In response to the resurgence of COVID-19 cases, we are starting to see hospitals postponing elective surgeries. This is being done in an attempt to ration supplies and free up hospital beds while reducing the risk of exposure to other patients.
These surgeries — although considered non-urgent — may be meant to relieve pain or repair injuries, such as joint and hip replacements, tendon repairs, or spinal fusion surgeries. All of which may not be an immediate emergency, but definitely contribute to overall health and well-being.
Postponing surgeries could be extremely problematic for patients suffering from limited mobility and daily function or those experiencing increasing pain. Often, elective surgeries help to improve their quality of life and long-term health.
Does delaying care have consequences?
Just because your surgery was canceled, doesn’t mean you have to sit back and continue to suffer. Physical therapy can help reduce pain and improve strength and mobility until your surgery can be scheduled. Physical therapy will prevent further damage and can better prepare you for your post-surgical rehabilitation.
Consulting with a physical therapist, and following a prescribed treatment plan, may even lead to non-surgical solutions. Physical therapy can effectively help patients heal naturally, and for some, this means allowing them to avoid surgery altogether!
There are, however, possible repercussions as delays in surgeries persist. Postponing your surgery and not getting the treatment you need can lead to worsening conditions and adverse effects on your overall health — which is why maintaining your prescribed physical therapy routine is so important.
Moving forward with physical therapy
If you aren’t already working with a physical therapist, this may be the perfect time to start. Consider this your prehab — your pre-surgery PT. Ever heard of a blessing in disguise? By moving forward with a prehab treatment, you can focus more on regaining strength, range of motion, and flexibility near the injured area. By doing this before you begin your surgery, you can actually increase the likelihood of a faster recovery and better post-op outcomes.
Physical therapy can also help to:
- Improve awareness and engagement in symptom management
- Avoid excessive or overuse of pain medications
- Educate patients on activity modification to ease pain and regain more mobility
- Prevent further deconditioning through exercises that won’t increase pain
- Provide overall improved preparedness for surgery and post-surgical rehab
If you were preparing to get an elective surgery soon, you are probably experiencing mobility limitations. With on-demand physical therapy, Luna delivers your PT right to your door. No hassle and easily stress-free. Get the care you need when and where you need it, with a treatment plan tailored just for you.
Don’t wait, contact Luna today to get started on your recovery and get one-on-one care from a board-certified PT in your area.
