If you have just undergone surgery, or have a surgery scheduled, then physical therapy may be right for you. Here’s why:
1. Helps to Reduce Pain
The choice to undergo surgery is usually made after every other treatment option has failed. This is because surgery, unlike pain medications or injections, can sometimes result in weeks of recovery time and residual pain. This is where physical therapy comes in. Your physical therapist will teach you strengthening and stretching exercises designed to aid the recovery process and keep pain at bay.
2. Increases Range of Motion
Immediately following surgery, you may also experience stiffness. Your body will take time to adjust to the repairs or changes that were made during surgery, which can result in temporary mild inflammation. By seeing a physical therapist, you will not only learn the best exercises to increase flexibility, but you will also be held accountable to perform them regularly – an important part of recovery!
3. Helps Prevents Further Injury
Finally, physical therapy – when done under the supervision of a licensed physical therapist – is crucial to preventing further injuries long after the surgery is done. Even a few weeks of proper physical therapy can help build up the right muscles that will protect bones and tendons from future damage.