Osteotomy describes procedures that reduce, shorten or change the shape of a bone. The procedure reduces a deformity, repairs an injury or is performed for cosmetic purposes based on individual needs. The type of exercise you will participate in following osteotomy is based on the type of procedure you undergo.
Types
Osteotomy can be performed on many different bones in your body including hands, fingers, toes, arms, legs, nose, chin or jaw and the vertebrae or small bones in your spine. The procedure can offer pain relief caused by arthritis. Bunion removal is an example of an osteotomy performed to reduce pain and deformity. Surgery to reduce or change the shape of an individual's nose in an example of cosmetic osteotomy.
Post-Operative Knee Exercises
Common sites for osteotomy are the knee and hip. Extensive rehabilitation and exercise will follow surgery in either of these areas. Your surgeon likely will refer you for physical therapy following osteotomy to help restore the function of the joint or body part. The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons weighs in on the importance of exercise following knee surgery. It suggests that your doctor may recommend 20 to 30 minutes of exercise two to three times per day during your early post-operative recovery period. Some early exercises you may be involved in after knee surgery include tightening your thigh muscles, straight leg raises, ankle pumps, knee straightening and knee bends.
Post-Operative Hip Exercises
If you have a hip replacement, your doctor may ask you to perform the following exercises: ankle pumps and rotations along with knee bends are useful to improve your hip movement, circulation and muscle strength. Glute contractions, abduction and quadriceps sets all help to strengthen muscles in your direct hip area. As your recovery progresses, you will be doing standing exercises such as hip extensions and abductions. Walking is an excellent exercise, according to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. Begin with five or 10 minutes three to four times per day as your strength dictates. Your physical therapist will act as your guide to determine how much and which type of exercise is best based on your progress.
Rehabilitation
Your rehabilitation exercises depend on the type of surgery you had, the location, your age and health. If you have chronic medical conditions, your physical therapist and physician may suggest special exercises to take into account your abilities during your rehabilitation. In addition to exercise and physical therapy, you may be involved in therapy to help perform everyday activities such as bathing and dressing. An occupational therapist may suggest adaptive equipment to help you regain your independence while allowing you to use your affected body part during the healing process.
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