Why Physical Therapy Is Key to a Successful Joint Replacement

Joint replacements can help you get back to an active life and reduce pain you’ve had leading up to the procedure. While the procedure alone is extremely important and helpful, your care should not end there. Physical therapy can help ensure a successful joint replacement that lasts.

Learn more by calling us at Chicago Orthopaedics or contacting Dr. Vasili Karas through our website. Read on for information about some of the top physical therapy benefits.

Starting physical therapy after a joint replacement

Physical therapy aims to help you achieve the best possible physical function of your body. At your first session, your physical therapist goes over your medical history, including your joint replacement surgery. They assess factors such as your current balance capabilities, physical strength, range of motion, motor function, and coordination. 

Based on this exam, a customized plan, likely involving care in the office as well as exercises for you to do at home, is formulated.

How physical therapy helps after joint replacement surgery 

Some 10% of people who’ve had a knee or hip replacement surgery end up displeased with their results. Prioritizing physical therapy after such a procedure is one way to help lower those odds. The specialized care can help bring about the following benefits:

• Build up of strength in the joint and surrounding muscles
• Improved circulation, especially right after surgery, to prevent blood clots
• Improved mobility of the joint
• Reduced post-surgical pain and swelling
• Restored normal movement of the joint

All of these benefits lend themselves to you being able to lead your life normally sooner and with a lower risk of injury. The more stable, flexible, and strong you are physically, the less likely you’ll be to take a spill or pull a muscle. 

Even a minor fall can slow down your recovery process. In severe cases, such incidents can lead to bone fractures or joint displacement.

Making the most of physical therapy 

The benefits of physical therapy will be most pronounced if you stick to your recommended treatment plan. Even once you start feeling significantly better, keep your scheduled appointments unless you’re instructed otherwise. 

Keep up with your home exercises, too, and let your physical therapist know if you’re struggling to do so. If a particular stretch or motion feels too painful, for example, discuss that so the therapist can make any needed adaptations.

To find out if physical therapy is a good option for you after a joint replacement procedure, contact us Chicago Orthopaedics today. We have three Chicago locations and an office in Hoffman Estates, Illinois.