We asked Dr. Ryan Dean, Physical Therapist to share some tips for recovery this summer. Read on to hear what Dr. Dean had to say, along with his valuable insights and practical tips on this important topic.
Table of Contents
- Why Is Physical Therapy Important After Joint Replacement Surgery?
- What Are the Best Rehab Exercises for Summer Recovery?
- How Can I Stay Safe While Recovering Outdoors?
- Can Physical Therapy Help Me Return to My Favorite Activities?
- Where Can I Find Physical Therapy in Freehold, NJ?
Recovering from orthopedic surgery or injury during the summer months offers unique advantages. Physical therapy after joint replacement or other orthopedic procedures plays a vital role in helping you regain strength while improving mobility and easing pain. With longer days and warmer weather, summer is the perfect time to commit to working on you!
Why Is Physical Therapy Important After Joint Replacement Surgery?
Physical therapy after joint replacement surgery helps restore your joint’s function, reduces stiffness, and strengthens muscles supporting the joint. Whether you had a knee, hip, or ankle replacement, a tailored physical therapy program ensures you regain your independence and return to daily activities safely.
Many patients wonder: What are the best rehab exercises after joint replacement? The answer is exercises that promote gentle movement, build strength, and improve balance without overloading the healing joint.
What Are the Best Rehab Exercises for Summer Recovery?
During summer, outdoor activities and water-based exercises make rehabilitation more enjoyable and effective. Summer recovery doesn’t have to mean staying stuck inside. Many of our patients enjoy getting outdoors to move in low-impact ways, like walking the peaceful trails at Turkey Swamp Park, paddling gently at Lake Topanemus, or biking along the Henry Hudson Trail. These local spots make rehab feel less like a chore and more like a chance to enjoy summer while getting stronger.
Here are some recommended physical therapy exercises for joint replacement recovery in summer:
- Endurance exercise: Low impact activities such as walking on flat surfaces or biking to improve cardiovascular health.
- Aquatic therapy or swimming: Provides resistance training while minimizing joint stress.
- Balance and stability exercises: Such as single-leg stands or use of balance boards to reduce fall risk.
- Strengthening exercises: Using resistance bands or light weights to build muscle around the joint.
- Gentle stretching and yoga: Improves flexibility and range of motion.
These exercises, combined with regular physical therapy sessions, can dramatically improve your recovery timeline.
How Can I Stay Safe While Recovering Outdoors?
- Stay consistent with your physical therapy appointments and home exercise routines.
- Hydrate adequately to support muscle and joint health.
- Wear supportive shoes during outdoor activities to protect your joints.
- Listen to your body and avoid pushing through pain.
- Communicate regularly with your physical therapist about your progress or any discomfort.
Can Physical Therapy Help Me Return to My Favorite Activities?
Our physical therapy team creates rehab programs based on what matters most to you, whether it’s gardening, hiking, swimming, or playing with your grandchildren. Physical therapy can help you get back the strength and function you need to enjoy an active summer after surgery or injury.
Where Can I Find Physical Therapy in Freehold, NJ?
If you’ve had recent orthopedic surgery or an injury, AOSMI offers physical therapy in a supportive, modern environment. Our team works closely with your orthopedic surgeon to help you recover faster and stronger, especially during the active summer months.
