Physical Therapy After a Hospital Stay
Coming home from the hospital or a rehab facility is a relief, but many people feel weaker and less steady than before. Even a few days in bed can cost strength and balance. In-home physical therapy helps you rebuild your strength, get back to your routine safely and lower your risk of a fall or another hospital stay.
Who we help
- People home after pneumonia, infection or other illness
- People home after heart or lung problems
- People home after surgery
- People home from a rehab or nursing facility
- People who became weak after a long time in bed
- People who had a fall that led to a hospital visit
Signs you could use therapy after a hospital stay
- You tire out quickly doing normal tasks
- Getting out of bed or a chair is harder than before
- You feel unsteady or need to hold onto furniture
- Stairs feel difficult or unsafe
- You're walking less than you used to
- You're nervous about being home on your own
Why strength drops so quickly
Illness and bed rest take a real toll. Muscles weaken quickly when they aren't used, and older adults can lose a noticeable amount of leg strength during a hospital stay. That weakness, along with fatigue and new medications, is part of why the weeks after going home carry a higher risk of falls. The good news is that strength and endurance can come back with the right exercise.
What treatment may include
- Leg and core strengthening
- Endurance building, at a safe pace
- Practice getting in and out of bed, chairs and the car
- Walking and stair training
- Balance training and fall prevention
- Walker or cane fitting and a home safety check
What to expect
- Evaluation at home. We check your strength, balance, walking and how you're managing daily tasks.
- A safe plan. Goals that fit your energy level and your doctor's instructions.
- Steady progress. Regular visits that build your strength until you're back to your routine.
Frequently asked questions
When should therapy start after I get home?
Ideally soon after you're home, once your doctor agrees. The first weeks are when strength can be regained fastest and when the risk of falls is highest.
I had home health therapy. Can I continue with you?
Yes. Many people continue with outpatient therapy at home after their home health services end. Call us and we'll explain how it works with your insurance.
What if I get tired easily?
That's expected after an illness. We keep activity at a level that's safe for you and increase it gradually.
Can a family member be there?
Yes. Family members and caregivers are welcome and can learn how to help safely.
Related: fall prevention and equipment evaluations.
Medicare Part B accepted, plus Aetna Medicare, Independence Blue Cross and Keystone 65. We serve Northeast Philadelphia, Bucks County and Montgomery County.