October is Physical Therapy Awareness Month, a time to recognize the vital role physical therapy plays in recovery from joint replacement surgery. While joint replacement can significantly improve mobility and quality of life, the journey to full recovery doesn’t end in the operating room. Physical therapy is essential for ensuring long-term success and helping patients regain their independence.
Restoring Strength and Mobility
After joint replacement surgery, muscles surrounding the joint often become weak and stiff due to inactivity. Physical therapy is crucial in restoring strength and flexibility, allowing patients to regain full use of their new joint. Your doctor recommends exercise programs that focus on improving muscle tone, increasing range of motion, and enhancing overall joint function.
Accelerating Recovery
Physical therapy helps speed up the recovery process by promoting circulation, reducing swelling, and preventing complications such as blood clots. Through guided exercises and movement, patients are encouraged to start walking and performing everyday activities sooner, which is key to a successful recovery. Early and consistent physical therapy can significantly shorten the time it takes to return to routine activities of daily living.
Reducing Pain and Discomfort
Post-surgical pain is a common concern for patients undergoing joint replacement surgery. Physical therapy helps manage this pain through targeted exercises that strengthen the muscles around the joint and improve joint stability. Additionally, physical therapists use techniques such as manual therapy, ice, and heat treatments to alleviate discomfort and promote healing.
Ensuring Long-Term Success
The benefits of physical therapy extend well beyond the initial recovery phase. Continued physical therapy helps patients maintain joint strength, flexibility, and function, which is essential for the long-term success of the implant.1 Therapists also educate patients on how to protect their new joint, ensuring it remains healthy and functional for years to come.
Whether you're seeking relief from arthritic hip or knee pain or looking to restore mobility after knee replacement or hip replacement, Dr. Buchalter is dedicated to providing personalized, cutting-edge care enabling faster recovery with less discomfort. Schedule your consultation today.
AUTHOR: David N. Buchalter, MD is a board-certified, fellowship-trained orthopedic surgeon specializing in minimally invasive hip and knee replacement surgery at South Palm Orthopedics. Dr. Buchalter uses the latest cutting-edge surgical and nonsurgical techniques for orthopedic patients across South Florida.
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