It’s common knowledge that physical therapy after a total knee replacement or a partial knee replacement surgery is standard post-operative care for patients. But did you know that physical therapy before a knee replacement surgery can have a positive effect on your recovery? It’s true, and it’s a concept called “prehabilitation” – improving the function of your body and your joint in preparation for your knee replacement surgery.
By optimizing your current function, you can maximize your future potential. When patients and their families are educated and engaged prior to surgery, they are more comfortable with and prepared for the recovery process as well. Increased preparation can involve modifications at home, exercise engagement, and planning for post-operative issues and needs (such as ice packs, equipment, constipation/pain management techniques, transportation, and recovery area set-up and support).
Another important reason to undergo pre-operative PT is to establish a face-to-face relationship with your outpatient physical therapist ahead of time. Establishing a connection with your physical therapist ahead of time can be helpful as you work together through the recovery process after the procedure too.
How Physical Therapy Prior to Surgery Can Help
Doing physical therapy exercises before your knee replacement surgery can strengthen your knee and improve your knee’s range of motion. As a result, you will be in the best condition for knee replacement surgery and can improve your chances of a fast and easier recovery.
All pre-surgery exercises are carried out according to a patient’s tolerance level and ability. The most effective physical therapy exercises are done under the guidance of a physical therapist and overseen by a board-certified orthopedic surgeon.
It’s important to speak to your surgeon before you start any prehabilitation exercises. Your orthopedic surgeon will be able to recommend physical therapists who can best work with you to develop the right set of exercises to help ease your symptoms and better prepare you for surgery.
Board-Certified Orthopedic Surgeon Specializing in Hip and Knee Replacement Surgery in Raleigh, Durham, Apex, and throughout the Triangle Region of North Carolina
Dr. Brett Gilbert is a board-certified orthopedic surgeon specializing in the treatment of hip and knee osteoarthritis and hip and knee replacement surgery. He cares about the recovery of his patients and is a true believer in the benefits of physical therapy treatments before and after surgery.
His orthopedic offices in Raleigh, Durham, Apex, and throughout the Triangle region of North Carolina feature world-class facilities for physical therapy. Their in-house physical therapists can help better prepare you for your hip or knee replacement surgery. Continuity of care between your physical therapist and Dr. Gilbert himself is focused on seamless communication in terms of your progress and reporting, as well as treating any issues or answering any questions that may arise.
Dr. Gilbert looks forward to hearing from you. If you have any questions about physical therapy prior to your hip or knee replacement surgery, please call our office at (919) 788-8797. or you can request an appointment with Dr. Gilbert using our appointment request form, or you can self-schedule your appointment here.
