Post Surgical Rehabilitation in Miami

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The days and weeks following surgery are often difficult and daunting. Post-surgical rehabilitation therapy is crucial so that those undergoing surgical procedures have a program that allows them to recover quickly and effectively.

Our post-surgical rehabilitation programs in Miami are designed to guide you through rehabilitation with personalized care, focusing on restoring your strength and mobility. From orthopedic to neurological surgeries, each rehabilitation plan is crafted to meet your recovery needs, providing comprehensive support that encourages independence and well-being.

Types of Surgery Commonly Requiring Rehabilitation

Orthopedic Surgeries

Orthopedic surgeries cover a wide range of issues and injuries. Surgical procedures include:

  • Hip replacement
  • Knee, spine, hand, foot, wrist, and ankle surgeries
  • Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction
  • Carpal tunnel syndrome
  • Shoulder arthroscopy, among others

Common conditions requiring rehabilitation include physical therapy following knee and ankle surgeries, rehabilitation for carpal tunnel surgery, and physical therapy following meniscus surgery.

Thoracic Spine Surgeries

When back pain becomes unbearable and resistant to treatment, surgical intervention becomes necessary. Some popular procedures include:

  • Spinal fusion: also known as spondylodesis, involves fusing 2 or more vertebrae to eliminate movement between them.
  • Discectomy: a minimally invasive operation to remove herniated disc material.
  • Laminectomy: involves removing the lamina to expand the spinal canal and relieve pressure on the spinal cord.
  • Disc replacement: used to replace herniated discs by removing them and replacing them with artificial discs.

Neurological Surgeries

Doctors may prescribe these surgeries to treat conditions related to the brain and thoracic spine. Common procedures include:

  • Anterior cervical discectomy and fusion: addresses neck or arm pain as presented.
  • Resective surgery for epilepsy: used to eliminate seizures that have not responded to other methods and are potentially life-threatening.
  • Craniotomy: involves removing part of the skull to access the brain. Depending on the need, this operation can treat various conditions such as removing tumors or blood clots, relieving pressure after a stroke, and treating aneurysms.

Other Types of Operations Requiring Rehabilitation

  • Meniscus repair: minimally invasive arthroscopic surgery used to repair or replace menisci, the knee's cartilage.
  • Achilles tendon repair surgery: performed when there is a rupture in the area. The surgeon makes an incision around the tendon to remove or repair it.
  • Rotator cuff repair: used to repair shoulder tendons and requires physical therapy for the rotator cuff.
  • Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) repair: this procedure is performed using the patient's tissue that can be obtained from various parts such as the hamstring tendon, quadriceps, patellar tendon, or iliotibial band. The choice of tissue will vary depending on the patient. It is done arthroscopically, qualifying as non-invasive.

Benefits of Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation in the Post-Surgical Recovery Process

There are numerous benefits to physical therapy that help patients in their recovery process, some of which may be less obvious than others. Physical therapy after surgery, more than a supplement, is a necessity for those looking to solidify the benefits of their surgery and strengthen the operated area.

  • Patient education: Learning how to care for the affected area and overall health plays a significant role in preventing new injuries or a recurrence of conditions that have already been treated.
  • Pain management: Patients who choose to undergo surgery do so because of debilitating pain. However, there will also be some degree of pain after surgery. Post-surgical rehabilitation therapists specialize in pain management and in making the postoperative process as bearable as possible.
  • Strengthening muscles and improving balance: After surgery, people may experience loss of balance and weakness in the treated area, especially after a long period of inactivity. Physical therapy ensures that patients regain strength and balance so they can function normally.
  • Restoring range of motion: This is one of the primary areas addressed by physical therapy. Although some people may be fearful of moving the operated area, this is one of the most important elements in reducing complications in rehabilitation therapy after surgery.
  • Support and motivation: Frustrations during the recovery process are normal, which is why adopting the right mindset is crucial. A good physical rehabilitation program after surgery takes into account the importance of mindset in the postoperative physical rehabilitation process.

How Soon Should Physical Therapy Begin After Surgery?

There are no standard answers to this question, as several factors come into play in determining when is the best time to start rehabilitation. Variables to consider include the type of surgery, the patient's overall health, and their age. Although there are no exact times, there are a series of periods that serve as general guidelines.

From the first to the third day, basic movements such as getting out of bed and walking to the bathroom should begin. Physical therapy may be prescribed after the first week. After the first month, patients may resume activities they did before the operation while continuing physical therapy.

It is important to emphasize that these are very general estimates and can vary greatly. Just because your recovery process does not fit within the times mentioned here does not mean there are complications. Each case is different, and you should discuss your recovery expectations with your assigned physical therapist at the post-surgery rehabilitation center.

Components of Our Post-Surgical Rehabilitation Program in Miami

Each program will be prepared individually for the patient, taking into account the variables mentioned above, in order to maximize results. Additionally, exercises that can be performed at home will be assigned in addition to the work at the post-surgery rehabilitation center.

Initial Evaluation and Goal Setting

Comprises a detailed examination of the type of injury, the surgery performed, and the patient's response to the surgical process.

Customized Treatment Plans

It is important to create a post-surgical physical therapy program that takes into account the person's needs, strengths, and limitations. By creating individual treatments, the effectiveness of post-surgery physical therapy is significantly increased.

Therapy Sessions and Modalities

Once the patient's needs and therapy sessions have been established, different modalities available in post-surgery rehabilitation will be used. The focus may be on restoring mobility, increasing strength, reducing pain and inflammation, assisting in the recovery of musculoskeletal conditions, restoring or increasing range of motion, or a combination of these.

Modalities in Post-Surgical Physical Therapy We Use

  • Joint mobilization
  • Electrical stimulation or TENS
  • Massages
  • Application of cold and heat
  • Iontophoresis
  • Laser therapy
  • Kinesiology tape
  • Traction
  • Passive or active exercises

Monitoring Progress and Adjustments

As the patient progresses in their treatment, evaluations will be conducted to assess their response, and adjustments may be made to the modality used, the frequency of sessions, or the type of treatment in general. If positive results are shown, the number of sessions may be reduced or more home treatments assigned.

Completion of Treatment and Additional Recommendations

Once it has been determined that the patient has made sufficient progress to resume their activities and continue with physical therapy care for post-surgery rehabilitation on their own, they may be discharged with personalized recommendations to continue their recovery and prevent future injuries.

Why Choose ZenCare as Your Rehabilitation Center in Miami?

At ZenCare, we are committed to aligning our goals with those of the patients who visit our post-surgery rehabilitation center. We have a team with years of experience who deeply understand the needs, difficulties, and frustrations that people go through in their recovery process. Our tailored plans are designed to achieve the best results in the shortest possible time, without sacrificing quality and long-term benefits.

Tips for Successful Rehabilitation

The following tips will help you make the most of your rehabilitation therapies after surgery:

  • Set achievable goals
  • Monitor and measure your progress with the help of your physical therapist
  • Maintain consistency in your appointments and home exercises
  • Consult with your rehabilitation therapist about any emerging concerns
  • Do not overdo exercises, as this is counterproductive
  • Take notes of your progress
  • Use psychological strategies to maintain the right attitude in your recovery journey

Contact Us and Start Your Rehabilitation Treatment Today!

At ZenCare, we know you want to get back to your life as it was before surgery as soon as possible, and our team is equipped with all the knowledge and experience necessary to make your goals a reality. Don't wait to start your journey to recovery—schedule your first appointment today.

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