How to Use Physical Therapy to Recover From Surgery

How to Use Physical Therapy to Recover From Surgery



Using physical therapy to aid in the recovery of surgery can decrease pain and increase healing time. In fact, patients using physical therapy in cases of postoperative knee surgery have often reduced their healing time to 6 or 8 weeks. Follow these steps to find out how physical therapy plays a vital and important role in rehabilitation.







Things You'll Need:





Computer with Internet access







Understand Physical Therapy




1


Know that physical therapy is a complete program following an injury or surgery to a joint--whether it's muscle, ligament or tendon repair. This program involves exercises, resistance techniques, ice or warmth and occasionally the use of supplements.





2


Use physical therapy to improve the blood flow and flexibility to the affected area. Research has proven that the increased blood flow contributes to improved post-surgery healing.





3


Continue with physical therapy to strengthen the repaired muscle or joint. Focus on conditioning the area post surgery to increase strength and mobility.



Recover From a Variety of Surgeries with Physical Therapy




1


Focus on the primary goal of physical therapy following arthroscopic shoulder surgery, which is initially to improve flexibility.





2


Use stretching exercises to not only recover the flexibility of the affected knee joint following arthroscopic knee surgery, but also to improve the unaffected knee joint for increased stability.





3


Concentrate on adding resistance to the exercises to increase muscle strength through physical therapy.



Find Supplemental Pain Relief as You Recover from Surgery




1


Utilize ice, wraps and braces throughout the physical therapy program to help control the swelling and pain following surgery.





2


Ask your doctor about prescription medication if you find the pain intolerable. Immediately after surgery you may find this to be a good short term solution for effective pain management.





3


Consider the use of acupuncture as an alternative to chemical pain relief. Acupuncture has been effective in Western medicine as a option for pain relief.





4


Go to the "American Physical Therapy Association" Web site to find more information on surgery recovery (see Resources below).








Tips & Warnings










You should contact your physician with concerns about your health, treatment or care, to help set realistic expectations and goals.








Discontinue treatment if you feel increased pain during physical therapy to avoid damage to recovering injuries.








Don't treat medical emergencies with physical therapy techniques. Seek help at an emergency room for vomiting, dizziness or shortness of breath.



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How to Use Physical Therapy to Recover From Sports Injuries

How to Use Physical Therapy to Recover From Sports Injuries



Physical therapy and
sports
medicine go hand in hand. Techniques from physical therapy can help you recover from new and old sports injuries alike. Finding a trained therapist may be easiest if you can locate a sports clinic where physical therapy is performed. Follow these steps to find out how to use physical therapy to recover from sports injuries that cause lower back pain, neck sprain as well as sore shoulders, ankle and knees.







Things You'll Need:





Computer with Internet access







Learn How Sports Injuries Can Benefit from Physical Therapy




1


Understand that injuries need rehabilitative exercise to promote strength and muscle development.





2


Participate in sports therapy to prevent future injuries if you have an active lifestyle.





3


Take the time to let your muscles recover from injury by using appropriate rest as directed by your therapist.



Discover Hidden Benefits of Physical Therapy




1


Improve performance by following the direction of a sports therapist who can help you improve cardiovascular endurance.





2


Feel the benefits of improved circulation and muscle lengthening as a result of stretching exercises. Exercise and education are often supplementary components of therapy programs.





3


Enroll in a 10-week program of high speed treadmill training therapy. While the price is expensive, it can help improve your speed and anaerobic endurance.





4


Discover more benefits by visiting the "American Physical Therapy Association" Web site (see Resources below).



Purchase Supplemental Equipment to Relieve Pain from Sports Injuries




1


Evaluate the use of custom orthotics if you have foot pain. It's an inexpensive way to relieve pressure on the ankle and foot.





2


Use an orthopaedic pillow to relieve neck and shoulder pain while you recover from injury.





3


Shop around for inversion tables. They adjust the center of gravity and help with spinal and back injury. Second hand sports stores may sell inversion tables at a lower price.





4


Buy a large sports ball to perform specific stretching techniques while providing gentle support to the back. Sports balls are inexpensive. They can be found at major sporting goods stores.








Tips & Warnings










Check with your primary care doctor for referral to a physical therapist. Some insurance policies will cover the associated costs. Otherwise, costs may be high.








Choose loose fitting clothing and drink plenty of water during treatment.








Do not attempt to treat serious medical injury with physical therapy, go to a hospital if you feel severe tightness in your muscles.








Use good judgment when beginning physical therapy, don't over exert yourself. Don't cause unnecessary strain to your injury.



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How to Use Physical Therapy to Recover From Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

How to Use Physical Therapy to Recover From Carpal Tunnel Syndrome



Repetitive motions are often the primary cause of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, which is characterized by stiff wrists, impaired mobility of the wrists and fingers and severe prolonged pain. Treatment for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome typically begins with anti inflammatory medications. If swelling or discomfort does not improve, physical therapy may be suggested. The goal of physical therapy is to strengthen the injured muscles. Follow these steps to find out how to use physical therapy to recover from carpal tunnel syndrome.







Things You'll Need:





Computer with Internet access







Research Self Help Relief Options




1


Schedule inexpensive paraffin hand treatments. Soothing warm wax may relieve carpal tunnel syndrome related pains.





2


Learn self massage techniques. Use your thumb to make slow repetitive stroking motions on the outer sides of the forearm. Allow 7 to 10 minutes to effectively massage the soreness. Complete the massaging technique 3 to 5 times per session at least twice a day.





3


Find more information on the "Carpal Tunnel" Web site (see Resources below).



Purchase Ergonomic Items to Relieve Carpal Tunnel Pain




1


Select an ergonomic keyboard instead of a traditional keyboard. Traditional keyboards don't allow the proper alignment of the wrist, which can lead to problems affecting the wrist and forearm muscles.





2


Consider using hand braces. They'll correctly position the wrist and prevent further injury while allowing you to use your hands.





3


Use heat or cold packs applied to the wrists as an inexpensive option to reduce swelling and discomfort.



Seek Surgery if Pain Persists




1


Understand that even with the best physical therapy, some cases of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome can only be cured through surgery.





2


Ask your doctor to explain surgery procedures. Routinely, a small incision at the base of the wrist is made to expose the carpal ligament, where the doctor can cut the ligament.





3


Plan to let your hands rest and recover for at least 7 to 14 days after surgery.








Tips & Warnings










Set realistic expectations for physical therapy outcomes.








Know that surgery may be the only alternative for severe cases of damage.








Consider cortisone injections in addition to physical therapy.








Consult your physician if tingling of the hand or fingers increases.








With all surgery consider the risks before undergoing procedures. There's a small risk that the nerve may be damaged during surgery.








Don't treat life threatening injuries with physical therapy. Go to your nearest hospital if you experience dizziness, sweating or prolonged nausea.



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How to Use Physical Therapy to Recover From Amputation Surgery

How to Use Physical Therapy to Recover From Amputation Surgery



Dealing with amputation is difficult, even with well-planned preparation. The loss of a limb is still very traumatic. Not only will the person have to learn to live with the physical loss, they may need to learn to love the new look of their body, too. Plus, they may need to learn how to use a prosthetic device. Proper instruction and physical therapy is helpful to recover from surgery and amputation. Follow these steps to learn more.







Things You'll Need:





Computer with Internet access







Mobility Options after Amputation Surgery




1


Consult a prosthetic specialist to determine whether or not artificial limbs may be the right option for you. Artificial limbs may require painful physical therapy, which will be easier if they're properly fitted.





2


Decide on options for independence. A modified wheelchair, for instance, may be a comfortable solution for amputees.





3


Plan to choose the least-restrictive assistance device. Crutches may be a good choice for patients who are strong enough to support their body weight for extended periods of time.





4


Know that the cost will vary greatly depending on the mobility options you choose. High quality artificial limbs can be expensive. Crutches are extremely affordable.



Find Support for Amputees




1


Enlist the support of friends and family. Rebounding from amputation surgery will require emotional and physical support.





2


Build friendships with other amputees. They'll be able to relate to your situation, offer encouragement and empathize with your pain.





3


Visit the "Amputee Coalition of America" Web site for additional resources on coping with amputation (see Resources below).



Commit to Physical Therapy




1


Know that physical therapy is a must for all amputees. Be prepared to work hard, experience frustration and ultimately success.





2


Celebrate every milestone. Amputees often feel a sense of overwhelm concerning the length of treatment toward recovery. Being excited about progress may help keep you motivated.





3


Plan to spend several hours each day with professional therapists so you can increase strength after surgery.








Tips & Warnings










Treatment after amputation surgery may include psychological treatment in addition to physical therapy.








Ask questions about how physical therapy will help you recover. A long-term perspective is especially important after amputation.








Think about architectural barriers to yout mobility, like stairs and non accessible stores or buildings. Plan your activities in advance to minimize frustration.








Notify your physician if your level of pain is preventing your participation in a therapy program. Medications may be necessary to recover from surgery as well as manage the expected discomfort.








Don't use therapy to treat amputation injuries. Go straight to your emergency room.



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How to Use Physical Therapy to Recover From a Stroke

How to Use Physical Therapy to Recover From a Stroke



Stroke sufferers are affected in many ways. Sometimes, they can no longer do simple things healthy people take for granted. Intensive physical therapy may be necessary depending on the severity of the neurological damage a stroke causes. Rehabilitation is expensive; but some insurance policies may help with the cost. With it, stroke survivors will improve their fine motor skills, hand-eye coordination and muscular movements. Follow these steps to find out how.







Things You'll Need:





Computer with Internet access







Know the Causes of Strokes




1


Understand that strokes are caused by a buildup of cholesterol or plaque in the arterial walls. Over a lifetime, blockages prevent the flow of healthy oxygen rich blood to the heart and brain.





2


Realize that strokes can also occur as a result of blood vessel rupture or bleeding in the brain.





3


Be aware that stroke sufferers often have future episodes of strokes of increased severity and even full heart attacks.





4


Use the FDA Web site to learn more about the causes of a stroke (see Resources below).



Seek to Prevent Strokes




1


Examine your diet as an essential step to stroke prevention. A diet high in fatty foods and red meat may increase your chance for stroke.





2


Check your blood pressure annually. Schedule a full physical exam as a preventative measure.





3


Recognize early stroke symptoms, including sudden weakness in a limb or blurred vision. If you're concerned about the symptoms, seek medical treatment immediately.





4


Use physical exercise on a daily basis. Keeping your body in shape will help you recover with less difficulty.



Consider Functional Needs of a Stroke Sufferer




1


Be an advocate if you know someone who's a stroke patient. Due to the cutting of health care programs, some health plans will place elderly victims in nursing care rather than rehabilitative programs.





2


Try speech therapy to recover as much normal speech ability as possible. While some patients may not be able to speak effectively after a stroke, mental ability may not necessarily be impaired.





3


Practice non-verbal methods like sign language for stroke sufferers who are unable to talk. Focus on encouragement and progress during therapy.





4


Anticipate the need for independence as the patient starts to recover and become self-sufficient.








Tips & Warnings










Follow the advice of a medical professional, including using medicines to prevent further possible strokes.








Physical therapy shouldn't be used to treat emergencies. If you're experiencing numbness or shortness of breath, go to your nearest hospital or call 911.



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How to Wear the Right Length Spring Shorts

How to Wear the Right Length Spring Shorts



Looking good in what you wear is often a matter of proportions. No matter what your size or shape, you can put a little spring in your step when you select the right pair of shorts. And in shorts, length really does matter.









Step
1



Remember that even though you may be in the prime of your life mentally, short shorts, like hot pants, are really only for the young and in shape. If you're uncomfortable in a bathing suit on the beach, hot pants are not the length of shorts for you.




Step
2



Pick a pair of shorts which reaches to your mid-thigh. These tend to be a little more forgiving but remember, they should not be uncomfortably tight around the hem.




Step
3



Wear a pair of knee-length or bermuda shorts. These shorts are flattering for most people, men and women alike. They look especially smart for spring when they are paired with a crisp button-down shirt and a leather belt.




Step
4



Try out a pair of loose-legged culotte shorts. If wear them at knee length or a little bit shorter, you'll have a look that almost passes for a skirt. Depending on your workplace, you may even be able to wear these for casual Friday.




Step
5



Wear a pair of shorts in a capri length this spring for a classic, fifties retro look. These are shorts which range in length from just above the ankle to slightly below the knee.




Step
6



Dress in the right pair of shorts for a slightly less casual spring cook out or get-together. Capri length palazzo pants in a gauzy linen or cotton will cast the right spell during this magical time of year, as wider legs and more fluid fabric add drama.




Step
7



Keep proportion in mind when selecting your shorts. Generally speaking, wider-legged shorts look better with a longer hem while more fitted shorts will look good when they are either capri length or hemmed well above the knee.




Step
8



Avoid shorts which cut you off at an awkward spot. If you tend to carry most of your weight through your thighs, you should wear a pair that are wide and reach to just above the knee.







Tips & Warnings









Convert an old pair of jeans or pants that are worn in the knees into a pair of shorts by cutting and hemming them to the proper length. This kind of clothing recycling is not only good for your wallet; it's good for the planet as well.



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How to Wear the Right Length Skirt for Spring

How to Wear the Right Length Skirt for Spring



Skirts make any woman feel feminine, and they're easily the most versatile item of clothing in any closet. You can take just about any skirt from a formal work setting to a hot night out on the town by simply adding a sexy top and a pair of slammin' boots. Spring is the right time to experiment with new skirt lengths and styles in bright colors and fun prints.









Step
1



Pair a miniskirt with a cute pair of boots for a night out on the town. If you live in colder climates, consider a pair of thick tights and a mid-calf boot for a stylish and functional look. Don't overlook a knee-length jean skirt. Wear it with a pair of cowboy boots, or with a wedge heel on that first warm weekend heading into summer.




Step
2



Pick up an A-line skirt for work and pair it with a navy blazer. Neutral shades go great with navy and they're always right for spring. Make sure the skirt is knee length or longer if you're wearing it to work.




Step
3



Look for lighter fabrics for spring. Think linen and cotton blends for an easy-to-maintain style, or go for a lighter wool blend in a pastel or cream tone for something feminine.




Step
4



Wear a long skirt and pair it with a hip-slung belt. Look for a braided belt or a belt with studs to create texture. Go for a cotton-blend skirt for weekend wear, but make sure to wear a longer sweater or a flowing blouse if it's made of a body-hugging stretch fabric.




Step
5



Create a bohemian look with a long, floral print skirt. Pair it with
strappy
sandals


if the weather permits, or wear a pair of rugged-looking boots for a punk rock contrast to this soft feminine look.




Step
6



Break up your
business
attire


. Grab a skirt from one of your suits and wear it with a sweater set. Give the whole look extra feminine appeal by adding a slim belt over the top of your sweater.




Step
7



Wear a mid-calf length skirt when in doubt, and elongate your legs with the right pair of modest heels. Create a preppy, spring look by wearing a polo shirt and tying a V-neck sweater around your neck. Lose the heels and wear a pair of ballet flats to complete the look.







Tips & Warnings









Romantic frills and lace collars are never the right choice for a formal workplace. Save them for the weekend or for a special night out.



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How to Wear the Right Color Spring Skirts

How to Wear the Right Color Spring Skirts



Color can be expressive of your mood and your personality. The colors you choose to wear reflect both. As the year progresses, the colors of your garments should also reflect the change of seasons. In the spring, update your skirt wardrobe to embrace all the colors of the freshly blooming season.









Step
1



Stay in the know about spring fashions by keeping up to
date
with the seasonal fashion forecast. While
fashion
magazines


are an excellent resource for the right spring looks in color, you can also find more current runway looks online.




Step
2



Choose colors for your spring skirts that will complement
your
skin


color. Since your legs may be bared for the first time in many months, you may be able to reduce their pale appearance by choosing colors that will enhance your skin's natural undertones of red or yellow.




Step
3



Shop for skirts in lighter shades of the primary colors red, blue and yellow. Typically, pastel shades of these hues are reminiscent of spring flowers and the holidays associated with this season.




Step
4



Look for citrus shades for a warm spring look. Since these are typically variations of the warmer hues of red and yellow, your skirts will exude warmth like the rays of spring sunshine.




Step
5



Buy skirts to last through multiple seasons this spring when you select those constructed in neutral tones such as cream, khaki and tan. These versatile shades can be worn throughout the summer and into fall, extending the life of your garments.




Step
6



Keep an eye out for pastel tones in the multiple colors of patterned fabric. Many times, a simple adjustment in the value or tone of a color scheme can make the printed pattern right for spring, with its emphasis on lighter hues and low contrast.




Step
7



Choose colors that are appropriate for the different events you may wear a skirt to in the spring. These might include spring
weddings
, where a cream or white colored skirt would not be an appropriate choice, or a beach-side
barbecue
, where a white skirt would be suitable.




Step
8



Wear a colorful top or blouse with a gray late-winter skirt to update it for spring. Lightweight gray wool suiting can be rejuvenated for spring with the addition of the right colored blouse and accessories.







Tips & Warnings









Since the spring months can still be cool in some parts of the country, invest in colorful stockings or tights with light and interesting patterns to match your skirts.



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How to Wear the Right Color Spring Shorts

How to Wear the Right Color Spring Shorts



Color can express your mood as well as complement your
skin
tone


. And when bare legs will be on display in the first months of spring, the color of your outfit can either make or break your look. Use care when selecting spring shorts in a variety of colors. If you don't make the right choice, you may draw unwanted attention to your winter-white extremities.









Step
1



Choose a wardrobe basic for your first pair of spring shorts. Khaki or light tan shorts will go with just about everything and a variety of shades to complement a rainbow of skin tones are available.




Step
2



Pick a pair of blue denim jean shorts with a washed finish to have a spring jeans alternative on hand. You can wear these comfortable essentials with a t-shirt for a casual look or pair them with a beaded tank and sweater for a more dressy look.




Step
3



Break the rules and wear white shorts before Memorial Day, if you have little tan left on your legs from last summer. This will give you a fresh springy look, especially when you wear them with shirts in citrus colors such as lime green and tangerine orange.




Step
4



Wear a pair of tailored work shorts made from a light gray pinstripe wool suiting fabric for an alternative career look. Worn in a capri length and paired with short swing jacket, you will have a spring outfit that really works for you.




Step
5



Select a natural linen when you wear wide palazzo shorts. You can wear these graceful shorts with a tank top or sequined blouse for an elegant spring party look.




Step
6



Coordinate the color of your shorts with your spring swimwear for a nice cover-up alternative. Whether in a tropical solid or print, your shorts will look great with everything from a string bikini to a tank suit while you're lounging by the pool or at the beach.




Step
7



Avoid dark colors such as black or navy as they generally don't look right with untanned skin. Unless you plan on wearing these in a gaucho style with knee socks, you will probably create the wrong fashion impression.




Step
8



Wear a color-coordinated leather or braided belt to dress up your spring shorts. This accessory will create the right impression when you wear your shorts at less casual venues.







Tips & Warnings









Combat pale winter skin by using a hypo-allergenic self-tanner on your legs before you hit the streets in your new spring shorts. If applied correctly, it can give you that sun-kissed appearance without you ever having been outside.



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How to Wear the Right Clothes When Traveling and Breastfeeding

How to Wear the Right Clothes When Traveling and Breastfeeding



Chances are that your out-of-town family will want to see that new baby. If you happen to be breastfeeding and traveling, this task might seem a bit tricky, but it can be done. The trick is in just wearing the right clothes so you can be as discrete as possible. You don't even have to spend any extra money on nursing shirts to do it!







Things You'll Need:





Maternity or stretchy pants



Nursing bra or tank top with a built-in bra



Blanket



Nursing pads









Step
1



Pick a pair of pants, shorts or sweats that you're comfortable in. Maternity or stretchy pants are great because they come up high covering an exposed stomach.




Step
2



Wear a shirt that can be lifted up easily. Button-down shirts might make things more complicated when trying to be as inconspicuous as possible.




Step
3



Select a nursing bra that's easy to clasp or adjust back in place.




Step
4



Another option is wearing a tank with a built-in bra under your shirt. They offer the support needed, plus they hide exposed stomach skin while nursing. Just lift your shirt layer up and pull the tank down on the side you need.




Step
5



When nursing, pull the bottom of your shirt down as far as you can to cover any exposed skin.




Step
6



Don't forget breast pads in case of a leak.







Tips & Warnings









If your baby doesn't mind being covered up, you can use a blanket or a nursing cover. People are more likely to think that the baby is sleeping rather than eating this way.



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