LENGTHENING PHASE & PHYSICAL THERAPY

After discharge from the hospital, you will be transfered to nearby, extended stay accomodations where you will reside for the duration of the lengthening phase and begin your physical therapy regimen. It is important that you remain in the Las Vegas area during this critical phase of the procedure.

Physician & Clinical Follow-Up

Every 2 weeks you will see Dr. Debiparshad who will track your progress and review radiology reports to ensure that you are healing and adequately generating new bone. Any required or additional recommendations to prevent, address or mitigate any complications or to adjust the rate of distraction will be made at this time.

Physical Therapy

Physical therapy sessions consist of a minimum of 1 hour a day of exercise, 5 to 6 days per week. Our dedicated Physical Therapists have been specifically trained for the needs of our patients. We have developed engaging limb lengthening rehabilitation programs with the specific goal of restoring and maintaining range of motion and muscular strength. Exercise therapy programs include stretching excercises, in-pool therapy sessions and yoga and pilates classes.

Alternative Therapy Classes

The LimbplastX journey can be long and some patients may find themselves feeling social isolated. To help make this part of the procedure a more pleasurable and interactive experience, we have worked with senior fitness instructors to develop appropriate fitness classes that focus on stretching excercises.

These classes incorporate a combination of styles, including yoga and Pilates, to loosen and stretch soft tissues. Group session classes also provide a fun alternative to individual therapy and allow patients to enjoy increased social interaction. Classes are available weekly and based on demand.

Mobility Levels - PRECICE 2.2

Notice: It is very important that you abide by weight bearing restrictions as instructed.

Week 1: Upon discharge from the recovery suite you will be issued a wheelchair and crutches. It is important to begin to practice mobilizing with crutches with your therapist.

Week 2: You should be able to walk with crutches fairly well and can use a wheel chair for long distances. Pain at this point should be minimal.

Week 2 - 3: Most of our patients can begin driving at the 2-3 week mark as long as they are not impaired by pain medications and can safely enter and exit their vehicle.

Week 3 - Onwards: You should be able to walk comfortably with crutches.

Pain Management

Week 1: Pain is controlled with narcotic oral medications with tapering doses down to minimal quantities.*

Week 2: Patients will transfer to over-the-counter, non-NSAID medications, such as Tylenol®.

Week 3 - Onwards: Patients may find it useful to occassionally take pain medications or muscle relaxants prior to physical therapy sessions.

* The LimbplastX Institute is committed to limited, responsible use of opiate pain medications.

Nutrition

It is important that you follow prescribed dietary and supplement guidelines.

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