• I've been recommended for neck/back surgery, but I'd like to avoid it if at all possible...Can this program improve my chances?

Yes: A research study published in January, 1999 in Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation showed that 35 of 38 patients recommended for spinal surgery were able to forego surgery after MedX rehabilitation. Most orthopedic surgeons recommend trying all conservative treatments before undergoing spinal surgery, and some won't even consider surgery until their patients have exhausted all conservative care.

Regardless of your injury or condition, our primary focus at PDR is on treating the de-conditioning syndrome, or muscle weakness caused by months or years of inactivity, which is a normal response to tissue damage. To break the pain cycle and reverse the de-conditioning syndrome, it is important to gradually return to activity. Prolonged rest will promote even more stiffness and pain. Exercise breaks the pain cycle by increasing blood flow and providing nutrition to the joints so they may heal. Our program aims to reverse the de-conditioning syndrome, break the pain cycle, and return you to your normal daily activities with increased strength and stability.

•  I've had neck/back surgery, but I still have pain. Am I still a good candidate for rehab?

With the right precautions, absolutely. Oftentimes, pain after surgery is the result of scar tissue, inactivity and weak muscles vs. the surgical site itself. This is where our MedX rehab program comes in. Increasing range of motion (breaking down scar tissue), increasing spinal strength in an isolated manner, and increasing your over-all activity level are what our MedX program does best!

Due to an increase in the number of post-surgical patients being referred to us, our physicians have developed a post-surgical protocol to ensure optimal safety with these patients. These modified protocols break down your therapy program into three distinct phases, depending on the type of surgery you had and how long ago. Your PDR physician will determine which phase is right for you. Each phase has specific precautions and exercise recommendations that are closely adhered to during your rehab program. At PDR, we've had several years of experience using this specific protocol, and have found it to be both a safe and effective treatment plan for our post-surgical patients.