How Physical Therapy Supports Recovery After Orthopedic Surgery

It’s finally time. You’ve tried all the conservative treatments — cortisone shots, physical therapy, medications — but the pain continues, and now your doctor is recommending orthopedic surgery.

This is a good news/bad news situation. On the bad side, you’re facing a major surgery, with recovery to follow. But, on the good side, you’re fixing the problem once and for all, and you’ll feel and function much better soon.

One of the keys to recovering from your surgery is the physical therapy you undergo in the weeks following the procedure. Whether you’ve had a knee, hip, or shoulder replacement, knee or shoulder arthroscopy, spinal surgery, ACL repair or something else, our expert team at Carolina Joint and Arthritis will direct you straight to physical therapy as soon as possible.

Here’s how physical therapy supports your recovery after orthopedic surgery.

Restores mobility and flexibility

After your surgery, your joints tend to stiffen, and your movement patterns change as your body instinctively tries to protect itself from pain. Physical therapy uses evidence-based exercises and hands-on techniques to restore your range of motion and rebuild your proper movements so your body functions as it should.

Reduces pain, swelling and inflammation

You’ll also have plenty of inflammation, swelling, and pain after surgery. Physical therapy helps reduce the pain and inflammation with manual therapy and massage, application of heat and ice, and electrical stimulation.

Builds strength and stability

Your muscles tend to become weaker after orthopedic surgery; physical therapy is your greatest weapon in regaining your strength and the stability that comes with stronger muscles. Strong muscles not only help protect the joint, but they also make future injury less likely. 

Rebuilding strength doesn’t happen overnight, so you have to stay consistent with your physical therapy appointments and doing your assigned exercises on your own at home.

Restores independence

Physical therapy also provides a mental boost as you recover from surgery. You can see tangible progress at every session, which improves your morale and reduces the fear of not recovering well. You also get to actively participate in your recovery, which gives you the tools and confidence you need as your body returns to normal function.

If you’re dealing with an orthopedic issue that may require surgery, our team at Carolina Joint and Arthritis is here to help. Call our Wilmington, North Carolina, office to schedule an appointment, or book online at a time that’s convenient for you.