Try Physical Therapy Before Having Surgery
There are a lot of reasons to consider physical therapy before electing to undergo surgery. One big plus is that it can help you prepare for the surgery (often called prehabbing) and have a speedier recovery. And even for some, physical therapy may eliminate the need for surgery altogether.
At A2 Physical Therapy in Tacoma, there are several treatment options — from massage to personal training, and spinal treatment and rehab, soft-tissue manipulation with tools, and cutting-edge technology like the NEUBIE (neuro-Bio-Electric Stimulator) that helps the body heal itself quicker. It’s the only one of its kind in the state and available exclusively at A2.
Some research indicates that 10 to 20 percent of surgeries might be unnecessary and people might find satisfactory outcomes when they try more conservative options — like physical therapy — first. That’s important because all surgeries come with some risk, so if you can avoid having one with an alternative treatment, that is preferable.
Of course, physical therapy can’t fix every health problem, and for some surgery is the best choice. However, exploring how physical therapy can help make the surgery go smoother, the recovery time go faster, or (fingers crossed) possibly avoided, is worth a conversation with your health care provider. At A2, getting patients strong and healthy is the ultimate goal and we have a lot of tools that just might help you avoid the operating room — and be feeling your best sooner.
"Dear Alika- I want to tell you how great A2 has been in helping me to succeed in getting better after my stroke. Your staff is not only knowledgeable but funny at the same time. They don’t make physical therapy seem tough; but they make it fun by teaching us the right way to stand, asking us how we are and encouraging us to reach our goals. My goal has always been to get back to “normal.” I appreciate all of your staff immensely. They are all great. You always have my recommendation for where to go for P.T."
− Crestina
"I came to A2 PT to assist in my recovery of a torn Achilles tendon. Not fully knowing what to expect, I was pleasantly surprised. Using a combination of PT (for strengthening and stretching) and massage (for scare tissue Break up) I feel my recovery has been accelerated. The whole crew Alika, Kristi, and Sophia are very kind, spirited, and passionate about their jobs! On a personal note, the word massage should be removed from the phrase deep tissue massage. It is very misleading-but it does work!
Keep up the great work gang!!"
− Christopher
"Physically and mentally as healthy as I can be is my goal. My father lived to 93 and fairly healthy physically and mentally. My mother is 96 years old and is failing mentally and physically. I have watched the good and bad of aging. My chances of longevity is good but I want to be mentally and physically as healthy as I can be. Not until I started working out with Kristi Cruz at A2 did I know how to prepare myself for my road ahead. Kristi has given me the tools and information for me to understand what I need. She has led me by my hands and feet to improve me physically and talked and explained to help me understand the process. Working out with Kristi two or three times per week is a priority and my recipe for good mental and physical health. My name is Geri Markham and I am 71 years old. I feel as fit as I could be at my age. I have to give all the credit to Kristi Cruz at A2 for walking with me through the process. I would recommend Kristi totally if you are interested in learning to be physically and mentally healthy as you move on in life. Life is good thanks to A2 and Kristi Cruz."
− Geri