How Do I Know I’m Ready For Surgery?
Surgery...no one likes the sound of this ominous word, and with good reason. Surgery is a major decision, can be a risky procedure, and always brings a level of fear and uncertainty to the patient. Whether it is injury or illness, pain and misery can lead us to a place of desperation. We need answers, we need resolution, and we want it now. And therein lies the problem.
Successful healing isn’t always or even usually quick. But allowing desperation and frustration to lead us to premature surgery can later become a source of regret.
There are obviously times when surgery is absolutely the best option and sometimes the only option; however, that is certainly not always the case. Sometimes, there are other options, less invasive options. And don’t you owe it to yourself to be sure you make the very best decision possible? Of course you do!
Too many times, medical diagnosis can have a cookie cutter feeling. But here’s the thing...we are all different. We all have unique circumstances. We need more than a short-sighted approach to healing. We’ve all heard the “prescription” before...physical therapy 3 to 4 times a week for 4-6 weeks and then a follow up to see if this level of conservative care has been effective. If not, then guess what? The common suggestion is, you guessed it, surgery. And we come out of this situation feeling like we’ve done all we can, and this is the only option left to us. Physical therapy failed...but did it really?
The truth is that many injuries and conditions require more time than the typical 6 weeks of therapy allows. For example, my dad suffered a rotator cuff injury that led to a healing process involving 12 months of at home exercises and physical therapy sessions before lasting improvements could truly be seen. Surgery was suggested but he chose to continue building up strength and giving his body proper time to heal. Does he regret not going under the knife? Absolutely not!
Rotator cuff injuries are among several situations requiring more time to heal than commonly given by the medical world in general. Herniated discs are another injury example typically needing 6-12 months of therapy and recovery time for complete healing.
A licensed and experienced physical therapist is able to provide therapy sessions specifically designed for the patient’s needs and lifestyle goals, carefully prescribing at-home exercises intentionally created for you. With North Georgia Physical Therapy, you aren’t just another patient; you are part of our family. Let us help you recover with a unique program of wellness designed just for you. Wellness is more than just a 4-6 week session, it’s a lifestyle.
Dr. Josh