Orthopedic Knee Surgery

Avoiding total joint replacement surgery  on the knee or hip with physical therapy is the best road to recovery.

Due to arthritis, you may need total hip or knee joint replacement surgery in your later years. Physical Therapists may prevent or delay a surgery by showing individuals pain management skills, exercises, and stretches that improve function. Ultrasound, low level laser, electric stimulation, and taping techniques are other ways used to assist with pain management.

To find the source of the pain in your leg, Physical Therapists will evaluate you. A qualified Physical Therapist will customize a program to match your rehabilitation needs and abilities. You will also learn how to put only small amounts of stress on your joint that has been injured, so that the pain will be minimized.

If joint replacement surgery is unavoidable, it is recommended that in order to know what to expect after surgery, you begin working with an experienced Physical Therapist prior to your surgery.

After  total joint replacement surgery, why is Physical Therapy so essential?

A well thought out exercise regimen will increase the function of your new joint. Weak strength or range of motion post operation can leave some with limited walking and pain. The procedures your doctor performed will determine which strengthening and flexibility exercises you require. Some procedures will limit how you will be able to bend your leg or the weight you can put on it while it heals.

The exercises prescribed by your Physical Therapist should focus on strengthening your hip, trunk, and leg muscles and making them more flexible. Neuromuscular control is an important factor in the activity of leg muscles balance. Therefore, having a balance training added to the rehabilitation program to improve muscle co-ordination and movement patterns can be helpful. Your physical therapist will help you limit the effects of post-surgical scar tissue and muscle imbalances.

Rob Tendick is a physical therapy student who has helped rehabilitate patients after a total knee replacement. Rob knows firsthand the importance of trying to prevent surgery with physical therapy. Based on his experience Rob recommends Westwood Physical Therapy for outstanding physical therapy, including treatment for injury prevention. For more information visit westwoodpt.com.

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