If you have had an injury or recent surgery, your orthopaedic doctor may recommend physical therapy. It’s important to
understand why physical therapy is beneficial and necessary for maximum recovery. Let’s talk about the many ways physical therapy at Hampton Roads Orthopaedics Spine & Sports Medicine can improve the quality of your recovery after an injury or surgery.
Benefits to Consider
Here are some benefits to physical therapy to keep in mind when you have had an unexpected injury or fall.
Range of Motion
Mobility can definitely be limited after an injury. While you may be tempted to keep still and not move the affected area, knowing the proper steps to take for ultimate healing is vital. Physical therapy will target the affected bone and muscle areas. Waiting can cause scar tissue to build up, causing a limited range of motion and could create setbacks. Locating the injured areas precisely will aid in healing and help your recovery go more smoothly.
Healing
When you get hurt or have surgery, you subconsciously and naturally change how you move to compensate for the affected area. Having physical therapy can aid you in this process by helping you avoid unintentional injury caused by limited movement.
Trained Professional
Physical therapists know what to do to help your recovery. They have the skills and training to understand how to guide you through the healing process. They will target focused areas to exercise and hone in on specific muscles. You are less likely to see actual results if you try at-home methods.
Post-Surgical
After surgery, an orthopaedist will evaluate you and do an x-ray. Tissues do not naturally form in useful ways when healing. They have to be guided and aligned correctly. Therapy and even massage are valuable for retraining your body to function again. Talk to your doctor. Your HROSM orthopaedic surgeon will likely recommend physical therapy for your post-operative care. You may be required to rest first, then move on to physical therapy. Remember, surgery is only the first step in the process of living a healthier, more mobile life, remember the physical therapy benefits.
