Physical Therapy

Overview
Also known as rehabilitative therapy, physical therapy aims to strengthen, mobilize, and heal the knee through a series of exercises and stretching.

Read Frequently Asked Questions about Rehabilitation and treatment here.

Detailed Description
Specialist
Physical or rehabilitative therapist, athletic trainer

Procedure
Every physical therapy (PT) regimen varies, custom-tailored to the needs and abilities of the individual patient. The therapy prescribed for a 20-year-old world-class soccer star with a cartilage tear will differ from the exercises recommended to a 60-year-old total-knee-replacement patient. Generally, the physical therapist guides the patient back to recovery with a series of stretching exercises, weightlifting, balance and coordination training, and any other method he or she sees fit. Likewise, the goals of physical therapy differ, ranging from getting the patient to walk to achieving his or her pre-surgery athleticism.

Recovery:
Recovery rates vary drastically depending upon the age and condition of the patient, as well as the type and severity of injury. The patient must not rush it, and recognize that recovery will take time. Remember that plenty of rest and patience will guide you to a successful recovery, and overdoing the weights or stretching may re-injure the wound.

Let your therapist know if:
You are on any medication, you are sore, or you are feeling any pain. Good communication and trust between patient and therapist spell a successful recovery.

Last updated: 26-Oct-01