What Does Normal Healing Look Like? 

Normal healing after surgery involves several phases, including inflammation, tissue formation, and remodeling. It is a gradual process that varies depending on the type and extent of the surgery performed.

Here Are Some Surgeries We See Often

Holistic physical therapy supports healing after various surgeries, including:

• Total joint replacement (hip, knee, shoulder)

• ACL reconstruction

• Rotator cuff repair

• Spinal fusion

• Carpal tunnel release

• Meniscus repair

• Arthroscopic knee surgery

• Hip labral repair

• Discectomy

• Arthroscopic shoulder surgery

• Fracture repair with hardware (plates, screws, pins)

• Ligament repair (MCL, LCL, PCL)

• Bunionectomy

• Tendon repair (Achilles tendon, patellar tendon, etc.)

• Ankle fusion

• Microfracture surgery

• Arthroscopic wrist surgery

• Hip resurfacing

• Joint debridement

• Cartilage restoration procedures (ACI, MACI, OATS)

• C-section

How Do We Improve Healing with Holistic Physical Therapy? 

Holistic physical therapy employs a range of techniques to enhance post-surgical healing, including:

• Nerve Mobilization: Nerve mobilization techniques can help improve nerve gliding and reduce adhesions, which can be beneficial for patients experiencing nerve-related issues after surgery. These techniques involve gentle movements and stretches to encourage healthy nerve function and alleviate symptoms like tingling or numbness.

• Manual Therapy: Skilled manual therapists can use specialized techniques to address nerve compression or entrapment that may occur due to surgery or scar tissue formation. Manual therapy can promote better nerve blood flow and reduce tension, enhancing the nerve's ability to heal.

• Neuromuscular Reeducation: After surgery, nerves may need to relearn how to communicate with muscles properly. Neuromuscular reeducation exercises can help reestablish nerve-muscle connections, aiding in functional recovery and reducing the risk of complications.

• Electrical Stimulation: Nerve stimulation therapies, such as transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS), can be used to improve blood flow, reduce pain, and promote healing in the affected nerve area.

• Nutritional Support: Proper nutrition is essential for nerve health and healing. A diet rich in vitamins and minerals, especially those that support nerve function like B vitamins, can aid in nerve recovery and overall healing.

• Pain Management: Effective pain management is crucial for promoting healing after surgery. Nerve treatment can include modalities like acupuncture, heat therapy, or cold therapy to alleviate pain and inflammation, enabling patients to move and participate in rehabilitation more comfortably.

• Mind-Body Techniques: Stress and anxiety can negatively impact the healing process. Mind-body techniques, such as meditation or relaxation exercises, can help reduce stress and promote a positive healing environment for nerves and tissues.

• Customized Rehabilitation Programs: A personalized rehabilitation program that considers the specific surgical procedure and the individual's unique needs can optimize surgical healing, including nerve recovery.

• Early Mobilization: Controlled and guided early mobilization can prevent complications like nerve adhesions and improve circulation, supporting nerve healing and overall recovery.

• Patient Education: Providing patients with information about their nerve treatment plan, potential nerve-related symptoms to watch for, and self-care strategies can empower them to actively participate in their healing process.

What Are Some Symptoms of Poor Healing? 

Symptoms of poor healing after surgery may include:

• Persistent or worsening pain

• Excess swelling and inflammation

• Prolonged restricted range of motion

• Excessive scar tissue formation

• Delayed wound healing

What Are the Benefits of Getting Holistic Physical Therapy? 

The benefits of holistic physical therapy for post-surgical healing are transformative and essential for a successful recovery. Some key advantages include:

• Enhanced healing and tissue mobility.

• Pain relief and improved functional outcomes.

• Reduced risk of complications and post-surgical issues.

• Faster return to daily activities and hobbies.

Conclusion

Post-surgical healing is a vital phase in the recovery process, and holistic physical therapy offers invaluable support for a successful journey to restored function and well-being. By addressing individual needs and employing a comprehensive approach, this specialized care enhances healing, reduces pain, and promotes a faster return to daily activities. Don't let post-surgical issues hinder your path to recovery any longer. Empower yourself with the transformative benefits of holistic physical therapy. Book an appointment with our experienced team today and embrace a healing journey filled with hope, strength, and renewed vitality. Let us support you on the road to recovery and a brighter, healthier future.