skilled nurses at Orchard View Post Acute greeting resident skilled nurses at Orchard View Post Acute greeting resident

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Rehabilitation After Surgery: What Happens When Recovery Takes Longer Than Expected? 

After surgery, recovery can take some time, and not every patient progresses the same way. While some people will quickly regain strength and mobility, others may take longer. Setbacks or just differing abilities can make recovery after surgery longer.  

For residents and families in Lewiston, ID, understanding what happens when recovery isn’t progressing as expected can help reduce anxiety. At Orchard View Post Acute, we offer the support residents need during rehabilitation after surgery. In this guide, we explore what happens when rehab takes longer than expected. 

What Can Cause Rehabilitation After Surgery to Take Longer? 

There is no set time for recovery. Some people naturally recover quickly. Generally, recovery depends on different factors like age, overall health, preexisting medical conditions, and the type of surgery.  

The main factors that can extend the length of rehabilitation after surgery include: 

  • Unforeseen pain, weakness, or fatigue 
  • Reduced strength and mobility caused by muscle weakness or decreased endurance after being in the hospital 
  • Complications after surgery like infections, wounds taking longer to heal, or other conditions 
  • Additional pain or discomfort that makes it difficult to participate in physical activity or exercises 
  • Trouble walking or balancing 
  • Complications from existing medical or new medical conditions 

Taking longer to recover doesn’t mean that the surgery wasn’t successful. Instead, it just may mean that the treatment plan may need to be adjusted based on the resident’s current abilities.   

How a Structured, Integrated Treatment Plan Can Help 

At Orchard View Post Acute, we have an interdisciplinary rehabilitation team who can help residents restore balance, mobility, flexibility, and endurance. As a resident improves in these areas, the rehabilitation program will be adjusted.  

If progress is slow, the team can reassess the resident’s abilities and come up with a plan for recovery. This plan will include: 

  • Physical therapy: This can help restore balance, strength, flexibility, and mobility via exercises and walking. 
  • Occupational therapy: Therapists will help residents relearn how to dress, bathe, prepare meals, and transition between furniture, cars, and the bath. 
  • 24/7 skilled nursing: Our nurses will provide ongoing support to help with healing after surgery. 

Coordinated care in a nursing and rehab facility can be beneficial for residents who are taking longer to heal. 

Why We Adjust Rehabilitation Goals 

If recovery is taking longer, then rehabilitation goals need to be tweaked based on the resident’s condition, abilities, and progress. If someone isn’t healing as expected, our rehabilitation team will reassess the treatment plan and determine if changes are needed. 

Establishing realistic milestones ensures that the individual stays positive and continues to engage in rehabilitation activities. We also encourage family members to participate in care, celebrate milestones, and keep communication lines open with the care staff. 

If we suspect that symptoms have worsened or other complications have developed, our rehabilitation team will work with the resident’s healthcare provider. We will seek immediate medical attention for symptoms like chest pain, shortness of breath, or other troubling signs. 

Trust Orchard View Post Acute’s Rehabilitation Team 

If you need rehabilitation after surgery, Orchard View Post Acute is the respected rehabilitation facility in Lewiston, ID. We have a welcoming community and a dedicated, compassionate staff. 

Learn more about our services now. Contact us today or schedule a free tour of our rehab and nursing center.