| |
FRACTURES ARTHRITIS JOINT REPLACEMENTS SPINAL SURGERY AMPUTEES
Injuries, conditions or diseases that affect the bones, muscle, ligaments and joint structure are within the medical field of orthopedics. Orthopedic physiotherapy is the most common area associated with this profession as it encompasses sports injuries, joint wear and tear and common mobility maladies as well as minor and major trauma, post surgical conditions and congenital disorders.
Access at Home Physiotherapy provides pre and post operative care for clients with joint replacements. The stronger the muscles are going into joint surgery, the easier the post operative course. It takes years of wear and tear before a joint requires replacement. Along with that goes soft tissue (muscle and ligament) adaptation, poor gait patterns and muscle imbalances that can be minimized prior to the surgery. Many clients prefer to work one on one post operatively at home rather than attend classes as an out patient and find the journey to and from the hospital challenging and negates the benefit gained by the class. Some feel they are more committed to their program when they have someone “checking up on them at home”. Others manage fine for several months then notice a slight decline in function and would like to know where to go for a “refresher” several months post discharge from a clinic or out patient facility to take them to a higher functional level.
Orthopedic trauma from car accidents, falls, sporting accidents and arthritic changes are common reasons for referral.
Whatever the pathology, orthopedic injuries require expertise to advise the client on mobility issues; appropriate and specific exercise is required to strengthen, lengthen, and stabilize affected muscle. Treatment options could include electrotherapy, such as TENS, Ultra Sound or Acupuncture; therapeutic programs generally include strengthening/stretching exercise, functional training for walking or activities of daily living, pool therapy, manual therapy for joint mobilization, balance retraining and aerobic reconditioning. All can be done outside a clinical setting.
Physiotherapists are always promoting and encouraging self management and independence and working collaboratively with your health care team to help and guide you through the rehabilitation process so you can return to your normal lifestyle as soon as possible.
Here are some useful websites:
American Association of Orthopedic Surgery
Family Doctor.org
Joint Replacement Info
Joint Pain Info
physicaltherapy.ca
|
|
