Pre & Post-Operative Rehabilitation

At UHS Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation, we offer comprehensive pre- and post- operative rehabilitation programs that are tailored to the needs of the patient.

Pre-Operative Rehabilitation:

These programs are specially designed by therapists to meet the individual needs of the patient prior to surgery to promote optimal outcomes post-surgery. The goals of a pre-operative rehabilitation program include:

• Mentally preparing for surgery
• Reducing pain and inflammation prior to surgery
• Maximizing range of motion and muscular control of the injured body part
• Gate training
• Educating patients on what to expect after surgery; precautions and post-surgical exercises
• Improving overall well-being and fitness

Post-Operative Rehabilitation:

Physical Therapy is usually indicated post-operatively following an orthopedic operation to speed recovery and return to normal functional activities. At UHS Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation, we work closely with the orthopedic surgeons to ensure continuity of care and timely evaluation of patients post-surgery.

A post-operative rehabilitation plan is established to promote healing, reduce pain and swelling, and restore joint mobility, flexibility and strength; all while ensuring the integrity of the surgery. The therapist works with the patient to set functional goals that are specific to the patients’ needs. Post-operative therapy usually progresses through phases. The first phase, immediately following surgery, concentrates on reducing pain and swelling. In the following phases, treatment focuses on corrective exercise and manual techniques to improve and restore range of motion, strength and dynamic stability striving toward the ultimate goal of return to pre-injury function.

Post-Operative Treatments may include:

• Modalities to reduce pain and swelling such as ice, heat, vasopneumatic compression and electrical stimulation
• Therapeutic exercises to improve range of motion, strength and flexibility
• Balance, posture and coordination training
• Manual therapy techniques
• Gait training
• Education on prognosis
• Home exercise program instruction