Patellar surgery addresses conditions such as patellar fractures, dislocations, or chronic pain due to patellar tendinitis, aiming to stabilize the kneecap, alleviate pain, and restore proper knee function. Depending on the severity and type of injury, different surgical techniques may be employed, and each requires a dedicated rehabilitation process to ensure optimal recovery. Twin Boro Physical Therapy in Freehold, NJ, offers specialized care to help patients navigate recovery after knee surgery.
The Role of Physical Therapy in Recovery
At Twin Boro Physical Therapy, each patient receives a personalized plan based on a thorough assessment of their medical history, surgery type, and current condition. This individualized approach ensures optimal recovery by setting realistic and achievable
goals. The primary objectives of physical therapy after patellar surgery include:
Pain Management and Swelling Reduction
Immediately following surgery, physical therapists utilize various techniques to address pain and swelling, setting the stage for further rehabilitation.
- Cryotherapy: Applying cold packs to the knee helps reduce inflammation and numb pain.
- Compression: Using bandages or compression sleeves to control swelling and promote healing.
- Elevation: Keeping the leg elevated helps minimize fluid buildup and swelling.
Restoring Range of Motion
One of the primary goals in the early stages of recovery is to restore the knee’s range of motion, which helps promote function and avoid long-term complications.
- Passive Range of Motion Exercises: The therapist gently moves the patient’s knee to increase flexibility and prevent stiffness.
- Active Range of Motion Exercises: Patients perform movements independently, under supervision, to regain normal joint function.
Strengthening Muscles
The muscles around the knee can become weak due to inactivity after surgery. Strengthening these muscles is crucial for stability, function, and injury prevention.
- Isometric Exercises: Involve contracting muscles without moving the joint, ideal for early recovery.
- Progressive Resistance Exercises: Gradually introduce weights and resistance bands to build muscle strength, particularly in the quadriceps, hamstrings, and calf muscles.
Improving Balance and Proprioception
Patellar surgery can impact balance and proprioception (the body’s ability to sense its position and movement). Therapists incorporate exercises to restore these crucial skills, such as:
- Balance Training: Exercises like standing on one leg or using balance boards to improve stability.
- Proprioception Drills: These tasks help patients become more aware of their body’s position and movement, reducing the risk of falls and reinjury.
Functional Training for Daily Activities
As patients progress, the focus shifts to functional training, preparing patients for specific activities they need to perform daily or in their sport.
- Functional Movements: Practicing everyday movements like walking, climbing stairs, and squatting to ensure the knee can handle daily tasks.
- Sport-Specific Drills: These are exercises for athletes that mimic the movements required in their sport, such as running, jumping, and pivoting.
Preventing Future Injuries
To prevent reinjury, Twin Boro therapists guide on:
- Proper Warm-Up Techniques: Teach patients how to prepare their bodies for physical activity.
- Safe Movement Patterns: Instruct patients on the correct way to perform movements to avoid undue stress on the knee.
- Ongoing Strength and Conditioning Programs: Develop routines to maintain knee strength and stability.
The Road to Recovery with Twin Boro
Recovering from patellar surgery requires a comprehensive and personalized approach to physical therapy. Twin Boro Physical Therapy is committed to providing the highest-quality care to help Freehold, NJ, patients regain their strength, mobility, and confidence. Trust Twin Boro to guide you on the road to recovery and a better quality of life after knee surgery. Call 732.554.2177 or schedule an appointment here to get started.
