Opioid medications can provide a lot of pain relief to patients after surgery, but they are also highly addictive. It’s important to wean yourself off of these meds before they become habit-forming. In this physical therapy patient article, we are going to talk about the importance of weaning off of prescription opioids after surgery, and how physical therapy can be a helpful tool in this regard.
Avoiding Opioid Addiction
Prescription opioid medications are commonly prescribed to patients after surgical procedures. These are powerful drugs that are extremely effective at controlling intense pain. However, their addictive qualities make them a double-edged sword. In recent years, patients and doctors alike have become more aware of opioid addiction, and are taking steps to prevent opioid addiction before it strikes. That’s why it’s important for patients to not rely too heavily on prescription opioids for pain, and to wean themselves off of them as quickly as possible following a surgical procedure.
How Physical Therapy Can Help
Physical therapy can be an effective tool for patients who are trying to wean themselves off of prescription meds after surgery. A physical therapist can work with you before and after your procedure to develop an exercise and stretching strategy that will help reduce your pain and increase your mobility after a surgical procedure. Many surgeons recommend physical therapy for their patients after surgery for these reasons. The best part is that physical therapy treatment methods are completely natural and non-habit forming!
Minneapolis Physical Therapy Clinics
OrthoRehab Specialists is a full service physical therapy practice with clinics in Minneapolis and Edina. We regularly work with patients who are recovering from all kinds of surgical procedures. Our physical therapists work with patients to help them control their pain while weaning off of opioid medications. With nearly three decades of experience, we offer direct access to physical therapy for patients in Minnesota – meaning you can set up your appointment with us with or without a referral or prescription from another doctor. Contact us today at our Edina or Minneapolis physical therapy clinics to set up your appointment with one of our skilled physical therapists.