A physical therapist is a well trained specialist taught to help restore your strength, motion and activity
​following an injury or surgery. Physical Therapists have specific techniques, stretches and exercises while
​using specialized equipment that can’t be managed without someone with proper PT training.

If you’ve undergone any type of surgery, chances are you’re experiencing a lot of pain, swelling, loss of
motion and bruising succeeding the procedure. Getting up and moving around after your surgery is one
of the most important things you can do to help you return to the activity level you were at prior to the
injury. While your physical therapist is probably going to tailor to your specific condition, the benefits
are often very similar and beneficial.

Moving right after your surgery will help improve the blood circulation to the specific spot of your injury.
Since your circulatory system is responsible for delivering fuel throughout your body, this can help
decrease swelling by removing the fluid that builds up in your body, especially in the area that suffered
the trauma. You will heal faster if you get the blood flowing to the area.

Stretching is vital for maintaining good flexibility and range of motion with joints and muscles. If you
have tight muscles or stiff joints, your normal day to day activities can be harshly effected. With
appropriate stretching, these kind of functions can be preserved. After an injury or surgery, scar tissue
forms as well as soft tissue contracts. It is extremely important to regularly stretch in scenarios that
ensure the scar formation does not get in the way or harm your rehabilitation process.

Strengthening exercises are performed to help improve the function of your muscles. Usually after an
injury or surgery, you lose a lot of strength in those muscles that your body is used to using every single
day. The goal post operation or injury is to improve/maintain range of motion, increase endurance and
regain strength. Post-operative exercises should always be guided by your physical therapist or doctor
since there may be specifics for the type of injury you have.

One of the most recent developments in physical therapy is the emphasis on core strengthening and
stability. The core of your body is extremely like the foundation of a house, the do all part of your body.
If you were to build your house on a feeble foundation, you could risk damage and collapse. Similarly,
bodies with a weak core are susceptible to acute injury and chronic overuse syndromes. Core
strengthening emphasizes the muscles in the back and pelvis.