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Why Get Prehab and Post-Op Physical Therapy for ACL Surgery Near Burien?

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Prehab and Post-Op Physical Therapy burien

If you’re going to have an ACL reconstruction surgery, here are a few concepts to consider: 

Pre-Hab Before Surgery

Before your surgery, physical therapy can help exercise the specific muscles which support your recovery. It may seem like only post-op therapy would be necessary, but strengthening those muscles beforehand will increase your ability to heal after the reconstruction procedure. This should result in improved post-op function and decreased recovery time.

Retains Muscle Strength

One of the biggest downsides of a joint injury is the loss of surrounding muscle mass and strength. When you have surgery on your ACL, you want your quadriceps, hamstring, calf, gluteals, and core all contracting optimally. Getting both prehab and post-op therapy will help get your muscles strong.

Reduces Swelling

Immediately after the initial injury your knee may swell with fluid, a condition referred to as edema or effusion. This can be eliminated with pre-hab physical therapy. You may also be able to control it with cold/ice pack applications for up to 20 minutes every 4 hours, or as directed by your licensed healthcare provider. After the surgical procedure the knee typically will swell again as part of the healing response. The post-op physical therapy will once again eliminate this, if the correct treatments are selected by your Doctor of Physical Therapy. The same cold/ice routine mentioned above can also help reduce or eliminate the swelling. Also, having stronger muscles will protect your knee joint and help keep it from swelling both before and after the ACL reconstruction surgery.

Post-Op Physical Therapy After Surgery

Physical therapy ideally should begin within the first week after your surgery to address the swelling and muscle strength issues already noted. The surgeon may have a protocol which delays the start of the post-op care depending on the type of procedure performed. Your therapist will also work to restore full motion of the knee, as it most likely will be stiff immediately after the procedure. As you progress, sport or hobby specific exercises will be added in. Even most professional athletes take 9-12 months to rehab after an ACL reconstruction. The use of a knee brace once you return to sports will be up to you with guidance from your therapist and the surgeon.    

Need Physical Therapy for ACL Surgery Near Burien?

If you want the best PT in the Burien area, the team at Advance Physical Therapy is here to help. We use evidence-based treatments to deliver care you can trust to address chronic back pain, after surgery, or after an injury. Contact us today for more information on how we can help you get the care you need.

Skilled Physical Therapy for ACL Surgery Near Burien

Serving Burien, Seattle, Normandy Park, Des Moines, Kent, Tukwila, & SeaTac

Posted on October 24, 2022 | Published by Ignite Local | Related Local Business

Benefits of Manual Lymph Drainage Therapy in Burien

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Manual-Lymph-Drainage-Massage Normandy

After an injury or surgery, lymphatic fluid can build up in the affected area and cause lymphedema. When this happens, you can experience all kinds of symptoms and conditions. Understanding the benefits of manual lymph drainage therapy can allow you to get the help you need.

Reduces Swelling

One of the most common symptoms of lymphedema is swelling in the limbs or other extremities. Getting treatment from a certified MLD therapist will help reduce swelling and help prevent the complications that can arise from it. This gentle technique moves the lymphatic fluid through the vessels and nodes and get it out of the affected area.

Prevents Infections

When swelling from lymphedema happens, it can cause infections such as cellulitis and other serious complications. After a surgery, it is important to treat the area to minimize the risk of infection as much as possible. A physical therapist trained in MLD will help reduce the likelihood that these issues will occur throughout the course of your recovery.

Strengthens Limbs

Lymphedema can cause weakness in the affected limbs. Along with a round of physical therapy, manual lymph drainage therapy can increase your strength and help your muscles heal. With the right therapy, you can prevent atrophy and discomfort related to lymphedema.

Need Manual Lymph Drainage Therapy in Burien?

If you need the best manual lymph drainage in the Burien area, the team at Advance Physical Therapy is here to help. We use evidence-based treatments to give you care you can trust after surgery or an injury. Contact us today for more information on how we can help you recover.

Expert Manual Lymph Drainage Therapy in Burien

Serving Kent, SeaTac, Auburn, Renton, New Castle, Federal Way, Covington, Tacoma, Puyallup, Burien, Normandy Park & Bonney Lake

Posted on July 6, 2022 | Published by Ignite Local | Related Local Business