NEWSLETTER Your Resource for Health, Wellness, and Caring for Your Body INSIDE: • PT Solutions Our New Name! • The Road to Surgery • Seasonal Recipe
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One of our patients, who we’ll call Michael, was a middle-aged teacher with a passion for hiking; faced an unexpected challenge when a sharp pain in his knee turned into a persistent problem, affecting not only his favorite outdoor activities but also his ability to stand comfortably in front of his classroom. After several consultations, an MRI revealed a torn meniscus requiring surgery. The prospect of surgery was a big concern to Michael, who had never faced such a significant medical procedure. However, his orthopedic surgeon recommended a comprehensive approach to ensure the best possible outcome: engaging in pre- and postoperative physical therapy. The Road to Surgery: Preoperative Physical Therapy Understanding the importance of being in optimal physical condition for the surgery, Michael was referred to Loudoun Physical Therapy for preoperative care. Our goal was to maximize his range of motion and strengthen his knee as much as possible before the surgery to aid his recovery. Michael met with one of our physical therapists, who explained how pre-surgical physical therapy could make a significant difference in his recovery process. His therapist tailored a program focusing on building strength, improving his mobility, and getting him as prepared as possible for surgery and the recovery afterward. Preoperative physical therapy sessions included a variety of exercises designed to enhance the stability of Michael’s knee alongside manual therapy techniques to free up restrictions, mobilize his knee, and help manage his pain. TRANSFORM YOUR RECOVERY WITH PRE- AND POSTOPERATIVE PHYSICAL THERAPY
His therapist also educated Michael about how to best prepare mentally and physically for post-surgery rehabilitation. This proactive approach helped Michael enter the surgery with a stronger knee and equipped him with the knowledge and confidence needed to face his recovery. Navigating Recovery: Postoperative Physical Therapy After the surgery, Michael’s journey to recovery began with postoperative physical therapy. The first few sessions focused on managing pain and reducing swelling. These are crucial steps to ensure a solid foundation for more intensive rehabilitation. His physical therapist guided Michael through the following treatments: • Range of Motion Exercises: To gradually increase knee range of motion. • Strengthening Exercises: Targeting the quadriceps, hamstrings, and calf muscles to support knee stability. • Swelling and Pain Management: Using compression and elevation to reduce swelling and pain. • Manual Therapy: Soft tissue massage and joint mobilizations improve joint function and decrease pain. • Gait Training: To improve walking patterns and ensure proper weight distribution and knee alignment. • Balance and Proprioception Training: Exercises that help restore balance and knee joint position are crucial for preventing re-injury. • Functional Training: Focused on returning to daily activities and specific sports or hobbies with proper form and without pain.
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