The Benefits of Pre-hab and Post-Op Therapy
Bounce Back Faster With PT Before And After Surgery
Have you ever wondered how to ensure a smooth recovery after surgery? Do you want to minimize pain and get back to your normal activities as quickly as possible? If you answered yes to either of these questions, then pre-hab and post-op physical therapy may be just what you need.
All About Pre-habilitation
Think of pre-hab as preparing your body for the challenges of surgery and recovery. Just like an athlete trains before a big game, pre-hab prepares your body for the “game” of surgery.
Benefits of Pre-hab
- Improves strength and mobility, making surgery and recovery easier.
- Reduces pain and swelling before surgery.
- Can help shorten hospital stays.
- Decrease the risk of complications.
- Helps you understand what to expect after surgery, reducing anxiety.
What To Expect in Pre-hab
- Manual therapy to improve circulation and help manage inflammation and reduce pain.
- Exercises to improve range of motion, strength, and overall mobility.
- Education on after-surgery pain management and proper surgical site care.
- Breathing exercises and relaxation techniques to manage anxiety.
Post-op Physical Therapy
Post-op physical therapy is all about rehabilitation and restoring your body to its optimal function after surgery.
Benefits of Post-op Physical Therapy
- Reduces pain and inflammation.
- Improves range of motion and overall mobility.
- Strengthens muscles and improves overall function.
- Prevents complications like blood clots and infections.
- Helps you regain independence and return to your daily activities.
Common Surgeries Where Pre-hab and Post-op PT Have Great Results
Joint Replacements
Pre-hab strengthens the muscles surrounding the joint, making surgery and recovery smoother. Post-op PT helps regain range of motion and strength, allowing you to return to your favorite activities.
Spinal Surgeries
Pre-hab focuses on core strengthening and flexibility, crucial for spinal stability. Post-op PT helps you regain mobility and strength, reducing pain and improving function.
ACL Reconstruction
Pre-hab reduces or eliminates swelling, improves range of motion, and strengthens the muscles surrounding the knee, preparing it for surgery. Post-op PT is essential for regaining range of motion, strength, and stability, allowing you to return to activities.
Rotator Cuff Repair
Pre-hab focuses on shoulder mobility and strength. Post-op PT is vital for regaining range of motion, strength, and function, allowing you to return to overhead activities.
Pre-hab and Post-op PT With IMG Physical Therapy
Your first pre-op appointment is an important step toward a successful surgery and recovery. At your first visit, our experienced physical therapists will conduct a thorough evaluation of your current physical condition, including your strength, injury, range of motion, and any existing limitations. We’ll discuss your surgical procedure and recovery goals to create a personalized pre-hab plan tailored to your specific needs. Our goal is to empower you with the knowledge and tools you need to optimize your physical preparedness for surgery, setting the stage for a smoother and faster recovery.
Your recovery starts before surgery. Invest in pre-hab and post-op PT, and get back to doing what you love sooner. Contact us today to schedule an appointment!
Preparing for Opening Day
I cannot tell you how happy I am that I get to write the March Newsletter. There are so many great things about March. You have the beginning of Spring, NCAA March Madness basketball tournament, Opening Day of Baseball, my birthday, and the opening day of trout season. Now before anybody gets too upset, April 5, 2025 is Opening Day of trout season this year in our part of PA. However, the preparation / planning for the first day of fishing has already begun for me.
To be 100% honest with you, the actual fishing is probably my least favorite part of opening day. That probably explains why if I am lucky I only get out 3 times a year (which includes the first day). What I love is the tradition of Opening Day. For 40+ years my family (blood and fishing family) have gotten together for this special day. It always involves breakfast, a lot of trash talking, recounting past years and lost friends, and hopefully a lot of fish that we catch and release. As you get older, watching your son and the younger generation catch more than you is much more a thrill than trying to catch the most yourself. I could type a whole chapter about Opening Day, that is how excited I am. If you are out on April 5 on the Manatawny River near the Tiki bar, look for me. If I am tangled in the tree….don’t tell anybody!!
With Spring right around the corner, what are you preparing for after this long winter? Is your body ready for whatever you have planned? Do you have the normal winter aches and pains (arthritis) bothering you? Could you use a “tune-up” or a LASER treatment to help ensure you can do everything you are hoping to do? If so please call the office and we would be happy to set you up for a consult or laser treatment. I have (6) 1 session free trial appointments to see if the LASER will help you for March. They will go fast, so if you would like to see if the LASER will help you or a loved one, please call today.
Have a great Spring. Look for the results of the March Madness office punishment bets. We look forward to seeing those who need to drop off their basketball brackets in the middle of March.
Patient Spotlight
“The staff was great. Very accommodating in scheduling, working around my schedule. Eric and Chris worked on my knee. And after my PT sessions I
was pain free.”
—John B.
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Proactive Strategies To Keep Neck Pain At Bay
Neck pain can be a major disruptor that impacts our ability to work, enjoy hobbies, and even get a good night’s sleep. Physical therapy is excellent for treating existing neck pain, but proactive measures to prevent it in the first place can save us from discomfort and inconvenience down the line. Here are some key strategies to keep your neck healthy and pain-free:
Postural Awareness
- Be mindful of your posture throughout the day. Avoid slouching or hunching your shoulders, especially when sitting at a desk or using electronic devices.
- You are meant to move, and so is your posture. We’ll teach you how to find the ideal positions and postures for the activities you enjoy most.
- If you work at a computer, ensure your monitor is at eye level, and your keyboard and mouse are within easy reach to avoid straining your neck.
Ergonomics
- Evaluate your workspace and make adjustments to promote good posture and reduce strain on your neck.
- Consider using an ergonomic chair, keyboard, and mouse to support proper alignment.
- Take frequent breaks to stand up, stretch, and move around, especially if you have a sedentary job.
Strengthen and Stretch
- Regularly perform exercises that strengthen the muscles in your neck, shoulders, and upper back.
- Simple exercises like neck rotations, shoulder shrugs, and chin tucks can make a big difference.
- Incorporate stretching into your routine to improve flexibility and reduce muscle tension.
Lifestyle Adjustments
- Maintain a healthy diet to minimize inflammation.
- Get regular physical activity to improve overall strength and mobility.
- Exercises, as stress can contribute to muscle tension and pain.
Contact us today for personalized strategies to prevent neck pain from starting. A little effort today can go a long way in protecting your neck health for years to come!
March 1st
March 14th
March 19th
Women’s History Month
Exercise of the Month
Cervical Retraction and Extension With Towel
Start by standing up straight. Wrap a towel around the back of your head and hold the ends with both hands in front of you. Tuck your chin, pushing your head back into the towel and then raise your chin up towards the ceiling against the towel. Return to start. Repeat 3 sets, 10 reps each.
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Don’t let pain dictate your life. Take the first step towards reclaiming your mobility and well-being with our expert support. Start your journey to a healthier you today.
