Transform Your Recovery With Pre- and Postoperative Physical Therapy
One of our patients, who we’ll call Michael, was a middle-aged teacher with a passion for hiking. He faced an unexpected challenge when a sharp pain in his knee turned into a persistent problem, affecting not only his favorite outdoor activities but also his ability to stand comfortably in front of his classroom.
After several consultations, an MRI revealed a torn meniscus requiring surgery. The prospect of surgery was a big concern to Michael, who had never faced such a significant medical procedure. However, his orthopedic surgeon recommended a comprehensive approach to ensure the best possible outcome: engaging in pre- and postoperative physical therapy.
The Road to Surgery: Preoperative Physical Therapy
Understanding the importance of being in optimal physical condition for the surgery, Michael was referred to Foundation Therapy for preoperative care. Our goal was to maximize his range of motion and strengthen his knee as much as possible before the surgery to aid his recovery.
Michael met with one of our physical therapists, who explained how pre-surgical physical therapy could make a significant difference in his recovery process. His therapist tailored a program focusing on building strength, improving his mobility, and getting him as prepared as possible for surgery and the recovery afterward.
Preoperative physical therapy sessions included a variety of exercises designed to enhance the stability of Michael’s knee alongside manual therapy techniques to free up restrictions, mobilize his knee, and help manage his pain.
His therapist also educated Michael about how to best prepare mentally and physically for post-surgery rehabilitation. This proactive approach helped Michael enter the surgery with a stronger knee and equipped him with the knowledge and confidence needed to face his recovery.
Navigating Recovery: Postoperative Physical Therapy
After the surgery, Michael’s journey to recovery began with postoperative physical therapy. The first few sessions focused on managing pain and reducing swelling. These are crucial steps to ensure a solid foundation for more intensive rehabilitation. His physical therapist guided Michael through the following treatments:
- Range of Motion Exercises: To gradually increase knee range of motion.
- Strengthening Exercises: Targeting the quadriceps, hamstrings, and calf muscles to support knee stability.
- Swelling and Pain Management: Using compression and elevation to reduce swelling and pain.
- Manual Therapy: Soft tissue massage and joint mobilizations improve joint function and decrease pain.
- Gait Training: To improve walking patterns and ensure proper weight distribution and knee alignment.
- Balance and Proprioception Training: Exercises that help restore balance and knee joint position are crucial for preventing re-injury.
- Functional Training: Focused on returning to daily activities and specific sports or hobbies with proper form and without pain.
One of the pivotal aspects of Michael’s postoperative care was the personalized attention he received. His therapist continuously adjusted his plan based on his progress, ensuring each exercise was challenging and achievable. This customization was crucial, as it kept Michael motivated and engaged in his recovery, even on days when progress seemed slow.
Postoperative therapy also included education on proper movement patterns to prevent future injuries and ensure the longevity of his knee’s health. Michael learned how to adjust his daily activities to protect his knee and support its healing.
The Impact of Comprehensive Physical Therapy
The benefits of Michael’s commitment to both pre-and postoperative physical therapy were clear; not only did his recovery timeline exceed expectations, but he also experienced a significant improvement in his knee’s functionality compared to before the surgery.
Michael’s dedication to his therapy and his therapist’s expertise transformed his recovery into a journey of personal growth and resilience. The knowledge he gained about injury prevention and physical wellness became integral to his daily life, influencing his return to hiking and his approach to physical activity in general.
A Return to the Trails
After his rehab ended, Michael stood at the base of his favorite hiking trail, ready to tackle it again. This moment was the culmination of hours of physical therapy, perseverance, and the unwavering support of his therapist. As he ascended the trail, each step was a testament to the importance of comprehensive physical therapy in recovery from surgery.
Michael’s experience underscores the transformative potential of pre- and postoperative physical therapy at Foundation Therapy. By engaging in targeted exercises before and after surgery, patients can accelerate their recovery and improve their overall physical function and quality of life!
Return to PT at Foundation Therapy!
Miss feeling your best? Come back to Foundation Therapy and let us help you get there—schedule your appointment today!
Celebrating National Physical Therapy Month: Why PT Matters for Your Health
Every October, we celebrate National Physical Therapy Month, a time to recognize the life-changing benefits of physical therapy. At Foundation Therapy, we are proud to serve Bridgeport, Decatur, Jacksboro, Bowie, Paradise, and surrounding communities by helping patients reduce pain, restore movement, and return to the activities they love.
Physical therapy is more than rehabilitation after an injury. It is a personalized approach to improving mobility, building strength, and addressing the root causes of pain and limitations. Whether you are dealing with back or neck pain, recovering from surgery, managing arthritis, or working to prevent sports injuries, PT can make a lasting difference. Our team uses proven techniques like manual therapy, dry needling, ergonomic training, and customized exercise programs to support patients of all ages.
National Physical Therapy Month also reminds us that PT can be a safe, cost-effective alternative to unnecessary medications or surgeries. Research shows that beginning with physical therapy often leads to better long-term outcomes, fewer complications, and reduced healthcare costs. PT empowers you with the tools and knowledge to take charge of your health.
At Foundation Therapy, our mission is to combine compassionate care with expert treatment. We see each patient as part of our community family and are dedicated to walking with you through every step of recovery. This month is the perfect time to celebrate the progress our patients have made and encourage others to take that first step toward healing.
If you or someone you know is struggling with pain, limited mobility, or a recent injury, there is no better time to see how physical therapy can help. This October, celebrate with us by making your health a priority. Every step forward is a step toward a stronger you.
October Word Scramble
dancy
nlhealeow
mkpupin
rwcrcesao
ealevs
dierc
Answer Key
candy
halloween
pumpkin
scarecrow
leaves
cider
Patient Spotlight:
“I’m back at Foundation Therapy in Bridgeport, TX, after about a 2-month break, but for a different issue. As usual, each time I have been greeted with a friendly hello and how are you. The staff of therapists are very knowledgeable and very helpful. The office staff as well are very friendly and helpful. In observing all the staff, they feel like a family that respects each other and does whatever they can to help each other. So glad I got hooked up with them. Would highly recommend them to anyone in need of physical support. THANK YOU, FOUNDATION THERAPY!”
— Sandy N.
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Seasonal Recipe:
Delicious Healthy Spinach Dip
This Delicious Healthy Spinach Dip is the perfect guilt-free snack, packed with flavor and nutrients in every bite. Enjoy it as a crowd-pleasing appetizer or a wholesome treat any time of day!
- 2 x 10 oz packages chopped spinach, frozen
- 1/2 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 large garlic cloves, minced + 1 small garlic clove, grated
- 1 medium carrot, finely grated
- 2 tbsp oil, for frying
- 2 cups Greek or regular plain yogurt, at least 2% fat
- 1/4 cup mayo
- 1 tsp salt
- Ground black pepper, to taste
Defrost spinach in a colander overnight or microwave it. Squeeze out excess water and place in a medium bowl. In a non-stick skillet over medium heat, sauté onion, 2 minced garlic cloves, and carrot in a bit of oil for about 7 minutes. Add to the spinach along with yogurt, mayo, salt, and pepper. Mix well. Grate in more garlic to taste. Chill for a few hours if possible. Serve with pretzel chips or brown rice crackers.
Staff Spotlight: Dr. Stephen Hanson, DPT
Dr. Stephen L. Hanson brings a rare combination of experience, compassion, and dedication to Foundation Therapy. Born in Bowie, Texas, and a veteran of more than a decade in the military, he has served in many roles—from a physical therapy assistant in the Air Force to leading PT clinics and deployments overseas. His life before joining Foundation Therapy gives him unique insight into treating patients with demanding physical and emotional needs.
Stephen treats a wide range of conditions—back and neck pain, shoulder, hip and knee pain, arthritis, balance issues, gait disorders, neurological conditions, sports injuries, and more. He uses evidence-based treatments such as manual therapy, dry needling, postural retraining, therapeutic exercise, and vestibular therapy to help patients regain strength, mobility, and confidence.
Outside his work, Stephen’s world is filled with faith, family, and active pursuits. He and his wife Kristi have three children—Jacob, Leah, and Evan—and it was his youngest who recently got married, bringing the family together for a joyful wedding in Pearl, Texas. Stephen took some well-deserved time to travel for the celebration, and we’re excited to share photos in this newsletter from that special weekend.
He also enjoys gardening, riding horses, hunting, training in Jiu-Jitsu, and crafting knives and bows. His military background and lifelong commitment to helping others shape the caring, high-standard PT service he delivers here in Bridgeport.
Suit Up & Say Boo!
Friday, October 31, 2025
Join us for our annual Suit Up & Say Boo on Halsell Street at 5 p.m. on October 31, 2025. Trick-or-treat with our downtown businesses in a family-friendly environment!
If you have any questions, please contact Krystal Smith at 940-683-3411
Trunk or Treat!
Tuesday, October 14, 2025
4-6pm
Join us as our staff and residents pass candy.
Spooktacular Fall Festival
Sunday, October 26, 2025
5:30-8pm
Inflatables • Cotton Candy • Popcorn
Carnival Games • Balloon Animals
Candy • Costume Contest
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Our purpose at Foundation Therapy is to leave a greater impact on the community around us. In order to achieve our goal we want to change as many lives as possible as we become a beacon of positivity in our community.
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Meet Our Team
Chris Hicks
Owner / PT
Kelli Smith
Supervising Clinician/PT
Ali Martinez
Office Manager
Sandra McDonald
Insurance Verification and Authorization Specialist
