By: Julia Gleasman, SPT
What is Post-Surgery Wound Care?
Many orthopedic procedures require the surgeon to make an incision through the skin to access the involved tissue. The size and location of the incisions will vary depending on the type of surgery. The closure of the incision could include methods such as staples, sutures or adhesives. These closures are often reinforced with a bandage to keep the wound dry and clean to provide an optimal healing environment. After receiving surgery, it is important to monitor the incision site closely to ensure proper healing and prevent infection and other complications.
Signs of Infection
It is important to ensure that your wound is healing well, and is not showing signs of infection. Some common signs and symptoms of infection include:
- White/Yellow discharge leaking from the wound site
- Foul odor from the wound
- Redness that expands beyond the border of the wound site
- Fever
- Warmth at the site of the incision
How to Care for a Post-Surgical Wound
- Make sure to wash your hands prior to and after touching the wound.
- Avoid motions that could cause excess stretch on the wound as it is healing. This could include working out or activities of daily living that cause excess tension on the incision.
- Keep the incision site dry and do not bathe until approved by your doctor.
- Do not remove the sutures until done so by a medical professional or they dissolve.
- Follow all of the doctor’s instructions for proper post-surgical wound care.
- Check the wound daily for signs and symptoms of an infection which are listed above.
The Role of Physical Therapy in Post-Surgical Wound Care
Physical therapy can help promote strength and range of motion, and decrease pain after surgery. Going to physical therapy can also play a vital role in promoting blood flow through movement. This increase in circulation helps deliver essential nutrients and oxygen to the healing tissue. By working with a physical therapist following surgery, it can actually help increase the healing process and decrease the possible risk of infection.
Post-Surgical Physical Therapy in Queensbury & Saratoga, NY
If you’ve recently had surgery, or have a surgical procedure scheduled in the coming weeks, contact Capital Area Physical Therapy about scheduling your first post-op appointment. Our physical therapists will work with you to reduce any post-operative pain, speed recovery time, and minimize the risk of infection and the development of scar tissue. To schedule an appointment for post-surgical physcial therapy in Queensbury, Saratoga Springs, Malta or Delmar, call Capital Area Physcial Therapy at (518) 289-5242.
References
1. Guo S, Dipietro LA. Factors affecting wound healing. J Dent Res. 2010;89(3):219-229. doi:10.1177/0022034509359125
2. Professional CC medical. How to care for an incision after surgery. Cleveland Clinic. June 30, 2025. Accessed July 8, 2025. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/15709-incision-care.
