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Post-Surgery Physical Therapy
Patients undergo surgery for a number of reasons but all face a common scenario in the aftermath: post-surgical recovery. If you need to relearn how to walk or use a specific joint while the body continues to heal, that’s where physical therapy comes into play.
Depending on your condition and goals, personalized exercises guide your recovery, get you closer to independence and improve overall quality of life. Learn more about what to expect and how our team can support your post-operative rehabilitation journey.
Post-Operative Recovery with Physical Therapy
After surgery, it’s a gradual process returning to everyday activities. Yet sitting in place can hold you back, further reducing flexibility and mobility. Physical rehabilitation not only gets you moving but helps you maintain and increase range of motion, so you can get back to what you enjoy doing.
As you start treatment, a physical therapist will assess your limitations and develop an exercise plan to reengage affected muscle groups.
Personalized Physical Therapy After Surgery
From open-heart surgery to joint replacement or removing a cancerous growth, you can benefit from a post-surgery rehabilitation plan. Based on the condition and affected area, physical therapy treatment may include a combination of:
- In-Hospital Treatment: You’ll practice getting out of bed, a chair, walking and bathing. You may also learn how to use a mobility device, like crutches or a walker. Following discharge from the hospital, your progress will continue in an outpatient center or short-term rehab.
- Outpatient Care: During multiple physical therapy sessions per week, you’ll have treatment to reduce swelling and pain, as well as learn exercises designed to support your recovery.
- Occupational Therapy: As your body recovers, meeting with an occupational therapist can help you relearn activities of daily living to gradually become more independent.
Key Benefits of Post-Operative Physical Therapy
Post-operative surgery appointments at Integrated Rehab help:
- Improve mobility, range of motion and flexibility with targeted exercises
- Strengthen affected muscle groups, so you can perform everyday tasks
- Reduce post-surgical pain, stiffness, swelling and inflammation
- Improve circulation to support the body’s healing process
- Lessen scar tissue formation to preserve mobility in the affected area
- Lower risks for certain complications, including blood clots and infections
- Increase independence at home and in the world
- Facilitate a quicker return to work and your daily routine
Physical therapy also supports your mental and emotional recovery, helping you reconnect with the people and activities you enjoy most.
Frequently Asked Questions About Post-Surgery Physical Therapy
Q: How soon after surgery should I start physical therapy?
A: The timing depends on the type of surgery and your doctor’s recommendations. In many cases, physical therapy begins within 24–48 hours after surgery while you’re still in the hospital. Early movement helps reduce stiffness, improve circulation, and accelerate healing. For outpatient care, you’ll typically start sessions within the first week after discharge.
Q: How does physical therapy help after surgery?
A: Physical therapy plays a crucial role in your recovery by:
- Reducing pain, stiffness, and swelling.
- Restoring range of motion and flexibility.
- Strengthening muscles to support the affected area.
- Improving circulation to aid healing.
- Helping you regain independence in daily activities.
Through personalized exercises and guided care, physical therapy helps you return to your normal routine faster and with less discomfort.
Q: What types of surgeries require physical therapy for recovery?
A: Many surgeries benefit from physical therapy, including:
- Orthopedic procedures (e.g., knee replacements, hip replacements, rotator cuff repairs).
- Spinal surgeries (e.g., herniated disc repairs, spinal fusions).
- Cardiac surgeries (e.g., open-heart surgery, bypass surgery).
- Cancer-related procedures (e.g., mastectomies, tumor removals).
- Abdominal surgeries (e.g., C-sections, hernia repairs).
If you’re unsure, consult with your doctor or physical therapist to determine if rehabilitation is right for your situation.
Q: How long does post-surgery rehabilitation take?
A: Recovery times vary based on the type of surgery, your overall health, and the progress you make during therapy. For minor procedures, rehabilitation may take a few weeks. For major surgeries, such as joint replacements or spinal procedures, the process can take several months. Your physical therapist will create a tailored plan to help you meet your recovery goals at the right pace.
Start Your Post-Surgery Recovery Today!
Contact Integrated Rehab and schedule a personalized physical therapy consultation.