Post Spinal Surgery Nursing Care

People who suffer from chronic back pain often find relief through surgery. But the postoperative period is not without its challenges. For those who have been discharged from the hospital following spinal surgery but are not yet ready to return to independent living, skilled nursing care may be the best option for ensuring a smooth recovery. 

At Bella Vista Health Center’s five-star skilled nursing facility, patients healing from back surgery receive round-the-clock care and rehabilitative therapies from licensed medical professionals who are committed to helping them make a full recovery and regain their independence as quickly as possible. If you or a loved one is in need of post spinal surgery nursing care, here’s a little bit about what you can expect at Bella Vista.  

Patient monitoring

In the aftermath of spinal surgery, it can take some time for bodily systems to return to normal. During the early recovery process, some patients experience difficulty breathing, and infection or other complications can develop. At Bella Vista Health Center, licensed medical professionals are onsite 24-hours a day to monitor post-op symptoms and address potential complications as they arise. Patient monitoring may include blood tests to ensure safe blood oxygen levels, heart monitors to track heart rate and rhythm, and assessment of vital signs to monitor for infection. 

Pain management 

Pain management is a vital component of the recovery process after spinal surgery. Depending on patient needs, staff may administer medication, provide cold therapy, recommend changes in spinal positioning and spinal movement, or offer electrical stimulation. The alleviation of postoperative pain helps facilitate patient participation in recovery and healing.  

Wound care

After spinal surgery, surgical dressing covers the incision. The medical staff at Bella Vista will clean the incision site daily, change the bandages, and monitor for redness, pain, discharge, or other signs of infection. Patients who do develop infections are typically treated with antibiotics. Stitches or staples are removed around two weeks post-surgery. 

Physical therapy 

Physical therapy is key for a successful spinal surgery and a smooth recovery. Our licensed physical therapists are highly skilled and committed to helping patients restore optimal functioning. Physical therapy begins immediately after spinal surgery to improve blood flow, promote healing, and ensure proper alignment. Physical therapists help patients learn the safest ways to get out of bed, transfer to a chair, walk, and navigate stairs. Treatment plans may include frequent walks, muscle stretches, nerve stretches, and exercises to increase muscle strength and stabilize the spine. The goal of physical therapy is to restore physical functioning. 

Occupational therapy 

Patients at Bella Vista Health Center who are recovering from back surgery also meet regularly with an occupational therapist who addresses the patient’s ability to perform self-care activities and functional tasks. Occupational therapy following spinal surgery may involve instruction of alternate methods for dressing and bathing, often with the use of assistive devices, such as long-handled bath sponges, pants pullers, and sock donners. The goal of occupational therapy is to optimize patient independence. 

Nutritional therapy

Proper nutrition helps strengthen bones and muscles, heal wounds, prevent complications, and decrease recovery time. At Bella Vista Health Center, we have a registered dietician on staff to ensure that patients receive the nutrients they need to support their body’s natural healing process. We provide accommodations for allergies, medical conditions, dietary preferences, and religious needs. Our holistic approach to patient care is part of what sets us apart from other skilled nursing facilities. 

Recovering from spinal surgery? Let us help. 

Patients who come to Bella Vista Health Center to recover from spinal surgery receive top-notch skilled nursing care and rehabilitative therapies from compassionate medical professionals. Our comfortable facility and nurturing atmosphere can be your home away from home while you heal and regain your strength. There are countless reasons we maintain a five-star rating for excellence in patient care—come see for yourself! For more information on our skilled nursing and rehabilitative services, give us a call at 619-399-7920 today. 

Post-Surgery Depression: How to cope

Recovering from surgery can be a deeply emotional experience. The desire to return to your “normal” life right away may be overwhelming, but your body needs time to heal. You may find it difficult to get around or take care of yourself in the same way that you’re used to. You may experience pain and discomfort. And you may feel fear in the face of your own mortality.

If any of this sounds familiar, you could be struggling with postoperative depression. While depression is an all-too-common complication after surgery, it isn’t always properly diagnosed. But according to the medical journal, BMC Surgery, untreated post-surgical depression can lead to higher rates of infection, cognitive impairment, and acute and chronic pain.

To stay both physically and mentally healthy after surgery – and get back on the road to recovery as quickly as possible – it’s crucial to receive proper screening and timely treatment for postoperative depression.

Why People Get Depressed After Surgery

The exact cause of post-surgery depression is unknown, but certain contributing factors have been identified. For example:

• Reactions to pain relievers

• Reactions to anesthesia

• Lack of sleep

• Physical, mental, and emotional stress

• A history of depression or anxiety

Evidence also suggests certain surgeries put patients at higher risk of developing postoperative depression. MD Magazine reports patients undergoing hip replacements or brain surgery experience particularly high rates of depression. Also, according to the American Heart Association, depression affects up to 25 percent of cardiac surgery patients.

Signs of Post-Surgery Depression

The sooner you’re treated for depression, the better your chances of a rapid recovery from surgery. Knowing the warning signs can help you to obtain an early diagnosis and begin receiving treatment as soon as possible.

Symptoms of postoperative depression include:

• Persistent sad mood

• Feelings of worthlessness or hopelessness

• Loss of interest in once-beloved activities

• Irritability

• Significant changes in sleep patterns

• Loss of appetite

• Memory problems

• Thoughts of suicide or self-harm

How to Manage Depression After Surgery

Treatment for depression often includes some combination of medication and psychotherapy. Your doctor will determine a treatment plan that’s right for you, but lifestyle changes can help improve your mood and increase your chances of a speedy recovery.

Here are a few tips for managing postoperative depression:

• Establish routines.

Getting back in the swing of things can be difficult after surgery, especially if you’re dealing with pain and limited mobility. But routines give a purpose and structure to your days, providing you with much-needed stability. Stick to a regular sleep schedule, eat at regular intervals, and when possible, resume daily habits.

• Go outside.

Exercise isn’t always possible after surgery, but even a short, leisurely stroll in nature can have a significant positive impact on your outlook. Your energy improves simply by breathing fresh air and feeling the warm sun.

• Eat well.

A healthy diet provides your body and mind with the nutrients needed to heal properly. Foods high in omega-3 fatty acids can improve your mood, while those high in sugar, alcohol, or caffeine may exacerbate depression.

• Keep a journal.

Focus on the positive by maintaining a daily gratitude journal. Keeping track of small, daily wins can help you see the progress you’re making in your recovery – which can be especially beneficial when you’re feeling overwhelmed.

• Ask for help.

Don’t be afraid to reach out to friends and family members. Staying connected with loved ones can ward off depressive symptoms, and accepting help in establishing routines, preparing meals, or cleaning your house can take the pressure off and allow you to concentrate on your recovery.

Recover from surgery at Bella Vista Health Center

You don’t have to struggle with post-surgical depression alone. At Bella Vista Health Center in San Diego, we offer short-term rehab to help you recuperate from surgery in a safe, supportive, and therapeutic environment. We provide round-the-clock nursing care, healthy and delicious meals, and a full suite of rehabilitative services. Additionally, our medical staff monitors each of our patients for the symptoms of depression, ensuring timely treatment for a full, successful recovery.

For more information on our inpatient rehab program, call us at (619) 399-7920.

Rehab After Surgery Medicare Coverage

After undergoing major surgery, it’s normal to want to return to your old routines as quickly as possible. But pushing yourself too hard too fast could lead to medical complications or serious injuries. Easing back into day-to-day life is often the best approach – and an inpatient rehabilitation center can help you recover safely and effectively.

While you may be concerned about financing, many inpatient rehabilitation programs accept health insurance and offer manageable payment plans. If your doctor recommends inpatient rehab after your surgery, Medicare may cover many of the associated costs.

The Goal of Inpatient Post-Surgical Rehabilitation

Whether you’re recuperating from a hip or knee replacement, heart or lung surgery, or a cancer procedure, post-surgery rehab can help you to:

• Increase mobility and flexibility

• Prevent injuries

• Regain strength

• Manage pain

• Facilitate speedy healing

Depending on the type of surgery you’ve had, you may require anywhere from several weeks to several months of rehabilitation. Your specialized team of doctors, nurses, and therapists will work with you to devise a plan that meets your individual needs.

What Happens During Post-Surgical Rehab

No two rehab plans look exactly the same, but services commonly used in post-surgical rehabilitation include:

• Physical therapy in San Diego

Major surgery, particularly those involving joint replacements, can weaken your muscles, and limit your range of motion. Through regular exercises and mobility training, physical therapists help you regain your strength and improve your flexibility.

• Occupational therapy

After surgery, you may find it difficult to complete ordinary tasks of daily living, such as walking, getting dressed, or climbing the stairs. Occupational therapists work with you to develop strategies so you can overcome these difficulties and regain your independence.

• Speech therapy for adults

Surgery involving the head, neck, or mouth can impair speech, as well as make it difficult to swallow. Speech-language pathologists help you regain the ability to speak, eat, and communicate clearly.

• Pulmonary rehabilitation in CA

Patients who’ve had lung surgery work with respiratory therapists to improve their lung function, learn breathing strategies, and build endurance.

Inpatient facilities make it easy to coordinate your care between different medical professionals, as well as provide you with round-the-clock supervision and a safe, comfortable place to rest while your body recovers.

Medicare Eligibility for Rehab After Surgery

For those who need assistance paying for inpatient rehab after surgery, Medicare may help cover the costs. Medicare Part A covers hospital stays, including stays in a hospital rehab unit, but it will also cover rehab in a skilled nursing facility if it meets the following criteria:

• The care is deemed medically necessary; that is, the services provided in the skilled nursing facility are required to treat your current condition

• You have already completed a three-day hospital stay to treat the same condition for which you’re undergoing rehab

Prior to receiving approval for Medicare benefits, your doctor must certify that your medical condition requires intensive inpatient rehabilitation.

What Medicare Covers and What Medicare Doesn’t Cover

Your individual out-of-pocket charges will vary based on the specifics of your Medicare deductible and benefit period. In general, though, you should receive financial assistance for any of the following services:

• Rehabilitative care, including physical, occupational, speech, and respiratory therapy

• A semi-private room

• Meals during your stay

• Nursing care

• Medications

• General hospital supplies

However, Medicare will not cover any of the following:

• A private room, unless deemed medically necessary

• Private duty nurses

• In-room telephones or televisions

• Miscellaneous personal items, such as clothing or toiletries

Rehab after surgery at Bella Vista Health Center San Diego

If you’re planning to undergo major surgery, consider spending your recovery period at Bella Vista Health Center. Our five-star skilled nursing facility offers a comprehensive post-surgical rehabilitation program in a safe, comfortable, and nurturing environment. We accept Medicare, as well as most major insurance carriers, and will help you to determine the best method of financing your stay.

To schedule a tour of our beautiful San Diego facility, call us at (619) 399-7920.

What to Expect After Hip Replacement

As your doctor and all your research may have told you: Hip replacement surgery can dramatically change your quality of life. Although your pain won’t go away immediately, and it may remain difficult to get around for a few weeks after surgery, the long-term benefits of hip replacement are many. They include: 

• A significant decrease or even complete elimination of hip pain

• Improved joint movement 

• Increased strength and coordination of torso and leg

• Enhanced ability to live an active lifestyle

• Better quality of life

Recovery from hip replacement surgery does take time and effort. Physical therapy is one of the most crucial aspects of restoring your strength and mobility, and it begins within a day or two of your surgery. Here’s what to expect after a hip replacement: 

Early recovery 

In the immediate aftermath of your surgery, you may feel like lying in bed and watching daytime television. But you can expect a physical therapist to show up at your bedside and interrupt those plans as early as Day 1. The goal at this stage of recovery is to decrease the risk of clotting, ease pain and swelling, and aid in the mobility of your new joint. Your therapist will help you sit up in bed, maybe walk a step or two, and assist you with gentle exercises (such as ankle pumps, ankle rotations, quad sets, and gluteal sets) that can be done in bed. 

Transitioning out of the hospital 

By Day 3 or Day 4, you should be able to walk from the bed to the bathroom without assistance. You may also be walking longer distances with the aid of crutches or a walker.  At this point, you will likely be discharged from the hospital. Some patients go straight home, while others go to a rehab facility to continue the recovery process. For the elderly, those who require additional medical attention, or those who would otherwise benefit from the services offered at a skilled nursing facility, inpatient rehabilitation is usually the best option.  For those who opt to return home after the hospital, outpatient rehab facilities are staffed by trained and certified physical therapists and equipped with everything needed to help patients make a full recovery.   

Length of recovery time from hip replacement surgery

Regardless of whether you recover at home or at a rehab facility, following the instructions of your physical therapist is key to a full recovery. While each person is different and requires a customized rehabilitation plan, in general, physical therapists prescribe a combination of standing exercises to help improve balance and strength, daily walking and stair climbing to increase endurance and aid in circulation and joint mobility, and additional exercises chosen to help each individual return to the specific activities they love to do. 

The length of time it takes to recover from hip replacement surgery is different for each person. Most people experience rapid recovery in three to four months and then continue to improve at a slower rate for a year. While it may be tempting to stop your therapy once you’re up and moving around again, it’s important to continue your therapeutic program.  Working with a skilled and experienced physical therapist who can guide your rehabilitation and monitor your progress is the surest way to achieve a full recovery. 

Recovering from hip replacement surgery? We can help!

At Bella Vista Health Center, we offer customized hip replacement rehab and therapy programs in San Diego designed to help each patient recover as quickly as possible so they can get back to doing the things they love. Our skilled and experienced therapists and support staff are dedicated to quality care for each patient, and our 5-star skilled nursing facility provides a range of services and amenities to maximize patient comfort as well. For more information on our rehabilitation programs or to schedule a visit, give us a call today. 

Rehab After a Stroke: What to Expect

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, every 40 seconds, an American has a stroke, and nearly 800,000 Americans have a new or recurrent stroke every year. These are disturbing statistics, particularly considering the range of potentially devastating effects that strokes can cause, including death and irreparable brain damage. Strokes can also result in number of disabilities, including: paralysis, sensory disturbances, language and cognitive problems, and emotional troubles. Early recovery and rehabilitation, however, can have a significant impact, helping stroke survivors relearn skills and regain functioning.  

What is post-stroke rehabilitation?

Post-stroke rehabilitation is a goal-oriented treatment plan designed to help patients regain their independence and live their best lives. For some, this may mean restoring lost skills and making a full recovery. For others, it may mean learning new ways to perform tasks and manage disabilities.

Stroke affects different parts of the brain, each one responsible for different duties. For example, damage to the motor cortex in the right frontal lobe can result in weakness on the left side of the body. Or when stroke affects the parietal lobe on the left side, it can cause numbness or vision loss on the right side of the body. This means one person’s stroke may look nothing like a stroke suffered by another person.  The same is true for stroke rehabilitation.  

Although each treatment plan is different for each patient, most stroke rehabilitation teams will include some combination of the following: 

• Physicians – to manage and coordinate long-term care

• Rehabilitation nurses – to help manage personal care, such as bathing and dressing

• Physical therapists – to address disabilities related to motor and sensory impairment

• Occupational therapists – to help survivors relearn the skills needed to perform the tasks of daily living; to provide environmental modifications and teach the use of assistive devices

• Speech therapists – to help restore language skills or teach alternative means of communication; to improve patient ability to swallow

Of course, the duties and skills of each team member are far more extensive than described above, but the general idea is that stroke rehabilitation is a highly customized treatment plan that is different for each patient. 

What to expect from inpatient stroke rehabilitation at Bella Vista

The period after a stroke can be a particularly scary time. Strokes come on unexpectedly, leaving patients and their families on edge and uncertain about what the future may bring. Stroke rehabilitation facilities offer not only a complete rehab team under one roof, but also the peace of mind provided by 24-hour skilled nursing care and medical monitoring. 

At Bella Vista Health Center, residents in our inpatient stroke rehab program receive a minimum of 1.5 to 2 hours of therapy per day, as many as six days a week.  The goal of each treatment plan is optimal health and maximum independence. Key areas of focus include, but are not limited to: 

• Mobility training

• Range-of-motion therapy

• Motor skills exercises

• Balance and coordination

• Muscle strengthening

• Communication

• Cognition

• Memory retention

• Problem-solving

• Safety

• Health management

• Quality of life

Full recovery may take years, and some patients do not regain every skill lost to stroke. Stroke rehabilitation is not a guarantee of return to your previous skills and activities, but it can help optimize your independence and live your best life possible. Sometimes this will mean learning to adapt to new limitations or expanding your support system. At Bella Vista, we know stroke recovery is not an easy road, but we’ll be there for you every step of the way. 

Post-stroke rehabilitation in San Diego

At Bella Vista Health Center, our 5-star skilled nursing facility can be your home away from home. In fact, we can be even more than that. While you’re here with us, you won’t need to worry about cooking, laundry, or the many daily tasks you’re responsible for at home.  You can focus on recovery—we’ll do the rest. Our medical providers, rehabilitation therapists, and support staff are committed to doing everything we can to help you live your best life after stroke. 

Why Rehabilitation Is Key For Stroke Recovery

Stroke can happen to anyone, at any age, and the consequences can be severe. According to the National Stroke Association, stroke is the fifth leading cause of death in the United States and one of the leading causes of long-term adult disability.

Complications from stroke can rob you of your independence and make it difficult to perform daily tasks of living. But with the help of a stroke rehabilitation program, you can improve your quality of life, regain lost function, and maximize your independence.

The significant health effects of stroke

There are many health conditions that can arise in the wake of a stroke. Depending on which area of the brain suffers the most damage, stroke result in a range of disabilities with varying degrees of severity.

Some of the most common post-stroke issues include:

• Paralysis, often affecting one side of the body more severely than the other

• Intense pain or loss of sensation

• Urinary incontinence or loss of bowel control

• Inability to process language or communicate effectively

• Memory loss and confusion

• Emotional disturbances, including depression or personality changes

What is stroke rehabilitation?

While stroke rehabilitation cannot reverse brain damage, it can help stroke survivors relearn skills they lost and develop compensating methods for persistent disabilities. The goal of stroke rehabilitation is to achieve stability, maximize independence, and prevent another stroke from occurring.

A stroke rehabilitation team consists of a number of medical professionals working together to address all areas of recovery. In addition to doctors and nurses, members of the team usually include:

• Physical therapists to help with balance, movement, coordination, and mobility.

• Occupational therapists to teach strategies for completing everyday tasks, such as eating, bathing, and getting dressed.

• Speech-language pathologists to assist with language problems and, if necessary, improve problems with swallowing.

• Psychologists and psychiatrists to help develop healthy coping strategies. 

• Recreation therapists to aid participation in leisure activities that help maximize quality of life.

• Nutritionists and dietitians to encourage healthy eating, which can reduce the risk of another stroke.

• Social workers to act as an advocate for patients and families, and to help coordinate continuity of care following discharge.

The importance of stroke rehabilitation for recovery

The sooner stroke rehabilitation begins, the higher the likelihood of a successful recovery. Patients who are stable may begin their rehabilitation while still in the hospital, as early as 48 hours after the stroke has occurred. Once discharged, some stroke survivors may return home, while those who are severely impacted may transition to an inpatient stroke rehabilitation program at a skilled nursing facility for long-term care.

The duration of stroke rehab varies depending on the severity of the stroke and subsequent symptoms; in some cases, rehabilitation can take months or even years. While this can be a lengthy and sometimes frustrating process, keeping a positive attitude and staying committed to the rehabilitation program is crucial to recovery. 

Stroke rehabilitation at Bella Vista Health Center

Stroke recovery is a process, and the best way to optimize your recovery is with strong team to guide and support you every step of the way. Bella Vista Health Center can give you a head start toward independence. Our inpatient stroke rehabilitation program in San Diego offers daily, individualized treatments in a caring, comfortable environment. As a 5-star nursing facility, we prioritize the wellbeing of our patients and their loved ones, providing every resident with top-notch medical care and a positive, nurturing experience to support their recovery and get them back to living their best lives as quickly as possible. 

For more information on our stroke rehabilitation program, call us at (619) 644-1000.

Do You Need Physical Therapy After Hip Replacement?

For people suffering from severe arthritis or significant hip injuries, hip replacement surgery can greatly improve their quality of life. The goal of hip replacement is to relieve pain and increase mobility, making it easier and more comfortable to walk around.

But the surgery itself is not a miracle cure. To get the most out of a hip replacement, it's essential to participate in a formal physical therapy program.

What is a hip replacement?

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, over 300,000 Americans undergo hip replacement surgery each year. There are two types of hip replacement surgery:

Total hip replacement replaces both the ball and socket of the hip joint with artificial parts made of metal or plastic components.

Partial hip replacement replaces only the ball of the hip joint, leaving the natural socket in place.

The most common reason for hip replacement surgery is pain related to osteoarthritis, but it may be recommended for certain types of hip fractures or tumors.

Benefits of physical therapy after hip replacement

After hip replacement surgery, you'll need to strengthen the muscles surrounding your joint to be able to use it properly. For this, your surgeon will likely refer you to a physical therapist for rehabilitation. Not only will physical therapy speed up your recovery, but it will also help to:

• Prevent injury

• Ease pain

• Restore movement

• Improve circulation

• Avoid blood clots

• Promote independence

In general, you should be able to begin your rehabilitation program while you're still in the hospital, as soon as 24 hours after the hip replacement procedure.

What to expect during hip replacement rehabilitation

After performing a full assessment, your physical therapist will design a customized treatment program to help you get moving as soon as possible. While no two treatment plans will look the same, you can usually expect to engage in exercises to strengthen your thighs, glutes, and pelvic muscles. This will help improve your balance, as well as your ability to stand and walk on your own.

As your therapy progresses, you'll move onto more specific actions to help you accomplish daily tasks, such as:

• Getting into and out of beds and chairs

• Putting on socks and shoes

• Climbing stairs

The average time for hip replacement recovery takes between four and six weeks, but your experience may vary based on your condition and your overall health.

How to encourage healing after a hip replacement

While it's imperative to take an active role in your physical therapy after a hip replacement, there are some other things you can do to help encourage faster healing:

• Sit in firm chairs with straight backs. Avoid recliners.

• Use elevated toilets seats to avoid bending at the waist.

• Remove tripping hazards, such as area rugs or loose wires.

• Minimize stair climbing, if possible.

• Keep items at waist level to avoid reaching up high or bending down low.

In the months following your hip replacement surgery, you will likely need help from loved ones with house cleaning, meal preparation, or making adjustments to your home, so you can fully focus on your recovery.

If you don't have help at home, or if you're at an elevated risk of health complications, your doctor may suggest you complete your physical therapy at an inpatient hip replacement rehabilitation program, like the one at Bella Vista Health Center.

Inpatient hip replacement rehab at Bella Vista Health Center

At Bella Vista Health Center in San Diego, we offer individualized treatment for patients recovering from hip replacement surgery. Our competent, caring physical therapists will help you get back on your feet as quickly as possible, while the nursing staff at our 5-star skilled nursing facility provide you with round-the-clock medical attention and moral support.

For more information about our hip replacement rehab, call us at (619) 644-1000 today.

What is inpatient rehabilitation?

After a debilitating illness, major surgery, or acute injury, there can often be a long road to recovery, but participation in therapeutic rehabilitation increases the likelihood of regaining full mobility, function, and independence.

Inpatient rehabilitation refers to treatment and services provided in a facility where patients stay for a given period of time. It provides a higher level of care than outpatient or in-home programs, leading to a faster, more complete recovery. In addition to intensive treatment, 24-hour care and high quality equipment and facilities, inpatient rehab also gives patients a break from meal preparation, laundry, and other household chores, allowing them to focus on healing.  

If your doctor has recommended an intensive inpatient rehabilitation program to get you back on your feet, you may have some questions about what that means. Read on to understand more about inpatient rehabilitation and what you can expect moving forward on your journey to recovery.

Who benefits from inpatient rehabilitation?

In general, inpatient rehabilitation may be appropriate for people who have experienced physical trauma, have undergone surgery, or are struggling with an ongoing illness that prevents them from functioning in their current environment. Some conditions that are often treated in inpatient rehab include:

• Stroke

• Spinal cord injury

• Traumatic brain injury

• Amputation

• Joint replacement

• Severe orthopedic injuries

• Degenerative illness, such as arthritis or Parkinson’s disease

• Cardiovascular or pulmonary disease

What to expect from inpatient rehabilitation

Because all inpatient rehabilitation treatment plans are individualized, no two people will have the same experience. However, all rehabilitation patients will work with a dedicated team of medical professionals who develop treatment goals, administer therapy, and prioritize patient health, safety, and comfort. The treatment team may include:

• Doctors

Patients are assigned a primary physician who oversees care, tracks progress, and determines readiness to advance to the next stage of recovery.

• Physical therapists

Through exercise, training, and specialized treatment modalities, physical therapists help patients to build up strength and alleviate discomfort.

• Occupational therapists

The goal of occupational therapy is to restore the ability to participate in daily activities of living. This sometimes means using environmental modifications, assistive devices, and adaptive equipment.

• Speech-language pathologists

For those suffering from a neurological or musculoskeletal condition that affects speech or the ability to swallow, a speech-language pathologist will create a treatment plan designed to optimize functioning.

• Rehabilitation nurses

Nurses at rehabilitation centers focus on providing a therapeutic environment while treating medical conditions according to each patient’s plan of care.

• Counselors and psychiatrists

Mental health is an important part of recuperating physically. Inpatient rehabilitation programs provide access to mental health services to help patients develop coping skills and manage stress levels.

Inpatient rehabilitation hospitals vs. skilled nursing facilities

Sometimes, choosing an inpatient rehabilitation facility can be a challenge. While both hospitals and skilled nursing facilities offer inpatient rehabilitation services, the two environments have differing levels of care.

• Inpatient rehabilitation hospitals, or rehabilitation units, offer intensive therapy and acute care for patients who have more urgent medical needs. They generally have a high nurse to patient ratio and patients receive more focused and frequent attention from doctors. Daily therapy sessions are long, with a required minimum of at least three hours per day, but the average length of stay in an inpatient rehabilitation hospital is rather short.

• Skilled nursing facilities provide post-acute care in a transitional environment after hospital rehabilitation has ended. Patients in skilled nursing facilities often do not require complex medical care and may not see a physician every day. They may also receive shorter daily therapy sessions, but usually stay for a much longer period of time, from several weeks to several months.

Your medical team can help you decide whether an inpatient rehabilitation hospital or a skilled nursing facility is right for you.

Bella Vista Health Center offers post-acute rehabilitation services

If you’re seeking post-acute inpatient rehabilitation in San Diego, Bella Vista Health Center can bridge the gap between the hospital and home. We offer both short-term rehabilitation and long-term care in a calm and nurturing environment, with a goal of maximizing quality of life for our patients while helping them to live as independently as possible.

For more information about inpatient rehabilitation at our San Diego skilled nursing facility, call us at (619) 399-7920.

Rehab After Knee Replacement

If you have pain in your knee that limits your daily activities or inflammation that doesn’t get better with rest and medication, you might be considering knee replacement surgery. Having your damaged knee joint replaced with artificial parts may sound extreme or even scary, but knee replacement surgery is very common. More than 600,000 procedures are performed every year in the U.S., and 90 percent of people who have knee replacement surgery see a remarkable improvement in their pain and mobility.

While it’s important to choose an experienced and reputable surgeon for your knee replacement, the operation itself is only part of the equation. The success of your knee replacement surgery largely depends on how well you take care of yourself in the days, weeks, and months following the procedure.

At this point, you may be wondering what to expect immediately after your knee replacement and how long it will take before you can get back to your normal activities. While recovery is different for everyone, a stay at a skilled nursing and rehabilitation facility can expedite the healing process and ensure the best possible outcome.

Rehab after knee replacement surgery

Unlike many surgeries, which require plenty of rest and relaxation post-op, rehab after knee replacement surgery begins almost immediately. Most patients are instructed to stand and move around with the assistance of a walker just hours after surgery. The following day, you’ll likely receive a visit from a physiotherapist. He or she will teach you gentle exercises that will help you put weight on your knee and prevent scar tissue from impacting the flexibility of your new joint. Most patients stay in the hospital for three to five days after a knee replacement surgery before being transferred to a knee replacement rehabilitation center.

Knee replacement rehabilitation center

After knee replacement surgery, many patients are transferred to a knee replacement rehabilitation center for continued care. There, a team of doctors and therapists will develop an individualized treatment plan designed to shorten your recovery time and facilitate your return home. Typically, rehab after knee replacement surgery includes daily physical therapy sessions that include a combination of exercises and other treatment modalities designed to improve your range of motion, strength, and balance.

Exercises

Your physical therapist will guide you through gentle exercises that will become more challenging as you progress. You may be asked to ride a stationary bike to improve the amount your knee bends and straightens. Quadricep squeezes, straight leg raises, ankle pumps, and supported knee bends will improve your range of motion and strengthen your leg muscles without putting stress on your knee joint.

Strength, balance, and gait training

Depending on your unique needs, your physical therapist may administer electrical stimulation treatments to improve the strength of your leg muscles and encourage quadricep contractions. You may also be guided through static balance training and dynamic balance training that includes bending to pick up objects off the floor, stepping over obstacles, and climbing stairs.

You will likely use a walker or cane when you begin rehab after knee replacement surgery. By the end of your inpatient treatment, you should be able to walk without an assistive device, safely get out of bed, use the bathroom, and walk up and down a flight of stairs. Most patients continue outpatient physical therapy once they get home to continue making progress.

Short and long-term recovery

Many patients find that they can resume normal activities three to six weeks after knee replacement surgery. But, recovery doesn’t stop there. By gradually increasing your physical activity, under the guidance of a doctor, you’ll start to feel better than you did before surgery. Most patients reach this stage between three and six months after knee replacement surgery.

Looking for a knee replacement rehabilitation center in San Diego? Call Bella Vista Health Center

When it comes to recovering from knee replacement surgery, everyone heals at a different pace. However, you can shorten your recovery time by enrolling in a rehabilitation program that is designed to address your specific needs. At Bella Vista Health Center, we understand the challenges of recovering from a major operation and make every effort to ensure your rehab after knee replacement surgery is comfortable and successful. Call us at (619) 399-7920 to learn more about our five star skilled nursing facility or to schedule a tour.

Recovery Options After Orthopedic Surgery

If you’ve had surgery in the past, you may have left the hospital with instructions to take it easy and rest. After orthopedic surgery, though, the recovery process begins right away. As soon as you are cleared by your surgeon, you’ll either be discharged to follow an at-home rehabilitation program or transferred to another facility where you can receive continued care and begin physical therapy to regain movement, strength, and function.

While most people are eager to go home after a hospital stay, choosing to complete orthopedic surgery recovery at a skilled nursing and rehabilitation facility can shorten your recovery time and help prevent a return trip to the hospital. At Bella Vista Health Center, our goal is to provide a comfortable place to recover that feels like home with the added benefit of 24-hour support from compassionate caregivers and medical professionals.

Services a skilled nursing and rehabilitation facility can provide include

Comfortable accommodations

The guest rooms at skilled nursing and rehabilitation facilities are designed with comfort and function in mind. Adjustable beds, grab bars in the bathroom, and accessible showers are just a few of the details that can help facilitate a smooth and safe recovery. At Bella Vista Health Center, you can choose between a private or semi-private room where you can recover and rehabilitate in comfort.

Physical therapy

Physical therapy is a critical component to a successful orthopedic surgery recovery program. With guidance from your surgeon, a team of licensed physical therapists will develop a customized care plan with exercises designed to restore mobility and strength. At Bella Vista Health Center, your physical therapy program may also include massage, joint mobilization, gait training, and hot/cold therapy, depending on your initial evaluation and ongoing assessments.

Occupational therapy

While physical therapists focus on strengthening injured tissues and muscles, occupational therapists adapt tasks and a patient’s physical environment to aid with activities of daily living. For example, if you’re recovering from knee replacement surgery, your occupational therapist may provide adaptive equipment to assist you with bathing or cooking. At Bella Vista Health Center, occupational therapy is often part of the same overall care plan for patients recovering from orthopedic surgery.

Nutritious meals

When you’re recovering from orthopedic surgery, it can be challenging to cook for yourself, let alone eat three healthy meals a day. At a skilled nursing facility, you’ll benefit from eating nutritious and culturally diverse foods that keep meal time exciting. Best of all, you don’t have to grocery shop, cook, or clean!

Social activities

Recovering from orthopedic surgery at home can feel isolating, especially when limited mobility makes it difficult to leave the house. A skilled nursing and rehabilitation facility offers plenty of opportunities for socialization. At Bella Vista Health Center, we have a full calendar of optional events that include sports, games, crafts, live music, karaoke, and movie nights.

24-hour support

By choosing to complete your orthopedic surgery recovery at a skilled nursing and rehabilitation facility, you have access to medical professionals 24 hours a day. This means someone is always nearby to assist with dressing, bathing, using the restroom, and taking pain management medications.

Orthopedic Surgery Aftercare at Bella Vista Health Center

Whether it’s a hip replacement recovery, recovery after knee surgery, or another type of bone or joint procedure, the road to recovery after an orthopedic surgery can be a long and difficult one. Those who undergo musculoskeletal operations often have limited mobility of the arms or legs, which can make it especially challenging to bathe, dress, toilet, and perform other daily activities.

At Bella Vista Health Center, our goal is to promote a warm and inviting environment where you or your loved one can recover in comfort. In addition to compassionate nursing and comfortable accommodations, we have a team of licensed physical and occupational therapists on staff who will plan a personalized orthopedic surgery recovery program designed to help you return to independent living as quickly as possible.

Call us today at (619) 399-7920 to learn more about orthopedic surgery recovery at Bella Vista Health Center or to schedule a tour of our five-star skilled nursing facility.