Modern surgery has advanced to a point where it is safer and less invasive than ever before. When needed, it can be almost miraculous in its ability to save or extend lives. However, surgery is not always a quick fix. It is often the beginning of a long recovery process. That recovery process starts in the hospital, but it often extends well beyond your release date, sometimes weeks or even months after the procedure.
Depending on the type of procedure, you will likely be given recommendations to follow during your recovery. These recommendations may include wound care advice, dietary suggestions, and follow-up appointments. Your recovery will likely include rest, but it is also important to gradually prepare your body to get back to work or other aspects of your life. It may be necessary to restore function in parts of your body that were impacted by your surgery. This is where physical therapy can play a vital role in your post-surgical recovery.
While you may be able to perform many basic exercises on your own, physical therapy can provide a customized, guided, and progressive recovery plan that is optimized to get your body performing at its best as quickly and safely as possible.
Why Physical Therapy Is So Important After Surgery
Surgery can often leave stiffness, swelling, and pain in your body. All of these can be treated by a guided physical therapy program. Properly applied therapy techniques and exercises can improve circulation and promote healing, while also helping to restore mobility, strength, and function.
Physical therapy can also help prevent complications from poor technique or overcompensation. A skilled physical therapist can guide you through a customized treatment plan based on your condition and ability, reducing the likelihood of re-injury. Your therapist will also continually assess your progress and adapt your treatment plan accordingly.
Physical therapy supports a safer, faster return to daily activities than you are likely to achieve without it. It is one of the most important investments you can make in your post-surgical rehab and recovery.
What to Expect During Post-Surgical Physical Therapy
The first thing you can expect from post-surgical physical therapy is an initial evaluation. Your therapist will review your surgical history and physician protocols. They will perform a baseline assessment of your pain, range of motion, strength, and/or mobility. They will talk with you about your real-life activities and discuss realistic goals.
After a thorough assessment, your therapist can develop a personalized treatment plan based on your needs and condition. This may include gentle early-stage movement to protect healing tissue, then progress toward strengthening and mobility exercises. It may include hands-on therapy when appropriate. It should also include education on safe movement and any recommended activity modifications. Your therapist can be a fantastic resource for knowledge and support during the recovery process, and you should feel comfortable asking any questions you may have.
Your specific recovery plan will be customized to your needs, but it will generally follow a progressive path intended to help you get from where you are today to where you need to be in the future.
- Early Recovery: At this stage, pain and swelling management are important, as well as protecting the surgical site. You may begin restoring some basic movement.
- Building Strength & Mobility: This phase may involve improving your range of motion, rebuilding strength and stability, and correcting movement patterns.
- Functional & Return-to-Activity Training: It’s important to prepare your body to return to work, sports, or whatever other daily activities you perform. This may include improving balance, coordination, and endurance, and helping you build confidence in your abilities.
Physical therapists are uniquely qualified to guide you through your recovery journey. Be open and honest, stay motivated, and follow their recommendations and advice to get the best possible outcome.
Tips for a Successful Post-Surgical PT Experience
Now that you recognize the benefits of physical therapy, it’s time to consider what you can do to get the most out of the experience. The first thing to consider is whatever advice you received from your surgery provider. If they recommend a timeframe for starting physical therapy, follow the recommendation. Don’t hesitate. The sooner you start, the greater your chances of a full and fast recovery.
Once you start, be consistent with your appointments and home exercises. Communicate openly about any pain, concerns, or personal goals. Keep your mind focused on long-term recovery, not just short-term relief. Healing takes time, and progress isn’t always linear, so be patient.
It’s also important to start by choosing the right physical therapy clinic in the first place. You want a clinic staffed by experienced clinicians familiar with post-surgical protocols. You should receive one-on-one personalized care. You should expect clear communication, and you should feel comfortable asking any questions you have. You should also expect a supportive environment that keeps you motivated. Finally, if you’re not happy with the care you’re receiving, you should consider looking for another clinic.
At Strive! Physical Therapy Centers, our skilled therapists are very experienced with post-surgical recovery, and we have been helping our friends and neighbors in Ocala and surrounding communities recover from surgery for more than 40 years. If you are local to one of our clinics and would like to speak with a qualified, caring therapist about your recovery, we’d love to hear from you. Call us at 352.690.7777 or email us today to schedule a free consultation.
