Post-Operative Rehabilitation & Functional Recovery

Post-operative rehabilitation and functional recovery focus on restoring strength, mobility, and function after orthopaedic surgery. It is a structured recovery program that helps patients regain movement, prevent complications, and return to daily activities. This process is essential for achieving optimal surgical outcomes and long-term joint health.

Importance of Post-Operative Rehabilitation

After orthopaedic surgery on the hand, wrist, or upper limb, rehabilitation plays a crucial role in:

• Reducing pain and swelling
• Restoring mobility and strength
• Preventing joint stiffness and scar tissue formation
• Enhancing coordination and fine motor skills
• Ensuring proper healing of bones, joints, tendons, and nerves

Phases of Rehabilitation

Immediate Post-Surgery Phase (0-2 Weeks)

• Goal: Protect the surgical site and minimize pain/swelling
• Treatment:
  Immobilization (splinting, casting, or bracing)
  Pain management (medications, ice therapy)
  Gentle range-of-motion (ROM) exercises (if permitted)

Early Rehabilitation Phase (2-6 Weeks)

• Goal: Prevent stiffness and start movement
• Treatment:
  Gradual passive and active-assisted movements
  Swelling reduction techniques (elevation, compression)
  Scar tissue management (massage, silicone therapy)

Strengthening & Functional Recovery Phase (6-12 Weeks)

• Goal: Regain strength and functional use
• Treatment:
  Hand therapy: Grip-strengthening and fine motor exercises
  Resistance training: Gradual strengthening of muscles and tendons
  Stretching exercises: To improve flexibility and prevent contractures

Advanced Functional Rehabilitation (3-6 Months & Beyond)

• Goal: Restore full function and return to daily activities/sports
• Treatment:
  High-level coordination and dexterity training
  Task-specific training (writing, typing, sports movements)
  Adaptive strategies for long-term joint protection

Techniques Used in Post-Operative Rehabilitation

• Physical Therapy: Targeted exercises for strength and mobility
• Occupational Therapy: Training for daily tasks (gripping, holding objects)
• Splinting & Bracing: To support healing and prevent deformities
• Manual Therapy: Hands-on techniques to improve flexibility
• Pain Management: Ice, heat, ultrasound, and electrical stimulation
• Ergonomic Training: Preventing repetitive strain injuries