By avoiding physical therapy, you’ll miss out on learning flexibility exercises. The decreased flexibility after surgery can keep healing from occurring as fast. This is because inflexible joints and tissue tend to have less blood flow, which means fewer nutrients can get to the ankle to run the healing process.
Is therapy necessary after ankle surgery?
Even if your ankle fracture has healed, you still need physical therapy to ensure your ankle and lower leg are in pristine condition. When a fracture occurs, the area is generally immobilized, so the body can heal the fracture.
What happens if you don’t go to physical therapy after surgery?
Decreased blood flow to the area can negatively affect healing at the surgical site. Muscles can weaken and atrophy if they go too long without use. Not learning or relearning proper movement can put stress on the knees.
How important is physical therapy after ankle surgery?
Physical therapy is a vital part of recovery after surgery. Not only can it help you heal faster, improve your flexibility and range of motion and minimize scar tissue development, it can help you manage pain levels without excessive use of prescription narcotics.
Is physical therapy necessary after foot surgery?
One of the most important aspects of healing after foot surgery is rebuilding strength. Most times, after a procedure, patients lose significant amounts of strength. Without proper rehabilitation, the strength in your foot may never be regained—this is why physical therapy is vital to recovery after foot surgery.
When can you start physical therapy after ankle surgery?
Physical Therapy: You will start physical therapy 6 to 8 weeks after surgery.
How long does it take to walk normally after ankle surgery?
It takes around six to 10 weeks to recover from a broken ankle. During this time, you will probably need to wear a cast or boot. Most people are able to walk normally again and resume their daily activities by around three months. Endurance will improve over time and as your strength improves.
Can I recover without physical therapy?
Without exercise and therapy, a patient might never regain their full range of motion again. This is, perhaps, one of the most important reasons you shouldn’t skip your therapist in the recovery stage of your surgery. It might be difficult and painful, but it will be worth it in the end.
How important is physical therapy after surgery?
Physical therapy helps patients regain mobility and recover faster, and it ensures that any replacements or repairs made during surgery heal properly. Physical therapy is also an excellent option for managing pain and helps many patients avoid or limit opioid medications.
What happens if you don’t do PT after knee surgery?
Why you shouldn’t skip physical therapy after knee surgery
Supporting muscles and soft tissue can begin to atrophy due to nonuse and swelling. Increased strain can be put on the knee from improper movement. Range of motion can be diminished. The healing process can be slowed down due to lack of blood flow to the area.
How long does physical therapy take for a broken ankle?
In general, physical therapy for a broken ankle lasts about 6 to 8 weeks. Your personal experience with PT may be shorter or longer depending on your specific injury. Continuing your home exercise program is a component of your rehabilitation.
How long do you need physical therapy after surgery?
Since it typically takes six to eight weeks for soft tissue to heal, you should plan to participate in therapeutic activities for at least that long.
How can I speed up recovery after foot surgery?
Elevation is crucial to a fast recovery as it helps with pain and swelling. Elevate above the hip level. This is the most beneficial position as it helps bring blood away to reduce pressure and lessen pain. Also, use ice or ice packs soon after surgery by applying for 20 minutes on and then 20 minutes off.
How do you rehab after foot surgery?
Plan on doing nothing more than resting and elevating your limb for the first two weeks after your surgery. Keep your cast or bandage dry and do not change it. Resume your normal medications, unless directed otherwise. Take your pain medications as directed.