The Vital Role of Physical Therapy after Total Shoulder Replacement
Total shoulder replacement is a surgical procedure that replaces a damaged or arthritic shoulder joint with an artificial one. It is a common procedure that helps many people regain their ability to participate in everyday activities. While the surgery itself is crucial, it is just the beginning of the recovery process. Physical therapy is essential during this period to optimize the chances of a full recovery. In this post, we will discuss the importance of physical therapy after total shoulder replacement and why it is vital for overall health and wellness.
1. Reduces Pain and Inflammation
During physical therapy, your therapist will develop a customized treatment plan aimed at reducing swelling and pain. Manual therapy techniques, such as massage or mobilization, can help to target specific areas and improve circulation. Physical therapy is also crucial in helping to manage pain, whether it be through heat or ice, electrical stimulation or gentle exercise strategies.
2. Promotes Healing
After surgery, the body needs time to heal. Physical therapy can help to promote healing by encouraging the body to perform low-impact movements. Through the use of gentle exercises, physiotherapy can encourage your body's natural healing process while also helping to reduce the risk of complications.
3. Improves Range of Motion
The shoulder joint is one of the most mobile and complex joints in the body. After surgery, the shoulder may feel stiff and limited in movement, but physical therapy can help. Through stretching and exercise, a physical therapist can help improve changes in the range of motion, strength, and flexibility, which are important for day-to-day activities such as reaching or carrying.
4. Supports Emotional Wellbeing
Sustaining an injury and having surgery can be difficult, can cause depression and other mental health problems. Physical therapy may not feel like it matters in the grand scheme of things, but it can contribute to your overall sense of wellbeing. Watching physical improvements in yourself can help boost your mood, and regular appointments with your therapist can provide accountability and encouragement.
5. Long-term success
Participating in physical therapy after surgery can help to prevent future injury or complications. Long-term success of any surgery depends on building strong habits and maintaining your health. Without the presence of your physical therapist, it can be challenging to do that. They can create a long-term plan and help motivate you to become your best physical self.
Conclusion
Physical therapy is crucial to the success of any total shoulder replacement surgery. The process of physical therapy can help relieve pain, promote healing and flexibility, and encourage long-term success. A highly trained physical therapist at the Central Florida Bone & Joint Institute can develop a treatment plan designed to meet your specific needs and goals. If you are considering a total shoulder replacement or have just undergone the surgery, remember that the benefits of physical therapy after shoulder replacement are vast and significant, and it can be an excellent investment in your overall health and wellness. If you are looking for an orthopedic surgeon in Orange City, FL, contact Central Florida Bone & Joint Institute today for more information.