When you are told surgery is imminent, you might not be ready to go this route for treatment. Joint replacement surgery is common, but many people try alternative therapies to surgery first. Whether you are nervous about surgery, or you don't have the time you need to recover, physical therapy can help prolong or reduce your need for surgery over time. When you work closely with a therapist to address strengthening and stretching your muscles, ligaments and tendons, you may be able to get through your daily activities with less pain.

Maximize Your Current Level of Function

Pain as you walk or move about makes it difficult to find ways to exercise. A physical therapist will assess your current level of joint function and work with you on a plan to maximize your current abilities. While you can't repair an arthritic joint, you can strengthen the muscles that cross over the joint to provide your joint with maximum support and function. You will be taught exercises that strengthen the right muscles, and get you moving with less pain.

Reducing Your Symptoms

Pain, swelling and poor range of motion are common reasons to see a physical therapist. Medication can be used to decrease inflammation, but this doesn't cure the problem. When you are trying to reduce symptoms, a physical therapist can help. Using a range of treatments such as ultrasound, hot and cold therapy, deep tissue massage and more, your physical therapist will address specific needs to help reduce your symptoms in order to get you moving.

Working With Your Physical Therapist

You will be asked to come to therapy several times a week for treatment if you are trying to prolong the need for surgery. Each session builds upon the previous one, and you will find relief faster when you commit to regular treatment. You may go to a therapist three times a week in the beginning, and slowly ease down to once or twice a week. You will be given exercises to work on at home, which will help you strengthen your muscles and improve mobility.

The therapists at PT Link Physical Therapy will help you decrease your pain and become more mobile, you will discover that exercise becomes easier. If you are concerned about a surgical intervention and not sure if it is right for you, physical therapy can address your current concerns. Even if surgery becomes inevitable, you will have the strength you need to get through it if you work with a physical therapist first.