get the most from our recovery process. If you are recovering from surgery or preparing for surgery in the future, don’t hesitate to contact a physical therapist for professional guidance through the recovery process.
A good therapist can also help your body prepare for an upcoming surgery, giving you the best opportunity to avoid complications and have your body prepared for a quick and successful recovery on the other end. So, whether you are pre-surgery or post-surgery, it’s never too early to consult with a physical therapist and set yourself up for success.
