Every surgery is different, and you should always follow the guidance of your doctor about when to get active and at what pace to start moving. However, most people having surgery will find that physical therapy is a core component of the recovery process. Knowing when to get started, how to know what to do, and trusting the process (with the help of a professional) can help you achieve your long-term recovery goals in a safe manner. Post-surgery physical therapy is a necessary part of the healing process, but you may have questions about what to expect.
How Soon After Surgery Should You Start Physical Therapy?
Your health at the time of the surgery, any complications you may have, and the type of surgery you have all play a role in when you can start therapy. Waiting too long could mean too much time goes by, and scar tissue forms. Doing too much too soon can lead to injuries that slow down your recovery even further.
However, chances are good you’ll need to start moving sooner than you think, often within hours or days after the procedure. That’s critical to helping your body move oxygen- and nutrient-rich blood to those areas to heal. You’ll start working with a physical therapist early on to build your strength and overall well-being. View this as a way to get back to a better quality of life.
The Post-Surgery PT Timeline
Always rely on your doctor’s recommendations for when and how to start physical therapy after surgery. Here’s a likely physical therapy schedule for otherwise healthy people.
First Week
Within the first 1 to 3 days, you’ll likely leave the hospital and start with some movement. Oftentimes, your doctor may not allow you to leave until you can safely support yourself. Starting exercises and strength training right away in the hospital is often the first step.
From there, you can expect your surgeon to schedule physical therapy with professionals within the first week. You’ll meet with your physical therapist and create a game plan, often starting with some basic measurement of your current abilities.
For some, those initial physical therapy appointments may focus on helping you get in and out of bed. Then, you’ll start working on standing before you start walking. The goal is not to wear you out, but to build your muscle strength steadily.
First Month
You’ll likely have some type of physical therapy to complete every day, though you may not meet with your physical therapist that often. Routine and consistent exercise, strength training, and movement help to build strength and support long-term recovery.
During the first four weeks, you can expect to participate in daily activities to gradually increase your strength and endurance. You’ll likely be taught strategies to move and flex the area where you had surgery in a way that’s safe and gradually builds to normal movement and range of motion.
First Three Months
Depending on your surgery and health, most people reach a steady level of recovery during the first three months. Your body will heal tissues, you’ll build muscles, and you’ll be able to increase your range of motion with consistent use.
Note that you’ll want to move at a pace that is right for you. If you just had knee replacement therapy, you are not likely to be doing a marathon in three months but you could move from a few steps at a time to being able to go back to work or walking around the neighborhood.
Your physical therapist will create specific steps for you to take to gradually increase your abilities in a safe manner. You’ll also learn strategies to help you do the tasks you need to throughout the day such as taking care of yourself. Most people are moving pretty well by the end of this period, but don’t be discouraged if you’re not quite where you want to be. It takes a great deal of time for your body to heal from surgery.
Six Months to a Year
By week 12 and onward, you’ll find that your body is moving at a gradually safer rate. Your pain should be little to none at this point, and you’ll likely be working with a physical therapist to strengthen your muscles, improve your range of motion, and achieve overall better function.
Your physical therapist will likely provide you with numerous strategies to follow during this time. You may be working towards much bigger goals, including restoring proper function to the treatment area.
Benefits of Post Surgery Physical Therapy
When you work with a physical therapist, you’ll have the tools and resources you need to support the healing process. Some of the benefits of post-surgical physical therapy include:
- Improved stability makes falling less likely
- Improved balance and overall confidence
- Lower pain levels
- Faster healing times
- Fewer complications from surgery
- Improved mental health
Tips for Successful Rehabilitation
When it comes to having success, there are several things to remember:
- It is likely that physical therapy will be uncomfortable at the start. That doesn’t mean you’ll be in pain, though.
- Physical therapy and movement, in general, could help reduce the discomfort you feel. Even if you don’t feel like it, do your best to stick with your treatment plan.
- Invest in your mental health, too. Healing is hard work, and you’ll want to reward yourself for your successes.
Find Expert Physical Therapists at Rock Valley PT
You do not have to navigate physical therapy on your own. Instead, let our team help you. At Rock Valley Physical Therapy, you’ll have a team of licensed professionals helping you to build strength and recover more effectively than you may have thought possible. Contact our team today to learn more about post surgery physical therapy and the treatment options available to you.