Surgery is necessary in certain situations to improve your health and quality of life. After the surgery, you may wonder how to boost your recovery. Fortunately, post-surgical rehab can help.
Post-surgical rehabilitation is a specialized physical therapy technique that focuses on pain management. It also helps prevent complications and restore your physical function.Â
This article explores post-surgical rehab at FYZICAL, South Scottsdale. We discuss this treatment’s benefits, surgeries requiring rehabilitation, and what happens during the treatment.
Why Do You Need Post-Surgical Rehab?
Post-surgical rehab addresses the specific needs and challenges of patients after surgery. This treatment can help with the issues that arise from your surgery. You may experience some of the following issues, depending on the type and severity of your surgery;
- Loss of strength, range of motion, and flexibility in the operated area
- Swelling, inflammation, and scar tissue formation
- Pain, stiffness, and soreness
- Difficulty with walking, balance, and coordination
- Risk of infection, bleeding, or blood clots
- Emotional stress, anxiety, or depression
What Are The Benefits Of Post-Surgical Rehab?
Post-surgical rehab offers several benefits after your procedure. Some of the benefits of post-surgical rehab include;
Improving Your Physical Function
Post-surgical rehab can help you regain strength, range of motion, and flexibility. Your physical therapist will design a customized treatment program for your condition and progress. You will also learn how to use assistive devices, such as crutches or walkers, if necessary.
Reducing Your Pain
Post-surgical rehab can help with pain management without using medication. Physical therapy Scottsdale will use various modalities like heat, ice, ultrasound, electrical stimulation, or massage during treatment. These modalities reduce swelling, inflammation, and scar tissue.Â
Your physical therapist will also teach you self-care techniques like stretching, icing, or elevating your limb. These techniques can ease your discomfort.
Preventing Complications
Post-surgical rehab can prevent potential complications that can delay your recovery. After your surgery, your physical therapist will monitor the healing of your wound. They will also check for signs of infection, bleeding, or blood clots. They will also advise you on how to avoid them.Â
Your physical therapist will also teach you how to follow your post-operative instructions. As advised, it is best to take your medication, change your dressing, and keep your incision clean and dry. Doing this speeds up your recovery and reduces your risk of infection.
What Surgeries Require Post-Surgical Rehab?
Post-surgical rehab is ideal if you undergo any of these surgeries, such as:
- Knee replacement
- Spinal fusion
- Rotator cuff repairÂ
- Hip replacement
- ACL tear repair
- Caparal tunnel syndrome surgery
- Shoulder surgery
- Back surgery
What Happens During Post-Surgical Rehabilitation?
Post-surgical rehabilitation Scottsdale works in phases. Your physical therapist will create a treatment plan that considers your type of surgery, condition, and recovery goals.Â
Post-surgical rehabilitation occurs in three phases:
Phase 1: Early Recovery Phase
The early recovery phase usually lasts a few days to a few weeks post-surgery. The main objective of this phase is to protect your surgical site, control your pain and inflammation, and prevent complications.Â
Your surgeon may ask you to restrict movement and weight bearing. You may also need to use assistive devices like crutches, walkers, or braces to move around.Â
Your physical therapist will teach you how to perform basic activities. You will learn how to get in and out of bed, dress, bathe, and use the toilet safely. You may also try gentle exercises, such as range of motion and breathing exercises.
These exercises help maintain circulation, muscle tone, and joint mobility. They may also be passive. Your physical therapist will move your limb and gently stretch your muscles. Passive exercises can improve your mobility, range of motion, and flexibility.
Phase 2: Strength and Range of Motion Phase
This phase usually lasts from a few weeks to a few months. This phase focuses on improving strength, endurance, flexibility, and function. Your physical therapist will gradually increase your movement and weight-bearing. The intensity and duration of your exercises will also increase.Â
Your physical therapist will also introduce you to more advanced exercises. These exercises may include resistance, balance, and coordination exercises. They challenge your muscles, joints, and nervous system.Â
You will also learn to perform functional activities like walking, climbing stairs, squatting, and lifting. Your physical therapist will also educate you on modifying your lifestyle, posture, and ergonomics to prevent re-injury.
Phase 3: Functional Restoration Phase
This phase usually lasts a few months to a year or more after surgery. The functional restoration phase optimizes your performance to prevent a recurrence. You will continue to progress through your exercises. Your physical therapist will also incorporate more specific and complex tasks into your program.Â
During this phase, your physical therapist will monitor your progress and adjust your rehab plan accordingly. You will also learn how to maintain your results and prevent future problems.
Conclusion
Post-surgical rehabilitation is necessary for your recovery. This treatment can restore physical function, reduce pain, and prevent complications. Your physical therapist will assess your condition to create a customized treatment plan.Â
Because the treatment program occurs in phases, your physical therapist at FYZICAL South Scottsdale will guide you through your rehabilitation journey. You can count on specialized care and a team of physical therapists committed to your recovery.