Orthopedic Rehabilitation

At Access Rehab, we want to make sure our patients are as prepared as possible for their upcoming treatments. That’s why we want to highlight exactly what you should expect when coming in for rehabilitation after surgical correction of an orthopedic injury.

Our licensed physical therapists utilize current treatment methods in conjunction with a wellness-based approach, in order to provide an encompassed treatment for each specific patient. For more information on what our targeted orthopedic rehabilitation plans look like, contact us to schedule a consultation today.

What is an orthopedic injury?

Before we can describe our rehabilitation services, it is important to define exactly what an orthopedic injury is. An orthopedic injury is any injury that results in damage to the musculoskeletal system (the bones and joints in your body) as a result of some trauma or accident.

Just a few of the most common surgeries for orthopedic injuries include shoulder surgeries, knee replacements, and anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) surgeries. While many orthopedic injuries are athletic-based, it is possible for them to develop from other causes. If you have undergone surgical repair for an orthopedic injury, don’t hesitate to contact us today to get started on a rehabilitation plan. We can help make your recovery process as smooth and quick as possible.

What should I expect from my rehabilitation plan?

Depending on the severity of your injury and the surgical procedure needed to correct it, your rehabilitation period may last anywhere from 4-12 weeks. You will undergo a physical evaluation to determine your strength, flexibility, and range of motion, and how it should be improved upon throughout your rehabilitation.

The beginning of your rehabilitation will be centered around the rest needed for your body to heal, in addition to some light and gentle movements. If the affected area needs to be immobilized for healing purposes, you will be provided with the necessary sling, cast, or brace. It is likely that it will be recommended not to try and move the affected area unless assisted by a physical therapist. 

Your body loses a lot of strength when undergoing a surgical procedure, and rehabilitation treatments are needed in order to help you regain your function. Your post-surgical rehabilitation plan will focus on targeted exercises and stretches that are aimed at helping relieve your pain, improve your strength, and redeem your optimum function in the affected area(s) of your body. It may also incorporate additional methods or modalities as needed, such as manual therapy, ice and heat therapies, ultrasound, electrical stimulation, and more. Essentially, it helps you make a full recovery from your surgery.

Throughout your rehabilitation plan, there will be goals set in place for each step along the way. Your end goal is a full recovery, which will be tracked by the smaller progress goals you make throughout your sessions. As your rehabilitation progresses, it is likely that you will also be provided with at-home stretches and exercises to complete on your own time, in order to maintain progress and recover as quickly as possible.

You will also be provided with helpful advice and techniques throughout your recovery for safely moving the recovering body part on your own and preventing further injuries in the future. If this was an athletic-based injury, your physical therapist will discuss when it will be safe to return to your sport, and any precautions you may have to take.

If you have a surgical procedure coming up for your orthopedic injury, contact us today to get set up with everything you’ll need for your orthopedic rehabilitation plan. We’ll design the best treatment plan for your needs, so you can be as prepared as possible once your surgery is complete. With our high-quality services and caring staff, you’ll be on the road to recovery in no time!