Recovery after surgery may seem daunting, but physical therapy is here to help! Post-surgical physical therapy helps you regain your mobility, strength, and confidence as you heal. Let’s dive into some FAQs about recovering with physical therapy.
WHY IS POST-SURGICAL PHYSICAL THERAPY USEFUL?
Post-surgical physical therapy helps you gradually build up your strength and range of motion. Early movement is essential for long-term recovery.
WHAT DOES POST-SURGICAL PHYSICAL THERAPY LOOK LIKE?
Our physical therapists will start by developing a plan of care based on your condition, your surgical protocol, and your goals for healing! In the beginning of the post-surgical PT process, we focus on working with your body to slowly initiate movement and restore your range of motion, while protecting the integrity of your recent surgery.
The next phase of recovery is geared to improve your strength and mobility. We’ll work through identifying restrictions in your movement and addressing these with specific exercises, focusing on building your strength back up and gradually increasing your endurance. As your ability improves, we’ll target specific tasks and activities.
HOW LONG DOES HEALING TAKE?
While healing progresses differently for everyone and every type of surgery, there are general timeframes: bone typically heals in 6-12 weeks, while muscle heals in just 2-8 weeks thanks to a rich blood supply. Tendons heal to a basic level in 6-12 weeks and full strength in 3-6 months; a mild injury to ligaments can heal in just 3-4 weeks, while a full tear or surgical repair may take 6-9 months to heal. Gradual, guided movement in physical therapy can support the healing process, as can adequate protein and nutrients, quality sleep, nicotine avoidance, and following surgical precautions. Comorbidities such as diabetes and smoking can impact your body’s physiological response. While there’s no way to speed up healing biologically, we can manage your pain and help to mitigate any complications that may slow the process.
HOW CAN I MAKE POST-SURGICAL PHYSICAL THERAPY SUCCESSFUL FOR ME?
Make sure to express your goals for recovery. Post-surgical rehabilitation looks different for everyone: you might want to get back to soccer practice or running marathons, or you may just want to regain your mobility so you can walk or wash your hair without discomfort. Our therapists will develop a plan of action tailored to your expectations and needs.
Everyone’s experience in post-surgical PT will be different! As experts in movement, we will guide you back to feeling your best. Schedule an appointment today!