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Going through surgery or an orthopaedic injury often leaves people wondering what recovery will look like. Experiencing anxiety or uncertainty at this period is normal. This phase is when physical therapy plays an important role in helping you heal and get back to your normal routine.
It’s not just something that happens after surgery; in many cases, it begins before. Starting therapy beforehand can help the body prepare, making the post-surgery recovery smoother and more effective. Research shows that patients who took part in pre-surgical physical therapy, particularly before joint replacement, needed almost 30% less care afterwards.
In this blog, we’ll dive into why physical therapy is essential to orthopaedic care, how it helps you heal, and what to expect, particularly when recovering from procedures like knee replacement surgery.
Synopsis
Common Orthopaedic Injuries Requiring Physical Therapy
Several orthopaedic conditions benefit greatly from early and sustained physical therapy intervention, including:
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Sprains and Strains: Therapy reduces pain, improves flexibility, and strengthens muscles and ligaments to prevent re-injury.
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Tendon and Ligament Tears: Physical therapy promotes healing and restores range of motion through gradual strengthening.
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Fractures: Once bones begin to heal, therapy helps with proper alignment, reduces stiffness, and rebuilds strength.
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Joint Dislocations: Therapy improves joint stability and muscle strength, helping patients regain control and coordination.
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Post-Surgical Recovery: Following procedures like joint replacements or ligament repairs, therapy supports healing and prevents complications.
Techniques Used in Physical Therapy
Physical therapy isn’t one-size-fits-all. Therapists tailor recovery plans using a variety of approaches based on individual needs and the nature of the injury. Common techniques include:
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Manual Therapy: Hands-on techniques such as joint mobilisation, soft tissue massage, and manual stretching reduce pain and improve joint function.
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Therapeutic Exercises: Strength, balance, flexibility, and endurance are the main goals of customised exercise regimens, which hasten recuperation.
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Modalities: Tools like ultrasound, electrical stimulation, cold and heat therapy, and laser therapy are used to reduce inflammation and encourage healing.
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Assistive Devices: Crutches, braces, orthotics, or walkers may be recommended to protect healing tissues and aid mobility.
Importance of Early Physical Therapy in Orthopaedic Recovery
Early intervention plays a pivotal role in achieving successful outcomes. Starting physical therapy soon can:
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Minimise pain and swelling
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Prevent stiffness and muscle atrophy
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Restore movement more quickly
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Reduce the risk of chronic complications
Delaying therapy, on the other hand, may lead to long-term limitations in mobility and function.
Pre-Operative Physical Therapy: Preparing for Surgery
Physical therapy before surgery—known as prehabilitation—can significantly impact postoperative outcomes. It helps by:
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Strengthening Muscles and Joints: Stronger muscles around the injured area can better support the joint post-surgery, easing recovery.
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Improving Flexibility and Joint Mobility: Addressing stiffness or restricted motion beforehand sets the stage for smoother post-surgical rehabilitation.
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Boosting Confidence: Patients who understand the therapy process before surgery often feel more in control of their recovery.
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Recovery After Surgery: A Closer Look
The recuperation after knee replacement is among the greatest examples of how important physical therapy is to orthopaedic healing. Postoperative therapy helps:
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Regain joint motion and flexibility
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Rebuild strength in the quadriceps and hamstrings
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Improve balance and walking patterns (gait)
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Prevent complications like stiffness or improper joint alignment
A structured rehabilitation plan typically starts within 24 hours of surgery and can last several months, gradually increasing in intensity as healing progresses.
Benefits of Physical Therapy for Orthopaedic Patients
Physical therapy has several advantages beyond only the physical:
Reduces Pain and Inflammation
Chronic pain is a common issue in orthopaedic care and may be caused by tendonitis, arthritis, or injury. Manual therapy and exercise help relieve pain naturally, reducing reliance on medications and encouraging active healing by targeting the
underlying cause.
Accelerates Recovery
By promoting circulation and tissue repair, therapy supports faster healing and return to daily activities.
Restores Strength and Mobility
Individuals with musculoskeletal conditions often experience severe mobility issues. Targeted exercises help rebuild muscle around the injury, increasing range of motion and supporting future joint health.
Prevents Complications
Therapy mitigates issues like muscle atrophy, joint stiffness, and scar tissue formation that can delay recovery.
Prevents Re-Injury
Physiotherapists evaluate how people move and spot any flaws, restrictions, or imbalances that can cause harm. By educating on proper body mechanics, posture, and movement techniques, the risk of future injuries is lowered.
Improves Long-Term Outcomes
A comprehensive therapy program lays the foundation for lasting strength and mobility, helping patients return to sports, work, or hobbies with confidence.
Psychological and Emotional Support
Recovering from surgery or injury can be emotionally taxing. Physical therapy boosts morale, reduces anxiety, and provides motivation through structured goals and milestones.
Conclusion
The road to recovery from an orthopaedic injury or surgery is more than just healing—it's about regaining independence, movement, and quality of life. Whether you're preparing for surgery, recovering from a fracture, or going through recovery after knee replacement, working with a skilled physical therapist can make all the difference. Consult an orthopaedic expert at Manipal Hospitals, Broadway, for a complete recovery from orthopaedic conditions. Book an appointment now.
FAQ's
Not all individuals with orthopaedic conditions require physical therapy. Individuals dealing with pain from common orthopaedic conditions can undergo a rehabilitation process to speed up recovery and improve function.
Through therapeutic exercises and treatments, physical therapy can help reduce the need for pain medications following surgery. However, before altering your prescription schedule, you should see your doctor.
The length of time may change based on the patient's health, level of devotion to the program, and the severity of their orthopaedic ailment. Most people may see changes within a few weeks.
Generally speaking, physiotherapy is safe when carried out under expert supervision. If you follow incorrect techniques or overexert yourself, then it may lead to complications.
You may be recommended some therapy exercises to be performed at home to supplement your regular sessions. Following these exercises can help you heal faster and obtain improved results.
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