Pre-op PT
Preoperative physical therapy is implemented before major surgical interventions such as ACL repair, total knee/hip/shoulder replacement, and more. The purpose of this is to maximize strength in the surrounding muscles, increase flexibility, and maximize range of motion prior to surgery. Is there any evidence to show this is beneficial?
Recovery Benefits
A recent study examined the musculoskeletal benefits of receiving pre-op physical therapy before surgery. The study examined patients who would be receiving knee replacements. It found increased knee flexion strength, hip abduction strength, flexion and extension range of motion, and decreased pain in subjects who received pre-op PT compared to those who did not at the same time intervals post-surgery (Calatayud 2017). This allowed patients who received pre-op PT a quicker recovery and return to their common daily routines and activities.
Financial Benefits
The benefits of pre-op PT will not only help your musculoskeletal recovery but also will save you time and money. Another study examined the financial differences in patients receiving pre-op PT and those who did not receive the same surgery. The study shows there is a 29% decrease of services required post-op in patients who received pre-op PT (Snow 2014). This has come out to an average reduction of $871 (Snow 2014).
How Do I Get Started?
If you are or will be undergoing surgery soon, contact the Respire PT Team today by phone at 703-671-1871 or click here to request an appointment with a Physical Therapist. Let us help you get back to your favorite activities at a faster and less expensive rate through preoperative physical therapy.
References
- Snow, Richard DO, MPH; Granata, Jaymes MD, MBA; Ruhil, Anirudh V.S. PhD; Vogel, Karen BS; McShane, Michael MD; Wasielewski, Ray MD. Associations Between Preoperative Physical Therapy and Post-Acute Care Utilization Patterns and Cost in Total Joint Replacement. The Journal of Bone and Joint Surgery 96(19):p e165, October 1, 2014. | DOI: 10.2106/JBJS.M.01285
- Calatayud J, Casaña J, Ezzatvar Y, Jakobsen MD, Sundstrup E, Andersen LL. High-intensity preoperative training improves physical and functional recovery in the early post-operative periods after total knee arthroplasty: a randomized controlled trial. Knee Surg Sports Traumatol Arthrosc. 2017 Sep;25(9):2864-2872. doi: 10.1007/s00167-016-3985-5. Epub 2016 Jan 14. PMID: 26768606.
Tags: pain free living, physical therapist, post operative care, physical therapy after joint replacement, Pre and Post Surgical Rehab, choosept, arlingtonva, alexandriava, fallschurchva, movement freedom, Physical Therapy, ptworks, Respire Physical Therapy
