Maximum Recovery in Children with Post-Surgical Physical Therapy

In conditions such as cerebral palsy, motor development delay, genetic deformities, muscle diseases, congenital hip dislocation, leg and foot deformities, the child’s daily life activities can become more challenging. In this process, by planning orthopedic surgery and physical therapy simultaneously, we aim to best support the benefits of surgery and achieve optimal results from the treatment process.

Why is Post-Surgical Physical Therapy Important?

Orthopedic surgeries bring bones and joints to the correct anatomical position; however, post-surgical physical therapy is of great importance for permanent and functional gains. In this process, physical therapy:

• Increases muscle strength while supporting bones and joints in the correct position
• Preserves joint range of motion and prevents stiffness formation
• Ensures the permanence of gains achieved through surgery
• Reduces pain, swelling, and movement limitation
• Prevents the risk of deformity recurrence
• Aims for the child to return to daily life activities faster, safer, and more independently

This holistic approach enhances the effectiveness of surgical treatment and optimally supports the child’s functional development.

Botox and Muscle Relaxation Treatment

In cerebral palsy and similar neurological conditions, increased tension (tone) may be observed in certain muscle groups. This increased tension can negatively affect movement control and functional abilities.

Botulinum toxin (Botox) injections:

• Temporarily relaxes muscles
• Enables muscle strengthening during physical therapy
• Facilitates correct positioning
• Supports gaining joint range of motion
• Increases movement ability

Thus, your child can do exercises more comfortably and the recovery process accelerates.

Rehabilitation After Bone and Joint Surgeries

Surgeries performed in conditions such as congenital hip dislocation or crooked leg/foot aim to correct your child’s walking and preserve joint health.

Post-surgical physical therapy:

• Preserving joint range of motion
• Strengthening muscles
• Keeping joints in correct position
• Facilitating return to daily life activities

Every child’s needs are different; therefore, the physical therapy program is planned according to the child’s special condition and development level.

Importance of Multidisciplinary Team Work

A multidisciplinary team is necessary for your child to recover healthily. This team consists of the following specialists:

Team Members

• Neurologist: A specialist physician who monitors muscle tone, movement control, and neurological development.
• Pediatrician: A specialist physician who provides general health, growth, and nutrition monitoring.
• Orthopedist: A specialist physician who evaluates the child’s musculoskeletal system, plans diagnosis and treatment of problems related to bones, joints, and posture, and performs surgical interventions when necessary.
• Physiotherapist: A healthcare professional who supports the child’s motor development by considering individual needs, and creates personalized treatment and rehabilitation programs based on comprehensive assessments.
• Occupational Therapist: A healthcare professional who conducts personalized assessment and intervention programs aimed at developing fine motor skills, hand-eye coordination, and self-care competencies to support the child’s active participation in daily life.
• Orthotics/Prosthetics Team and Assistive Device Specialists: A specialist who plans necessary support devices and ensures their application and adaptation.

Family Participation

Families, working together with this team:

• Support the child’s home exercises
• Increase motivation
• Ensure participation in daily life activities

Harmony and communication within the team are very important for the family to be properly informed and guided, and for the child’s both physical and emotional development.

Conclusion

Conducting surgical and physical therapy processes in an integrated manner enhances treatment effectiveness and supports the child’s functional development.

As Trea Kids, we are with you in your child’s post-surgical physical therapy process. Together with our expert team, we ensure that your child reaches their maximum recovery potential.