How Physical Therapy Benefits Post-Shoulder Surgery Recovery After a Car Accident

Getting hurt in a car accident is a frightening, painful, and frustrating experience. Having to undergo surgery afterward adds a whole other layer.

Some of the most common shoulder auto accident injuries include rotator cuff tears and shoulder dislocations. When these injuries are severe, you may require surgery to guide healing and correct any damage. Then, post-surgery, you’ll likely undergo rehabilitation, such as active physical therapy.

So, what should you know about this recovery process? How does active physical therapy benefit post-shoulder pain and other symptoms after surgery?

4 Advantages of Active Physical Therapy Post-Surgery

Physical therapy is a natural therapy that aims to restore function and reduce pain. A physical therapist does this through a variety of manual techniques, along with exercise to guide your body’s natural healing abilities. So, with that in mind, here are the top benefits of active physical therapy post-shoulder surgery.

1. Improved Range of Motion

Performing passive range of motion exercises is key in the early days following shoulder surgery in Tampa. This can prevent scar tissue from building up and hindering movement and function of the shoulder joint.

For instance, your physical therapist may instruct you to perform the pendulum exercise where you place one hand on a table or bed, lean forward, and passively swing your shoulder joint in a circular motion to create space in the joint.

After the initial recovery phase, your physical therapist will provide more active stretches to enhance your flexibility and mobility further, ensuring you get back to your normal pre-accident.

2. Reduced Pain & Stiffness

Physical therapy has long been studied for helping reduce pain in various cases. In fact, research indicates the effectiveness of physical therapy in improving pain symptoms and range of motion. When pain is reduced, we are better able to move our limbs, contributing to increased function.

3. Increased Strength

With active physical therapy, your physical therapist will help you regain strength lost by injury after an accident. This will involve a variety of rotator cuff strengthening exercises (such as overhead presses eventually) and even postural exercises (such as the seated row).

4. Improved Circulation

All of the above will help enhance circulation and blood flow throughout the body and aid in bringing all the nutrients and oxygen to the healing site, which may accelerate your recovery period.

Overall, most people require six weeks or more to recover post-shoulder surgery. With our team of physical therapists and the best chiropractors in Tampa, we can help you get back to your normal as soon and as safely as possible. For all your accident pain relief needs, contact the Tampa Spine and Wellness team.