I am asking for your help/advice.
I am a physical therapist and I underwent my own bariatric surgery in 2022. I am looking to develop a unique bariatric program that provides exercise programs and support to people undergoing rapid weight loss whether from surgery or from medication.
If you guys could answer a few questions for me it would be greatly appreciated and would help me build my practice!
1. Did you exercise before surgery? And what was your biggest challenge?
2. Would you have benefited from a preop physical therapy appointment to develop a customize strength training program that took into consideration your current limitations and orthopedic issues.
3. how were you educated on post operative activity and physical restrictions? Would you have liked a week by week guide on what activities you can return to and when?
4. Were you educated on exercises to maintain muscle mass through your first year postoperatively?
5. What kind of exercises did you do postoperatively in the first year? Did you hire a personal trainer? Join the gym? Search online?
6. Did you develop any new or worsening musculoskeletal pain as you were more mobile and your body composition changed?
7. Let me know if you have any other ideas on how having a physical therapist on your bariatric team would have benefited you both before and after surgery.
Thanks so much everyone. I may be piloting this program with a few patients. Email me if you’re interested (I’m licensed to treat in N.C.) contact@localpointpt.com