Physical Therapy and Surgery!

We know the thought of surgery can be scary, and we’re here to help every step of the way!

In many cases, physical therapy can help you avoid surgery altogether as it’s been shown to be as effective as surgery in treating a wide range of conditions from rotator cuff tears and degenerative disc disease, to meniscal tears and some forms of osteoarthritis. If you haven’t seen a physical therapist for your injury, we highly recommend an evaluation before moving forward with surgery.

However, if surgery is the best option, then physical therapy will be an integral part of your successful recovery. Working with a physical therapist before and after surgery is proven to promote healing and lead to a faster, more complete recovery while minimizing complications and risk of re-injury.

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Physical Therapy Before Surgery (Prehab)

Pre-habilitation is for patients who hope to avoid surgery altogether or who want to set themselves up for the best possible surgical recovery. Prehab has been shown to increase outcomes, shorten hospital stays, and help patients regain strength faster. Here are a few specific ways your physical therapist will help you prepare for successful surgery. Your DPT will…

Paint a picture of what you can expect from your surgery so you’re mentally prepared
Prepare individualized flexibility and strengthening exercises to condition your body before surgery
Outline precautions and a plan for after surgery
Provide instruction on the use of assistance devices such as a crutches, brace, etc.
Recommend home adaptations that will improve safety and help your recovery

Physical Therapy After Surgery

After you are discharged from the hospital and home based rehab (where applicable), continuation of outpatient physical therapy is essential to restore your function to its highest possible level. Your surgeon and physical therapist will work as a team to ensure your successful recovery. Your physical therapist will work with you on the following areas:

Range-of-Motion Exercises. Your physical therapist can teach you safe and effective exercises to restore movement (range of motion), so that you can perform your daily activities.

Strengthening Exercises. As your mobility returns, you’ll be guided through a customized strengthening program.

Functional Training. Your PT will help you regain everyday movements, such as walking, taking stairs or fastening your seat belt, etc.

Sport-Specific and Job Training. Your physical therapist will design a personalized program so you can go back to your your specific sport, job tasks or leisure activities without pain. The timeline will vary from person-to-person based on your specific condition.

Body awareness and balance training. Based on your goals, activity level and general health, your you’ll also do balance activities to keep you safe and healthy long term. Your DPT may also add agility exercises (such as turning and changing direction when walking, or making quick stops and starts).

Patient Success Stories

Anterior Cruciate Ligament - click here to read Lance’s story of getting back on the basketball court only 6 months after surgery
Joint Replacement Surgery - click here to see what it’s really like to have knee or hip replacement

“Iron PT allows you the opportunity to heal correctly and relearn how to use muscles properly. I look back at it my time here and am in disbelief of how far I have come. I went in on crutches and wearing a boot on my leg. I wasn't able to even get up my stairs. It is five months later, and I am running again.”
- Wendy, Runner

“Knee surgery brought me to physical therapy. Iron PT has encouraged me to realize the importance of committing to a healthy and fit regimen that has ultimately changed my life. I have never felt stronger physically and mentally!
-Rosalie, Skier

“After many experiences with rehab (five previous knee surgeries), I can tell you, physical therapy at Iron PT is the BEST! You have to commit to your therapy, but having a physical therapist who is 100% invested in your rehab is so crucial!! I've never experienced that like I did at Iron. I love everyone there, and even though I'm happy to be getting stronger, I'm really going to miss it there! I never thought I'd say that I'm going to miss my physical therapy.
- Rebecca, Crossfit Coach

Next Steps to Relieving your Pain with Iron Physical Therapy…

Give us a call or click here to send us a message! Our staff will be happy to speak with you more about possible treatment and answer any questions you may.

Caldwell, New Jersey: (973) 228-4766

Midland Park, New Jersey: (201) 857-8899