Friday, October 6, 2017
Regaining normal movement and strength after surgery is a process that begins with physical therapy. Following surgery, patients may be hampered by pain, swelling, and stiffness. Therapy guides them back to normal activity without damaging the surgically repaired area. It’s an essential step in the recovery period.
Chris Hill, OrthoCincy Physical Therapy Director in Ohio, says therapists at OrthoCincy work in concert with a patient’s surgeon to coordinate the best program for recovery and a return to daily routines after surgery.
“Each surgery is different, so individualized treatment is important,” says Hill. “Because our therapists are in close communication with our surgeons, we make sure the treatment is specific to each patient’s needs.”
Therapy accomplishes several goals after surgery: regaining muscle and joint strength, balance, and function; safely re-learning how to use the joint again; reducing pain from stiffness and swelling; and preventing re-injury of the affected area.
“Therapy directs a patient’s recovery at every stage,” he says. “It optimizes the benefits of surgery and allows for the fullest recovery possible.”
Skipping therapy or waiting too long after surgery to pursue therapy can have detrimental results, Hill warns.“Completing all of your physical therapy will help you reach your goals and reach an optimal level of activity—it’s an important part of your recovery,” Hill says.
Chris Hill, PT, MHS, OCS, is Director of Physical Therapy in Ohio. He sees patients at the Montgomery location.