It’s normal for both kids and parents to feel scared about bone surgery. Once the surgery is done, the focus shifts to recovery, and physical therapy becomes an important part of the process. While the surgery itself is handled by the child surgeon in Siliguri, the care after requires patience and a well-structured plan. Physical therapy helps your child regain strength, mobility, and confidence in moving their body parts you use to move safely. Let’s break down everything you need to know about handling physical therapy after bone surgery in kids.
Why Do You Need Physical Therapy After Bone Surgery
You might think that once the surgery is over, your child will naturally heal in their own way. Bones can heal on their own, but getting better after surgery takes more than just rest. Kids’ exercise therapy (physiotherapy) is very important for helping with:
- Improving mobility: After surgery, joints and muscles can get stiff. Physical therapy helps loosen these areas gently.
- Strengthening muscles: Surgery can weaken the surrounding muscles. Exercises target these muscles to restore strength.
- Reducing pain and swelling: Certain movements and stretches improve blood flow, reducing discomfort.
- Preventing long-term complications: Without proper rehab, children may develop stiffness, poor posture, or limited range of motion.
A clear recovery plan, guided by your child’s doctor, helps your child heal safely and well.
First Steps Toward Getting Started with Physical Therapy
1. Follow the Doctor’s Instructions
Every child’s surgery and recovery are different. The first step is always to follow the instructions given by your pediatric orthopedic care team. This includes:
- Only do the exercises your doctor or therapist has approved.
- Each session should last only as long as the doctor or therapist recommends.
- When your doctor says it’s safe, your child can slowly start putting weight on the leg.
- Your child should avoid certain movements until the doctor says it’s safe.
Ignoring these instructions can slow down healing or cause injury.
2. Create a Comfortable Environment
Physical therapy can feel like work for kids, so make it fun and comfortable. You can:
- Use colorful mats or soft surfaces for exercises
- Play their favorite music or videos during sessions
- Break exercises into small, manageable steps
- Celebrate small milestones to encourage participation
A positive environment helps your child stay motivated and reduces anxiety about exercise.
Fun and Safe Exercises for Kids After Surgery
Depending on the type of bone surgery, your child may be recommended different exercises. Here are common categories:
1. Range-of-Motion Exercises
These exercises focus on gently moving joints to prevent stiffness. Examples include:
- Stretching fingers or toes
- Bending and straightening knees or elbows slowly
- Gentle shoulder or hip rotations
2. Strengthening Exercises
Once the bones and joints are stable, strengthening exercises help muscles support the healing bone. Examples:
- Light resistance band exercises
- Balance activities like standing on one leg with support
- Small squats or step-ups (if allowed by the doctor)
3. Mobility and Walking Exercises
If the surgery involves legs or hips, walking and movement exercises are key. Using walkers, crutches, or supportive shoes as instructed ensures safety.
4. Fun Activity-Based Therapy
For younger kids, turning exercises into games helps. For example:
- Throwing a soft ball to encourage arm movement
- “Simon Says” with stretches
- Dancing to music to improve balance and coordination
This type of pediatric physiotherapy helps children stay engaged while improving their recovery.
Supporting Your Child During Recovery
Parents play a huge role in child surgery associated with recovery. Here are some tips to make the process smoother:
1. Be Patient and Positive
Recovery can be slow. Avoid pressuring your child. Encourage your child by celebrating small wins and reassure them that healing takes time.
2. Keep a Routine
Set a regular time for exercise each day. Consistency is key to making progress.
3. Watching Pain and Swelling
A little discomfort is normal, but if your child has sharp pain, swelling, or numbness, call the surgeon right away.
4. Use Proper Equipment
Always use the braces, crutches, or walkers your doctor prescribes and don’t use any homemade or makeshift alternatives.
5. Encourage Independence
As your child gains strength, let them try exercises on their own while you watch. This helps them gain confidence and recover faster.
Signs You Should Get Professional Advice
Home exercises are helpful, but sometimes your child will need help from a doctor or therapist.
- Limited movement after a few weeks of exercise
- Swelling or redness around the surgery site
- Severe pain that medicine doesn’t help
- Trouble walking or using the limb as instructed.
In these cases, it’s important to contact your child’s surgeon or a licensed pediatric physiotherapist to keep recovery safe and on track.
Making Physical Therapy Fun for Kids
One of the hardest parts is keeping kids interested. Here are some fun ways to help:
- Use timers or small rewards for finishing exercises
- Turn stretches into animal movements, like ‘reach like a giraffe’
- Include toys that make them move
- Let siblings join for friendly competitions”
These simple strategies make rehabilitation less scary and more enjoyable.
Final Thoughts
Recovering from bone surgery can take time, but with the right physiotherapy, kids can get back to full strength and movement. Always follow the surgeon’s instructions, keep a safe and positive environment, and slowly increase activity. Consistency, patience, and encouragement are the keys to a successful recovery.
Physical therapy isn’t just exercises; it helps your child feel confident, strong, and independent again. With proper planning and support, they can safely return to their daily activities and enjoy them.
Schedule a consultation with Dr. Manish Madhav today and give your child the support they deserve.
