Why Pre and Post Op Physical Therapy?
Set yourself up for success with both pre and post-operative physical therapy.
If you’re facing surgery, you might have a mix of emotions – anticipation, a bit of worry, and a strong desire to get back to your normal life as quickly as possible. Physical therapy can make a big difference in that journey, both before and after your surgery. Studies show that pre-operative exercises and strengthening programs can be effective in reducing complications and length of hospital stay in post-operative situations. At Pro-Active we can help you prepare your body for the challenges of surgery and guide you through the best possible recovery. Our experienced PTs will arm you with strength, knowledge, and preparation to help you before and after your procedure.
Help prepare yourself for a successful surgical outcome with pre and post-operative physical therapy.
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Patient Success Spotlight
“Unfortunately, I have had to have physical therapy for several different ailments or surgeries. I have used Proactive Physical Therapy for all my therapy needs. Their staff is knowledgeable, friendly, and caring. They listen and include the client in the plan of care. I would recommend them to anyone needing therapy care, and I have many times.” – L.T.
Why Both Pre and Post-surgery Physical Therapy?
Physical therapy plays a crucial role in achieving your surgical and recovery goals, both before and after your procedure. Pre-surgery PT focuses on improving your strength, range of motion, and overall fitness to prepare your body for the surgical process. Afterward, physical therapy guides your rehabilitation process by:
- Reducing pain
- Restoring motion
- Eliminating swelling
- Rebuilding strength
- Helping you regain functional independence
Pre-Surgical Physical Therapy
Pre-surgical Physical Therapy, sometimes referred to as “Prehab,” aims to optimize your physical condition before surgery for a smooth recovery and successful outcome.
- Improved Strength and Range of Motion: Strengthen the muscles and maximize your range of motion in and around the surgical area.
- Reduced Pain and Inflammation: Manage existing discomfort and reduce or eliminate inflammation to support successful post-operative healing.
- Education and Preparation: Learn what to expect from the post-operative experience, like physical therapy exercises, how to use assistive devices, and adjustments you can make beforehand to safely navigate your home environment.
Patients who undergo pre-surgical education and physical therapy programs often experience lower levels of anxiety compared to those who don’t prepare in this way. By understanding what lies ahead and feeling equipped with knowledge and strength, patients often feel more empowered and can improve emotional well-being throughout the process.
Post-Operative Physical Therapy
Post-surgery physical therapy is an important part of the recovery process. Our PTs will help you regain your normal movement patterns, rebuild strength, and restore overall function. Our goal is to support your body’s natural healing process by using the following:
- Pain Management: Our PTs use techniques like manual therapy and modalities to reduce post-operative pain, swelling, and stiffness.
- Reduce Swelling and Scar Tissue Management: We will use targeted hands-on treatments, including joint mobilizations with targeted exercises to help reduce swelling, minimize scar tissue formation, and restore range of motion to avoid limitations in overall movement.
- Improved Strength: Progressive strengthening exercise programs restore stability and normal function and prevent complications.
- Functional Training: Retrain your normal movement patterns and improve your coordination and body awareness to facilitate a successful return to independence.
Staff Spotlight
PT | Bryant Physical Therapy
Krista, her husband Brandon and their son Haden are current residents of Benton, AR. She attended college at UCA for her undergraduate and Harding University for PT school. In her spare time she enjoys spending time with family and friends, relaxing in her hammock and playing a good board game. Krista participates in various community service projects throughout her church in Little Rock and surrounding communities. Krista joined our team in May 2018 and she has since taken on the title of Clinic Director at our Bryant location. When asked what her favorite part of the job is she says “meeting people from all walks of life and being part of their journey along the way”.
Flat Bread Pizza
Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for surface
- 2 tsp. baking powder
- 1 tsp. kosher salt
- 1/2 tsp. baking soda
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 2 Tbsp. olive oil
- Vegetable oil, for pan
- 12 oz. grape tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 small red onion, sliced
- 2 tsp. extra-virgin olive oil
- 2 tsp. freshly chopped oregano
- Kosher salt
- Freshly ground black pepper
- 8 oz. mozzarella, sliced into 1/4″ thick rounds
- Balsamic glaze, for serving
- 2 cups arugula
Directions:
- Preheat oven to 400°. In a large bowl, whisk to combine flour, baking powder, salt, and baking soda. Add yogurt and oil and mix until no dry spots remain. Lightly flour a clean work surface.
- Transfer dough to surface and knead until smooth, 3 to 4 minutes, adding more flour if the dough is sticky. Divide dough into 3 pieces, then roll each piece into 1/4” thick round. Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat and add enough vegetable oil to coat the bottom of the pan. Cook flatbreads until golden on both sides, about 2 minutes per side.
- Continue cooking flatbreads, adding more vegetable oil as needed. In a medium bowl, combine tomatoes, red onion, oil, and oregano and season with salt and pepper.
- Top each flatbread with cheese, tomato-onion mixture and bake until cheese is melty, 15 minutes. Drizzle with balsamic glaze and top with arugula before serving.
Pre and Post-op Physical Therapy with ProActive
Our physical therapists design every pre and post-op program based on individual needs and goals. At your first appointment, we’ll conduct a thorough assessment of your medical history and existing condition to understand the details of your upcoming surgery. Then, we’ll discuss your questions and concerns and set achievable goals for success. If you or a loved one is considering surgery or have scheduled an upcoming procedure, give us a call today. We’ll schedule your first appointment and discuss how our pre and post-op physical therapy program can help you.
Pain Management Through Physical Therapy Techniques
After surgery, pain is often an unavoidable part of the healing and recovery process. Fortunately, physical therapy offers essential tools to help you find relief and promote recovery without long-term reliance on medication. Our physical therapists are experts in identifying the root cause of your pain and will develop a personalized treatment plan to alleviate it.
Some techniques that our physical therapists use to address post-surgical pain include:
- Manual Therapy: Hands-on techniques to reduce pain and swelling, mobilize joints and soft tissue, and ensure circulation and lymph drainage to facilitate healing and overall recovery.
- Targeted Exercises: Guided movements to improve joint range of motion, enhance soft tissue mobility, and restore function.
- Strengthening Muscles: Progressive exercises to strengthen muscles and support the surrounding joints for short and long-term relief.
Our physical therapists will also empower you to manage your pain with exercises and self-care techniques you can use in between sessions. As you become stronger and more mobile, your reliance on pain medication can naturally decrease to promote a sustainable healing and recovery process.
