Don’t Underestimate the Value of Physical Therapy
Your Post-Surgery Recovery Depends on It
We know it can be scary. We know it can be rough, especially taking those first steps. But we can’t stress enough the importance of beginning—and sticking with—your physical therapy regimen following major orthopedic surgery.
From a total knee replacement in Franklin Lakes, NJ, to an ankle joint replacement in Paramus, NJ, the value of getting up and moving soon and in the right ways cannot be overestimated. Here at Kayal Orthopaedic Center, we are keenly aware that there is healing power in each and every step—however tenuous those first few might be.
The sooner you build up the muscles around your new joint, the sooner you will be able to resume your normal routine and enjoy your improved lifestyle. The benefits of physical rehabilitation after your surgical procedure include:
- Improved circulation, which is particularly important immediately after surgery to prevent blood clots
- Reduced pain and swelling
- Greater strength in your joint and surrounding muscles
- Quicker return to work and normal activities
You might be surprised to learn that, if you’re not in too much pain, you could be asked to get up and move around on the same day as your surgery. At first, you’ll be encouraged to sit on the edge of the bed and then walk a few steps with help. Soon, you’ll be navigating the hallways using crutches or a walker.
Although most patients return home to continue their recovery, some spend time in a rehabilitation center. In both cases, you will continue to work with your physical therapist on exercises and strategies to improve muscle strength and mobility.
Your physical therapist will work with you one-on-one and also will give you exercises that you can do by yourself. It’s important to avoid overdoing it, but it’s just as important to challenge yourself. Your physical therapist will help you find the happy medium for you. As a rule, the more you exercise and move, the faster you will eliminate your pain and speed up your recovery.
As your endurance improves, your therapist will encourage you to add more exercises that strengthen your muscles and joints. Your mileage may vary, but exercising about 30 minutes two or three times a day is a typical regimen. Walking also plays an important role in your recovery. Most patients usually start with five minutes and build up to at least 30 minutes a day several times a day.
Schedule Your Appointment Today
The team at Kayal Orthopaedic Center takes great pride and satisfaction in helping patients reclaim active, pain-free lifestyles following joint replacement surgery. When you experience knee, hip, shoulder or ankle joint pain and require the expertise of a pain management specialist in Westwood, Glen Rock, Franklin Lakes or Paramus, we have the skills and experience to diagnose, treat and oversee your care and treatment. To schedule an appointment or to learn more about us, call 844.777.0910 or contact us on the web.