5 Tips to Find Success in Post-Surgery Physical Therapy

After you undergo orthopedic surgery, you will likely need to plan for rehabilitation to heal properly. This will involve physical therapy exercises and routines that will aid in proper recovery. When you work with our orthopedic surgeon in Debary, our surgeons and physical therapists work together to create a rehab routine tailored to your needs. Whether you've had a knee replacement, a spinal fusion, or any other type of procedure, physical therapy can help you regain strength, flexibility, and mobility. These are a few tips to help you find success during your post-surgery physical therapy.

Listen to Your Physical Therapist

Your physical therapist and orthopedic surgeon have worked hard to develop a routine that is suited to your condition, pain, surgery, and lifestyle. This customized rehabilitation plan is tailored to your specific needs and goals. It's important to follow their instructions and perform the exercises and stretches they've prescribed if you want to recover properly.

Communicate Honestly

If you have any pain or discomfort during the exercises, be sure to let your therapist know. Although these exercises are meant to push you a little bit, they should not be painful. Once you communicate these concerns with your therapist, they can adjust the exercises or modify your plan accordingly.

Stay Consistent

Consistency is perhaps the most important part of your post-surgical recovery. If you do not perform the exercises for many days in a row, your joints and muscles may not heal properly. When your therapist provides you with exercises to do at home, you need to make these a priority. Develop a routine that works for your day so that you never forget about your exercises. You should also strive to attend every appointment so that you can stay on the course and resume your normal life as soon as possible.

Be Patient

Healing does not happen overnight, and you need to trust the process. Recovery after surgery takes time, and you do not want to risk injury by pushing yourself too far. Avoid putting too much pressure on yourself during the recovery period, as you should trust that you are in good hands.

Ask about Pain Management

Physical therapy can be uncomfortable, but it should not be unbearable. If you're experiencing pain, let your therapist know and they can provide pain management techniques such as icing, ultrasound, or electrical stimulation. Also, you should always ask your doctor before taking any over-the-counter medications, as this can disrupt your healing process.

Physical therapy after surgery is not easy, but with the right mindset and approach, you can achieve success. Over time, you will start to regain your strength, flexibility, and range of motion. If you are looking for the right orthopedic surgeon in Debary to help with your joint issues, contact our specialists today.