Orthopedic surgery—whether it’s a joint replacement, ligament reconstruction, or fracture fixation—is often a major step toward restoring mobility and alleviating chronic pain. However, the journey doesn’t end once the surgical procedure is completed. Physical therapy (PT) plays a pivotal role in the recovery process, ensuring patients regain strength, flexibility, and function as safely and effectively as possible. Below, we dive into the specific, detailed benefits of post-operative physical therapy.
One of the primary goals of physical therapy post-surgery is to help patients return to their normal activities faster. Early mobilization and structured movement help stimulate circulation, decrease inflammation, and prevent complications like blood clots or joint stiffness. PT helps prevent post-surgical complications such as deep vein thrombosis (DVT), initiates healing with controlled movement, and encourages quicker transition from bed rest to walking and functional movement.
Orthopedic surgery can leave joints stiff and muscles tight. Without targeted stretching and mobilization, scar tissue can form, limiting movement. PT helps improve range of motion post surgery. Specifically PT addresses this through customized flexibility routines to gradually restore full motion. It also provides manual therapy techniques to reduce adhesions and stiffness while also using modalities like heat and ultrasound to loosen tissue before stretching.
After surgery, muscles often weaken due to disuse and immobilization. Physical therapists guide patients through progressive strengthening exercises tailored to their specific condition and recovery stage to restore strength and re-educate one’s muscles. By targeting supporting muscle groups that may have weakened pre-surgery due to compensation, PT improves endurance for daily activities and long-term function through enhancing joint stability.
Post-operative pain is expected, but excessive use of opioids or anti-inflammatories can lead to side effects or dependency. Physical therapy offers non-pharmacological solutions for pain control. Some pain relief techniques include cold/heat therapy, electrical stimulation (e.g., TENS units), manual therapy and massage, and therapeutic exercises that prevent pain from inactivity or poor posture. It’s important to exhaust all non-opioid methods of pain management before relying exclusively on medicinal pain management.
Surgeries involving the lower extremities (e.g., hip or knee replacements) often disrupt normal walking patterns. PT is essential in retraining safe and efficient gait mechanics. It helps correct abnormal walking patterns and weight distribution while preventing secondary issues such as back pain from poor gait. This will also include balance training to reduce fall risk, especially in older adults.
Post-surgical patients are often at increased risk for compensatory movement patterns that can cause future injuries. Physical therapists mitigate this by teaching proper body mechanics and posture. During PT, they will monitor and correct movements to prevent overuse or re-injury. The final stage of PT includes developing a home exercise program to maintain gains.
Recovery isn’t one-size-fits-all. PT provides a dynamic approach to rehabilitation, constantly adapting based on the patient’s progress, pain levels, and functional goals. This ensures timely progression through recovery stages, identifies and addresses complications early, and empowers patients with education and active involvement in their recovery.
Studies consistently show that patients who engage in post-operative physical therapy experience better overall outcomes than those who don’t. This means patients who participate in PT will have greater joint function and range of motion in addition to increased ability to return to hobbies, work, and daily life.
Orthopedic surgery is just the first step in reclaiming mobility and function. Physical therapy transforms the procedure from a mechanical fix into a functional recovery. With expert guidance, personalized care plans, and consistent effort, patients can maximize their surgical outcomes and enjoy long-term success. If you or a loved one are planning or recovering from orthopedic surgery, don’t overlook the essential role of physical therapy. It’s the bridge between surgery and the life you want to live.
Dr. McMillan and Virtua Reconstructive Orthopedics partner with Virtua Physical Therapy, Strive Physical Therapy and many other outstanding local therapy clinics in the area to bring their patients optimal results and help them return to their best life.
Written by Kelly Reising vwho is passionate about nutrition, fitness and health.
Dr. Mc Millan is a Board-Certified orthopedic sports medicine surgeon practicing in the Virtua Health System of south Jersey. For more information please visit www.drseanmcmillan.com or follow us on twitter @sportsdrsean.
