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 Rebound Physical Therapy, 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.
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.
Pre and Post-op Physical Therapy with Rebound Physical Therapy
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.
Get Game-Ready for the Upcoming Fall Sports Season
As summer winds down, athletes and weekend warriors look forward to the start of the fall sports season. Whatever sport you are getting ready for, preparing your body is essential.
Start the season injury-free and in peak form with these tips:
Three Ways to Prepare for Fall Sports
Consider getting a biomechanical assessment to provide insights into your posture, gait, and body mechanics, helping you tweak your training for better performance and lower injury risk.
Prepare your body for the unique demands of your chosen sport. Different sports use different muscle groups, so tailor your workouts accordingly.
Getting proper rest (sleep) is a critical but often overlooked aspect of physical training. Incorporating foam rolling can help muscles recover and prevent overuse injuries. Investing time and effort in your recovery can significantly impact your performance on the field.
What Is Functional Manual Reaction?
Functional Manual Reaction™ (FMR) is a hands-on treatment approach used during active movement to improve the way your joints and muscles work together. Rather than relying on passive techniques, FMR helps restore natural movement patterns, reduce restrictions, and improve strength, balance, and overall function. By applying gentle guidance to specific areas of the body during functional movements, physical therapists can identify movement limitations, improve joint mobility, enhance muscle activation, and support more efficient movement. Because FMR is performed during real-life motions, it provides meaningful feedback to the body that promotes lasting results. At Rebound Physical Therapy, our experienced therapists use Functional Manual Reaction™ as part of personalized treatment plans to help you move better, recover faster, and return to the activities you enjoy.
Prone Hip Extension
Strengthen your glutes and lower back while improving hip stability, posture, and movement for everyday activities.
How To Perform
Start by lying face down on the floor. Gently tighten your abdominals/core. While keeping your knee straight, squeeze your butt muscle and slowly raise one leg off the ground. Hold for 2 seconds. Slowly lower and repeat with the other leg.
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.
Manual Therapy
- Hands-on techniques help reduce pain and swelling.
- Mobilizes joints and soft tissues.
- Improves circulation and lymph drainage to promote healing and recovery.
Targeted Exercises
- Guided movements improve joint range of motion.
- Enhance soft tissue mobility.
- Restore normal movement and overall function.
Strengthening Muscles
- Progressive exercises build strength around the affected area.
- Support surrounding joints for improved stability.
- Provide both short- and long-term pain relief.
Healthy Green Goddess Chicken Salad
When in doubt, chicken salad is the perfect solution to the question “what’s for lunch?” This fresh, herb-packed recipe comes together in minutes and is ideal for healthy lunches or meal prep throughout the week.
Ingredients
- 1/4 cup light mayo
- 1/4 cup plain non-fat Greek yogurt
- 1 tbsp white wine vinegar
- 1 lemon, zested and juiced
- 4 oz avocado
- 2 cloves fresh garlic
- 2 fresh scallions, chopped
- 2 tbsp fresh dill
- 2 tbsp fresh basil
- 1/4 cup diced red onion
- 2 cooked chicken breasts (rotisserie works great)
- 1/2 tsp kosher salt
Directions
- Add the mayo, Greek yogurt, avocado, white wine vinegar, lemon zest and juice, garlic, dill, basil, scallions, and kosher salt to a food processor.
- Blend until the mixture forms a thick, creamy, and smooth dressing.
- Shred the cooked chicken into a large bowl and stir in the diced red onion.
- Pour the Green Goddess dressing over the chicken.
- Mix until the chicken is evenly coated.
- Serve immediately or refrigerate for an easy, protein-packed meal prep lunch.
Skip the Referral. Start Healing Today.
You don’t need a doctor’s referral to start feeling better. With Direct Access in Idaho, you can begin physical therapy at Rebound right away—saving time, reducing pain, and getting back to the activities you love faster. Our expert team will evaluate your condition, create a personalized treatment plan, and guide you every step of the way. Schedule your appointment today and take the first step toward recovery.
