Post-Op Therapy Protocols
Physical therapy is an essential part of your surgical outcome. Following your therapy protocol is how you get from the operating table back to the life you want.
Post-Op Therapy Protocols content
Why PT Matters as Much as Surgery
Surgery corrects the structural problem. Physical therapy is what restores strength, range of motion, balance, and the neuromuscular control that lets you move confidently again. Patients who engage consistently with their therapy programs achieve better outcomes, faster.*
The Phases of Rehabilitation
Recovery follows a phased progression. Rushing ahead of this progression is one of the most common causes of setbacks. Each phase must be completed before advancing.*
- Phase 1: Protection & Pain Control. Reduce swelling, restore basic range of motion, and protect the repair.
- Phase 2: Strength Building. Add progressive resistance exercises as swelling resolves and range of motion returns.
- Phase 3: Functional Training. Practice movements that mirror real-life and sport demands.
- Phase 4: Return to Activity. Use sport-specific or activity-specific drills and assess readiness before full clearance.*
Finding a Physical Therapist
Dr. Sonntag's team can provide referrals to physical therapists experienced with the specific procedure you've had. If you have a preferred therapist, let the team know so the therapist can receive a protocol from the surgical team.*
- Look for a PT experienced with your specific procedure
- Attend all scheduled sessions; consistency is a key factor in outcomes
- Communicate any pain, swelling, or setbacks to both your PT and Dr. Sonntag's office
- Home exercise programs supplement but do not replace in-clinic therapy
Milestones, Not Timelines
Recovery timelines published online are averages. Your individual progression depends on age, baseline fitness, the extent of the injury, and your adherence to the protocol. Dr. Sonntag clears patients for activities based on milestone achievement, not calendar date.*
Do not compare your recovery to others. Focus on the metrics your therapist and surgeon are tracking, and ask questions if you're unsure where you stand.
When to Contact Dr. Sonntag's Office
Some events during recovery warrant a call to the surgical team, not just your therapist:*
- Sudden increase in pain or swelling after it was improving
- Fever above 101.5°F
- Increasing redness, warmth, or drainage at the surgical site
- New numbness or tingling
- Feeling or hearing a pop in the surgical area
*All content on this page is placeholder guidance. Dr. Sonntag's team will provide instructions specific to your procedure and individual health situation. Always follow the personalized instructions you receive at your pre-operative appointment.
Questions about your recovery?
Call Dr. Sonntag's office. His team is here to help you through every step.
(574) 319-9697Let's get you moving again.
Request a consultation and Dr. Sonntag's team will be in touch, typically within one business day. Most major insurance accepted.