The last thing on a patient’s mind after surgery is the post-surgery rehab. You want to rest and recover, but it is often the effort put into this recovery process that can help improve your quality of life after a procedure. Finding the motivation to have an active recovery may seem difficult, but breaking the process down to three simple goals will make the post-surgery rehab process more manageable. Remember that you can do it, and we can help!

Regaining mobility through post-surgery rehab

The first goal of post-surgery rehab is to get moving as soon as possible. Moving will help improve blood circulation to the recovering area. Improving circulation is important for two reasons.

First, it can help remove fluid buildup from the impacted area, which can decrease swelling. Second, as the nutrient delivery system of the body, getting blood flowing to the area will help the body heal faster.

Increasing flexibility with physical therapy

Scar tissue forms and soft tissues, like tendons or ligaments, shrink after surgery. Joints can stiffen, and range of motion can be limited by scar tissue formation. Stretching and range of motion exercises are important to the post-surgery rehab process to help prevent a buildup of scar tissue. The goal is to maintain or improve range of motion.

Strengthening muscles during post-surgery rehab

After surgery, muscles that your body was used to using every day can begin to experience atrophy. What is atrophy? Atrophy is the loss of muscle tissue due to lack of use. Post-surgery rehab can help regain strength in muscles and stabilize the injured area. Strengthening the muscles around the impacted area can also help prevent a recurrence of the injury.

Lastly, do not get discouraged! Progress may sometimes be slow, but our physical therapists are expert encouragers and motivators. The ultimate goal of post-surgery rehab is to increase endurance, strength and flexibility. Any post-operative exercises should be overseen by the care of a doctor or licensed physical therapist.

If you know you need surgery and would like to have post-surgical rehab, contact one of our offices in Franklin, WI to schedule your post-surgical appointment today.