Rehabilitation is for the purpose of restoring desired function. The goal of rehabilitating any part of the body must be carried out efficiently, effectively and safely with the aim of restoring normal function, reducing swelling, regaining range of movement, improving muscular strength, regaining optimal neuromuscular strength and ultimately returning to the desired level of function whether that’s normal everyday life or to competition level fitness for an elite athlete.
A rehabilitation therapist is specially trained to work with people to restore activity, strength and motion following injury or surgery. A rehabilitation program will go from initial management right through to final recovery. Rehabilitation therapists can teach specific exercises, stretches and techniques across a wide variety of disciplines to reach the best possible outcome, whilst being flexible and understanding the specific needs and limitations of the client.
Rehabilitation therapists target specific areas of weakness in the way the body moves and works following an injury or surgery. They can also help to relieve stress and help the body function without pain.
Rehabilitation therapists are knowledgeable about the body, its joints, ligaments and muscles as well as an understanding of surgical procedures and can therefore tailor the program to meet individual requirements. After a surgical procedure, it is vitally important that the therapist knows and understands the surgery and that the rehab program is designed with any limitations in mind to ensure the most successful outcome.
Stretching is vital for maintaining and improving the flexibility and length of muscles. This will enable good range of movement with joints and the increased ability to gain balanced muscle strength. If you have limited range in joints or tight muscles, normal activities, such as climbing stairs or reaching overhead, can be severely affected. A well designed Rehabilitation program with the correct progression of proper stretching exercises will mean these basic functions can be preserved and improved upon.
Scar tissue forms after an injury or surgery, this can have a limiting effect on everyday movement and specific training. It is very important to start the rehabilitation programme with a qualified rehabilitation specialist as early as possible with regular stretching, light massage and exercise ensuring that scar tissue is kept to a minimum and does not impede your rehabilitation and recovery to the desired level.
Rehabilitation is a two way programme between the expertise and understanding of the therapist and the attitude and efforts of the client. The setting of realistic, obtainable goals is an integral part of the programme of recovery. Successful rehabilitation requires that the client understands their condition and that they take an active role in their rehabilitation programme.
