About 80% of people who’ve recently had surgery experience pain after their procedure, alongside other symptoms like stiffness and swelling. These are the body’s natural response to incisions and stitches, but they can make the following days and weeks uncomfortable.
To make recovery easier, many surgeons have their patients enroll in physical therapy (PT).
Physical therapist Rupal Mehta, PT, MS, DPT, PhD, at Preserve Physical Therapy in The Woodlands and Magnolia, Texas, frequently works with people recovering from surgery.
Here, we explain how physical therapy supports recovery, highlight some of its benefits, and explore what to expect from a PT program.
Surgery techniques have come a long way over the last 50 years, but even minimally invasive techniques can’t prevent common side effects, such as pain, stiffness, and swelling. Despite advances, the body still needs time to recover, and extended rest alone isn’t always enough.
Enrolling in a post-surgery rehabilitation program helps by increasing blood flow throughout your body, reducing inflammation, and supporting the body’s natural healing process.
Conversely, research shows that people who opt out of physical therapy usually take longer to recover, report increased pain, and are more likely to experience complications.
Beyond the physical benefits, PT offers emotional support and motivation. Many people find the recovery process lonely, but a physical therapist can help coach you to stay positive and motivated, even when things seem bleak.
Working with an experienced physical therapist after surgery offers various benefits, including:
PT promotes healing by increasing circulation to specific areas of your body, delivering oxygen and nutrients to the treatment site, reducing inflammation, and repairing damaged tissues.
Post-surgical pain makes it tempting to stay sedentary, but movement is important. Targeted stretches and strengthening exercises reduce stiffness, making it easier to move comfortably. At the same time, PT can teach you alternative movements to reduce the risk of reinjury.
No two surgeries are exactly alike, and neither are their recovery processes. PT is tailored to your needs. That means your program includes targeted exercises and hands-on therapies specifically designed to help you recover.
People recovering from orthopedic surgery are at risk of reinjury. While these risks can’t be eliminated entirely, PT reduces the likelihood by teaching safe movement and protective strategies.
Dr. Mehta develops custom PT treatment plans for each of his patients, but they often include similar steps. Here’s a quick overview of what to expect:
Early sessions typically focus on guided exercises that reduce stiffness and relieve pain. They may also include manual therapies, such as massage or joint mobilization, to ease tension and help your muscles relax.
As healing begins, you transition to strength training, stretching, and balance work. These methods make it easier to manage activities of daily living and help reduce your risk of reinjury.
Dr. Mehta adjusts your treatment plan regularly, using your symptoms and abilities to guide these changes.
For optimal results, attend each of your treatment sessions, even on days you’re feeling tired. The more consistent you are, the quicker you’ll be able to return to your regular routine.
PT can help you recover faster and return to your favorite activities safely. If you’re preparing to undergo surgery (or recently had an operation), don’t wait to enroll in physical therapy. Taking action now is a great way to set yourself up for success.
Contact us today to schedule a consultation. Call (832) 510-3967 or book online.