About This Blog:
- Although Dr. Mark Giovanini of NeuroMicroSpine performs “minimally invasive” spine surgeries, that doesn’t mean post-procedural rehabilitation isn’t necessary or beneficial.
- Physical therapy is an important part of the healing process not just for improving muscle function, but also for minimizing the chance of future injury.
- Dr. Mark Giovanini of NeuroMicroSpine talks about the benefits of physical therapy after spine surgery.
Benefits of Physical Therapy
In order to maximize recovery from minimally invasive spine surgery, Dr. Mark Giovanini of NeuroMicroSpine may recommend a number of conservative post-procedure treatment options, including physical therapy. Most cases of back pain are associated with some level of muscle weakness that can negatively impact spine function, which is why it is generally recommended that patients seek opportunities to enhance their spine’s mobility and function.
Even if a patient’s back pain is directly related to a damaged or herniated spinal disc, there is still a chance muscle weakness can develop after the disc problem has been addressed. Many physicians, like Dr. Mark Giovanini, want to protect patients from localized muscle weakness that could leave them vulnerable for additional damage or injury.
One of the best ways patients can protect themselves from future spine problems is through physical therapy, a rehabilitation technique that helps patients return to their normal level of functioning. This unique therapy also educates patients on proper posture and body mechanics to ensure motion and soft tissue restrictions are no longer present. Physical therapy is performed under the supervision of a licensed therapist.
What To Expect During Physical Therapy After Spine Surgery
- During a physical therapy session, patients typically undergo a thorough evaluation to determine areas of weakness.
- Shortly after, the therapist will identify motions or positions that cause pain and then determine exercises or manual therapies that will alleviate that pain.
- Other treatment modalities such as ice, electric stimulation, or massage therapy may be integrated to ensure patients are recovering fully and properly.
Another benefit to physical therapy is reducing the likelihood of post-laminectomy syndrome, also called failed back surgery syndrome. Although there are many different reasons as to why a condition like this one develops, performing certain exercises to strengthen muscles and increase flexibility may limit the chance of this happening.
There are a number of other benefits Dr. Mark Giovanini can inform you of after your surgery. If you’re interested in learning more about physical therapy and rehabilitation after minimally invasive spine surgery, call Dr. Mark Giovanini of NeuroMicroSpine today!
For more information on minimally invasive spine surgery or to make an appointment with Dr. Giovanini, please call (850) 934-7545 or visit http://www.neuromicrospine.com/request-appointment.
We hope to see you soon!
The advice and information contained in this article is for educational purposes only and is not intended to replace or counter a physician’s advice or judgment. Please always consult your physician before taking any advice learned here or in any other educational medical material.