4 Reasons Why Post-Surgical Physical Therapy Is So Important

Whether you're undergoing a hip replacement, open-heart surgery, or breast cancer treatment, incorporating physical therapy into your recovery journey is critical in your return to normal life. 

At High Quality Home Therapy in Stamford, Connecticut, Caryn McAllister, PT, DPT, and our team of experienced physical therapists, exercise physiologists, bodyworkers, and occupational therapists help you heal, restore function, and return to your daily activities following surgery. 

We deliver customized therapy for all ages, including children, adults, and seniors, at our beautiful, state-of-the-art clinic in Stamford, CT, and in patients’ homes. Patients can work with the same therapists each session, benefiting from continuity of care for the most effective rehabilitation.

We offer multiple modalities, including ultrasound, biofeedback, electric stimulation, compression therapy, Pilates, occupational therapy, yoga, personal training, and manual therapies, such as medical massage, myofascial release, craniosacral therapy, and Thai yoga.

We aim to deliver safe and exceptional rehabilitation to everyone, regardless of age, size, gender, sexual orientation, or ability. At-home physical therapy is as effective (if not more effective) than services provided in an office. Our goal is to help you to feel the best you can.

Here are four compelling reasons to make post-surgery physical therapy part of your healing process.

Speedier healing with fewer complications

Post-surgical physical therapy is crucial to promoting faster healing and minimizing the risk of complications. We prescribe gentle exercises and targeted movements to prevent the formation of scar tissue, enhance blood circulation, and reduce inflammation. 

If you follow a structured rehabilitation plan, your recovery is more likely to go smoothly. We minimize the likelihood of postoperative complications by choosing appropriate exercises for your stage of healing, so you avoid doing too much too soon. 

As you regain your range of motion and become stronger, we revise the exercises so you continue to improve.

Return to function

After surgery, it's normal to experience a temporary reduction in the range of motion and functionality in the affected area. This is especially true if you’ve undergone abdominal surgery or a joint replacement. 

Physical therapy focuses on gradually restoring function through a combination of stretching, strengthening, and mobility exercises. 

We work closely with you to customize exercises that address specific limitations, allowing for a more comprehensive recovery and a quicker return to daily activities.

We tailor therapies to help you accomplish basic tasks, like getting dressed. When we visit your home, we see the environment you navigate and customize exercises to fit your space and routine.

Experience more comfort

Pain is a common concern following surgery, and effective pain management is a major part of your recovery. Our physical therapists use a range of techniques, including therapeutic exercises, manual therapy, and heat or cold therapy to ease pain, stiffness, and discomfort. 

By addressing pain, we help you feel more comfortable during your physical therapy so you can get the most out of the exercises. 

Prevent additional health problems

Post-surgical physical therapy goes beyond the immediate recovery period; it also plays a key role in preventing secondary health issues that can develop due to prolonged immobility or improper healing.

Physical therapy helps you avoid complications like muscle atrophy and joint stiffness. 

We also help prevent compensatory behaviors that could compromise your posture and gait. For example, physical therapy helps prevent the development of a limp following joint replacement surgery.

We help you maintain proper body mechanics and provide strategies to prevent the development of long-term issues, including weight gain or loss of function, such as the ability to reach overhead after shoulder surgery.

Our home physical rehabilitation services support your recovery from surgery. You don’t have to worry about the hassle of traveling and waiting in an office — we come to you. 

Call today or use our online tool to schedule an appointment with High Quality Home Therapy. We look forward to working with you in our home or yours!