Pediatric Surgery Recovery

Helping Kids Heal and Regain Strength After Surgery

Has your child experienced surgery to address an injury or other developmental concern? They may need help getting back to their normal activities. Whether it’s orthopedic surgery, a broken bone, or a surgical procedure for other medical disorders, the recovery process can be challenging for children. Proper rehabilitation is essential to restore mobility, rebuild strength, and prevent long-term complications.

At Twin Hearts Physical Therapy in Glenpool, OK, we provide personalized pediatric physical therapy to help children heal safely and efficiently after surgery. Our expert therapists use evidence-based techniques to ensure your child regains strength, flexibility, and confidence.

Concerned about your child’s post-surgery recovery? Schedule an evaluation today!

How Long Does It Take a Child to Recover from Surgery?

Recovery timelines vary depending on the type of surgery, but most children begin to regain mobility and strength within a few weeks. However, without guided rehabilitation, some children may experience prolonged stiffness, reduced range of motion, or delayed return to normal activities.

  • Minor Surgeries: Recovery typically takes 1-3 weeks with gradual return to normal activities.

  • Orthopedic Surgeries (Fractures, ACL, Hip Surgeries): Full recovery may take 2-6 months and often several months, depending on the complexity of the procedure.

  • Major Surgeries (Spinal or Neurological Procedures): Rehabilitation may take 6-8 months or longer, with a focus on rebuilding strength and mobility.

Physical therapy plays a critical role in accelerating recovery, minimizing discomfort, and preventing long-term mobility issues.

Common Pediatric Surgeries That May Require Physical Therapy

  • Orthopedic Surgeries: Fractures, ACL reconstruction, hip dysplasia correction, and growth plate surgeries.

  • Neurological Surgeries: Cerebral palsy-related procedures or spinal surgeries.

  • Abdominal or Thoracic Surgeries: Procedures affecting the abdomen or chest that may impact mobility and core strength.

  • Soft Tissue Surgeries: Tendon releases or scar tissue management procedures.

  • Post-Trauma Rehabilitation: Rehabilitation after traumatic injuries or emergency surgeries.

Our team tailors treatment plans based on the type of surgery and your child’s unique recovery goals.

Signs Your Child May Need Physical Therapy After Surgery

When to Consider Post-Surgery Rehabilitation

While some children recover quickly after surgery, others may need extra support to regain strength and mobility. Consider physical therapy if your child is experiencing:

  • Persistent stiffness, tightness, or discomfort

  • Difficulty moving the affected limb or body part

  • Delayed return to walking, running, or playing

  • Weakness or imbalance after surgery

  • Limited range of motion or difficulty with daily tasks

Early intervention with pediatric physical therapy can help prevent long-term issues and improve overall recovery outcomes.

How Pediatric Physical Therapy Helps After Surgery

Rebuilding Strength, Mobility, and Confidence

Our specialized pediatric physical therapy programs address post-surgery concerns by focusing on:

  • Pain Management & Swelling Reduction: Using gentle techniques to reduce discomfort and promote healing.

  • Restoring Range of Motion: Stretching and mobility exercises to prevent stiffness and improve flexibility.

  • Strengthening Muscles & Core Stability: Targeted exercises to rebuild strength and balance.

  • Gait Retraining & Movement Correction: Helping children regain normal walking patterns and posture.

  • Scar Tissue Management: Preventing adhesions and maintaining soft tissue mobility.

Our therapy sessions are play-based and engaging, keeping children motivated while focusing on their recovery goals.

Our Comprehensive Post-Surgery Therapy Approach

Customized Care to Support Healing and Prevent Complications

At Twin Hearts PT, we develop personalized recovery plans based on the type of surgery and your child’s unique needs. Our therapy approach includes:

  • Pain Relief & Scar Tissue Management – Gentle massage and soft tissue techniques to reduce discomfort and prevent adhesions.

  • Stretching & Flexibility Exercises – Improving range of motion and reducing stiffness in the affected area.

  • Strength & Balance Training – Rebuilding strength and stability to support proper movement and prevent re-injury.

  • Gait Training & Mobility Practice – Helping children return to walking, running, and playing with confidence.

  • Play-Based Functional Activities – Engaging, fun activities that help children regain coordination and motor skills.

We also provide home exercise programs and guidance for parents to ensure continued progress between therapy sessions.


Why Choose Twin Hearts Physical Therapy for Post-Surgery Rehabilitation?

At Twin Hearts PT, we are committed to providing exceptional care to help your child recover after surgery. Families choose us because:

  • Specialized Pediatric Expertise: Our therapists specialize in post-operative rehabilitation and have extensive experience in pediatric physical therapy.

  • Individualized Treatment Plans: Every child receives a customized therapy plan tailored to their recovery needs.

  • Family-Centered Approach: We empower parents with education and home care strategies to support their child’s progress.

  • Convenient Location & Flexible Scheduling: Serving families in Glenpool, Bixby, Tulsa, Jenks, Mounds, Kiefer, and surrounding areas.

Our compassionate and dedicated team ensures that every child receives the highest quality care throughout their recovery journey.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Pediatric Post-Surgery Physical Therapy

  • Recovery timelines vary depending on the type of surgery. Physical therapy can help speed up the process and prevent complications.

  • If your child is experiencing stiffness, weakness, or delayed mobility after surgery, physical therapy can help restore function and confidence.

  • Therapy may include stretching, strengthening, gait retraining, and play-based activities designed to promote safe recovery.

  • Return to normal activities depends on the type of surgery and progress made during therapy. Your physical therapist will provide guidance on safe timelines.

  • Our therapists use gentle, child-friendly techniques to minimize discomfort and make therapy sessions engaging and fun.

Schedule a Consultation for Post-Surgery Recovery Today! Help your child regain strength and confidence after surgery.

If your child is recovering from surgery and needs help regaining strength and mobility, Twin Hearts Physical Therapy is here to support their healing journey. Our expert pediatric therapists provide personalized care to ensure safe and effective recovery.