Capital City Orthopaedics and Sports Medicine

Physical Therapy in Atlanta, GA

Expert Post-Op Physical Therapy and Care

When determining a best approach for orthopaedic treatment and care, Dr. Fowler takes into account a range of factors, many of which will be unique to the specific patient and condition present. These considerations include:

• Injury location
• Cause of damage
• Severity/progression of damage
• Patient bone structure, weight, and musculature
• Overarching patient health

Upon completion of a comprehensive examination, which may include a range of diagnostic tests, an approach for damage correction will be recommended. Initial efforts will likely focus on non-invasive techniques; however, if these approaches fail, surgical intervention may be required. Depending on the type of operation employed, as well as the initial factors impacting care (above), a personalized plan for ongoing recovery and rehabilitation will be provided.

Personalized Recovery Planning

Even the most minimally invasive procedures require attentive recovery planning and dedicated rehabilitation efforts. Immediately following surgery, special efforts will be taken to protect any sutures or stitches, which will likely need to remain covered by a dry surgical dressing for up to 2 weeks. In addition, depending on injury location, a sling, crutches, or other bracing/support may be required to prevent the placement of destructive pressure on the treated joint.

Based on the patient's unique needs and limitations, a gradual approach to rebuilding joint strength and flexibility, as well as overarching physical mobility, will be outlined by Dr. Fowler's team. Throughout the rehabilitation process, regularly scheduled medical check-ins will be completed to ensure recovery success and the absence of unforeseen complications.

Common Post-Arthroscopic Rehabilitation Efforts

Following an arthroscopic operation, a combination of the following will likely be prescribed for immediate relief and ongoing recovery:

• Anti-inflammatory and pain medications
• At-home exercises
• Physical therapy
• Nutrition/dietary management efforts

Initial physical therapy efforts will likely focus on a gradual increase of flexibility and range of motion, which are necessary for the completion of more advanced exercises. Once the desired level of mobility is achieved, attention will be placed on rebuilding joint strength, including special attention to ligament health and balanced weight distribution.

Throughout the recovery process, it will be important to avoid becoming over-dependent on uninjured joints, as such an emphasis can result in stress-related damage. Likewise, supervised physical therapy efforts should be pursued consistently and carefully in order to avoid exhaustion and recovery setback.

Dr. Fowler will provide recommendations for when and how to safely resume various physical activities, such as walking, driving, or participating in sports. These suggestions will reflect the unique injury and surgery type, as well as patient progress in overarching rehabilitative efforts.

Avoiding Re-Injury and Ensuring Success

Following an orthopaedic operation, Dr. Fowler's recommendations for a gradual and secure return to physical activities should be followed precisely. Patients are encouraged to be attentive to any discomfort or unexpected symptoms observed, consulting the surgical team whenever questions arise.

Likewise, while complications associated with minimally invasive surgery are rare, any unexpected symptoms or concerns should be reported to a medical practitioner immediately.

Expert Care for Successful Recovery: Dr. David F. Fowler

Emphasizing minimally invasive approaches for joint treatment, Dr. David Fowler provides patient-specific guidance for post-op physical therapy, recovery, and care. To schedule an appointment, contact his Atlanta, GA practice at (404) 303-8482.