Back surgery is a major undertaking. Even if minimally-invasive techniques are used and the procedure is performed in an outpatient setting, back surgery requires a comprehensive rehabilitation program that includes physical therapy. Without proper rehabilitation, patients who undergo back surgery could be immobilized, experience significant pain, and are at greater risk of injury.
Patients who undergo minimally-invasive back surgery have the opportunity to recover faster under the guidance of a physical therapist. Here are a couple of points that illustrate just how important physical therapy is after back surgery.
Safe and Supervised Exercises By A Licensed Professional
High-intensity exercises too soon can negatively affect the outcome of the surgery. There is a period following surgery when physical therapy exercises should be gentle and focused on getting the blood flowing. From there, you need a gradual increase in exercise according to your specific needs and recovery speed. A physical therapist is a licensed professional who is trained and experienced in teaching back surgery patients targeted stretching and strengthening exercises and the right way to do them. Generic exercises that you will find online are incomparable and could be dangerous since no two people, let alone back surgery patients, have the same needs.
Helps Patients Regain Strength and Mobility
A major benefit of minimally-invasive surgeries is that patients can recover faster, but it does require an excellent rehabilitation program to reap the full benefits. Physical therapists push patients to move soon after surgery, although in a safe (avoiding movements that may derail the surgeon’s work) and controlled environment, and prevent inactivity, which causes muscle weakness, loss of function, and delayed recovery. Movement after back surgery helps patients regain strength and mobility faster.
Reduce Postoperative Pain, Enhance Well-Being
Following back surgery, patients may experience postoperative pain. Physical therapy exercises have the added benefit of relieving pain. It can contribute to a reduced need for pain medication. Physical therapists are trained in the use of various techniques and modalities that can help decrease postoperative pain and stiffness.
Additionally, the exercises promote blood flow and trigger a release of endorphins, which improves a patient’s well-being. Some back surgery patients report falling into a depression after surgery due to a loss of mobility and independence. Physical therapists can push patients into reaching exercise goals. When patients see themselves moving forward with their recovery, it can benefit their mental and emotional health.
Physical Therapy in Rochester Hills, Bad Axe, and Lapeer, Michigan
As part of our on-site services, Ahlgren Spine provides physical therapy services to patients in recovery from surgery. Our comprehensive program includes manual therapy, pre- and post-surgical rehabilitation, exercises, therapeutic modalities, and balance and fall prevention.
Our licensed physical therapists work closely with you and your physician to provide the highest quality care. Let’s get you on the road to recovery from back surgery.
To schedule a consultation with a physical therapist, call Ahlgren Spine at (248) 215-8080 or request an appointment online now. We look forward to seeing you in our Rochester Hills, Bad Axe, or Royal Oak clinic.
