What is Orthopedic Rehabilitation?
In Greek, ortho means straight or correct. Ped in Greek means foot. This helps explain the connection between Dr. Scholl’s and his line of orthopedic shoes and inserts, but the famous foot doctor, the grandson of a German shoemaker, can’t help you get back on your feet after hip surgery or a knee replacement. For that, your orthopedic surgeon will recommend an orthopedic rehabilitation specialist, i.e., a physical therapist and possibly an occupational therapist.
Orthopedic therapists treat almost any condition that affects your ability to move or function physically in your daily life. Here are some of the most common conditions that may require orthopedic rehabilitation:
- Carpal tunnel
- Arthritis
- Osteoporosis
- ACL and meniscus tears
- Broken bones
- Hip, knee and shoulder surgery
- Stroke
- Sciatica
- Amputation
The components of an orthopedic rehabilitation program may include:
- Physical therapy to improve strength, flexibility and reduce pain. Your therapy program will likely include exercise and massage, plus treatments such as heat, ice, electrical stimulation, laser or ultrasound.
- Occupational therapy to improve your ability to perform daily activities. Assistive devices such as canes, walkers, slings, braces or orthotics may be used to improve function.
Personalized Treatment is the Hallmark of a Good Rehabilitation Program
Orthopedic rehabilitation is tailored to each person’s condition, goals and abilities. A high school athlete, for example, may want to get back on the field as soon as possible after a knee injury. His rehabilitation program would look very different from that of a woman in her eighties who had broken her hip. In either case, the orthopedic rehab team develops a customized program to address pain, facilitate healing, restore function and improve strength, flexibility and endurance. Progress is measured and tracked so you can see how you’re progressing and whether or not treatment should be adjusted. The ultimate goal is to improve your quality of life and get you back to the life you love.
Orthopedic Rehabilitation at Meadow Ridge
Ridge Crest, the health center at Meadow Ridge, offers an ideal setting to recover from joint surgery and other musculoskeletal conditions. Our orthopedic rehabilitation team includes physical and occupational therapists, nurses, an infection preventionist and dietician, all overseen by a medical director. In addition, speech therapists are on staff to address communication issues and swallowing problems.
To make your stay as comfortable as possible, private and semi-private rooms, chef-prepared meals, and daily activities geared to your interests and abilities are yours to enjoy. Whether you’re receiving rehabilitation as an inpatient or outpatient, you’ll get the caring, attentive service you deserve. It’s one reason why Meadow Ridge has earned the highest rating for short-term rehabilitation in the most recent rankings by U.S. News & World Report.
For more information on rehabilitation services at Ridge Crest, get in touch or call (203) 544-1000.