Don't Leave Your Recovery to Chance

Expert post-surgical rehab that follows evidence-based protocols and gets you back to full function—not just “good enough.”

The Stakes Are High

Surgery Was the Easy Part. Recovery Is Where It Gets Real.

You’ve had your surgery, and now the real work begins. But you’re facing fear of re-injury, uncertainty about what you should do at each phase, and concern that you’ll never regain full function.

The Risk

Poor post-surgical rehab can lead to complications, permanent stiffness, and prolonged recovery.

The Decision

The decisions you make in the first few months determine whether you return to full function or live with limitations.

Our Approach

Optimizing Your Recovery

We specialize in getting people back to full function—whether you’re an athlete returning to competition or an active adult who wants to move without limitations.

Protocol-Based Care

We follow evidence-based surgical protocols while tailoring treatment to your specific procedure, surgeon’s guidelines, and personal goals.

One-on-One Expert Attention

You work directly with your physical therapist every session—skilled, hands-on care focused entirely on your recovery.

Progressive Rehabilitation

We guide you through each phase of healing—from protecting your repair to restoring motion, building strength, and returning to full activity.

Performance-Based Philosophy

Our goal isn’t just “healed”—it’s “stronger than before.” We use progressive loading to ensure you return with confidence.

Advanced Methods

Cutting-Edge Recovery Tech

Muscle Biofeedback

After surgery, muscles often "shut down" (arthrogenic muscle inhibition). EMG biofeedback retrains your brain-muscle connection, enabling inhibited muscles to activate again.

Blood Flow Restriction (BFR)

Build muscle strength using only 20-30% of your maximum capacity—ideal for early-stage rehab when heavy loading could damage your repair.

Return-to-Sport Testing

Objective testing (strength assessments, hop testing, movement analysis) ensures you're truly ready before clearance.

Surgeries We Specialize In

Knee

ACL reconstruction, Meniscus repair, Total knee replacement, Patellar tendon repair

Shoulder

Rotator cuff repair, Labral repair, Total shoulder replacement

Hip

Total hip replacement, Hip arthroscopy, Labral repair

Spine & Other

Fusion, Discectomy, Achilles Repair, Fracture Repair, Tommy John surgery

The Recovery Journey

Protection & Early Mobility

Weeks 0-2

We understand your pain history and goals, then perform thorough movement assessment using advanced technology. Hands-on manual therapy and targeted exercises reduce pain while we begin strengthening your core.

Restore Range of Motion

Weeks 2-6

Progressively restore motion using manual therapy and targeted exercises, respecting tissue-healing timelines.

Strength & Stability

Weeks 6-12

Progressive strengthening using resistance training and neuromuscular control drills to rebuild strength around your surgical site.

Functional Training

Weeks 12-16+

Functional movements that mirror real-world activities. Training becomes dynamic and sport- or activity-specific.

Return to Activity

Ongoing

Objective testing ensures you meet strength and functional benchmarks. You leave with maintenance programming.

Note: Timelines vary based on procedure, individual healing, and surgeon protocols.

Why Choose Salinas

Surgical Expertise
We specialize in orthopedic post-operative care and stay current with the latest surgical protocols.
One-on-One Care
Direct, hands-on treatment from your physical therapist every session.
Surgeon Communication
We work collaboratively with your surgeon to ensure seamless care.

Your First Visit

1. Evaluation: We’ll evaluate your surgical report, symptoms, and healing status.

2. The Plan: We’ll create a customized treatment plan based on your surgery and goals.

3. Action: You’ll leave with exercises to accelerate progress and answers to all your questions.

Real Results

★★★★★

“I have known and referred patients to Ruben Salinas Physical Therapy for over 15 years. Ruben is a master physical therapist and the type of therapist I would want to treat my own family members.

Ruben is adept at treating athletes of all ages and returning them to their desired level of play.”

Mike Shepard, MD

Orthopedic Surgeon, Team physician for USA men's and women's volleyball, UC Irvine

Frequently Asked Questions

When should I start physical therapy?

It depends on your procedure. Knee replacements often start within days; rotator cuff repairs may wait weeks. We coordinate with your surgeon.

How long will rehab take?

Simple procedures may take 6-8 weeks, while complex surgeries (ACL repairs) often require 4-6 months.

Will PT be painful?

Some discomfort is normal, but you should never experience sharp, severe pain. We balance progress with healing.

Can I return to sports?

Many athletes successfully return to sport. The key is structured, progressive rehab that prepares your body for sport-specific demands.

Insurance Coverage

We accept all major PPO insurance plans, Medicare, and Workers’ Compensation. Elite-level sports injury care shouldn’t be reserved for professional athletes alone.

All Major PPO Plans

Medicare

Workers' Comp

* We do not accept HMO plans at this time.

Start Your Recovery Journey Right

Surgery was your first step toward getting your life back. Now it’s time to optimize your recovery. Whether you’re days post-op or weeks in, we’re here to help.