When a joint becomes severely arthritic and the person is experiencing a lot of pain and disability it is probably time to have that joint replaced. The most common joints to be replaced are the hips, knees, and shoulders. There may also be a need to have spinal surgery due to nerve root compression and structural issues such as spondylolisthesis and scoliosis. After surgery it is very important for the patient to have some rehabilitation. The aim will be to regain movement and strength in the operated limb. Post- surgery the patient is likely to have a lot of inflammation around the operated area. For this, exercise, massage, and electrotherapy can help. Your physiotherapist will devise a treatment programme that is best suited to the operation you have had.
How this treatment helps
There are various situations where post-operative physiotherapy can help. These include:
- Reduced pain from inflammation
- Reduced muscle and joint tenderness
- Increased healing to muscles and tendons
- Reduced severity of bruising
- Increased flexibility and muscle endurance
- Reduced swelling from injury
