Orthopedic Physical Therapy & Fitness Testing

After orthopedic surgery and PT completion, VO₂ max testing helps return to activity:

• Assess cardiovascular fitness after surgical recovery
• Establish safe training intensity post-surgery
• Support gradual return to sport or recreation
• Identify fitness deficits from immobilization
• Track recovery progress objectively

ACL Reconstruction: Return-to-running and return-to-sport testing after 6-12 months recovery

Shoulder Surgery: Upper-body fitness assessment when cleared for activity

Hip Replacement: Post-op fitness evaluation for safe exercise progression

Knee Replacement: Cardiovascular assessment for rehabilitation support

Ankle/Foot Surgery: Alternative testing (bike) for non-weight-bearing assessment

ACL recovery typically takes 9-12 months. VO₂ max testing supports safe return:

• Cardiovascular readiness for sport demands
• Training zones for conditioning phase
• Comparison to pre-injury fitness (if available)
• Confidence building through objective data
• Sport-specific intensity guidance

Choose equipment based on surgical site and clearance:

Lower-Body Surgery: Start with bike (non-weight-bearing), progress to treadmill when cleared

Upper-Body Surgery: Treadmill or bike (depending on comfort), add rower when cleared for upper-body load

Multi-Site or Complex: Consult with your PT on appropriate modality

We coordinate with your physical therapist:

• Review PT clearance for testing
• Select appropriate testing equipment
• Provide results to your PT
• Follow activity restrictions
• Support PT's return-to-activity plan

Post-surgical immobilization causes rapid cardiovascular deconditioning:

• VO₂ max can drop 15-25% during recovery
• Testing establishes current baseline
• Sets realistic expectations for reconditioning
• Prevents "too much, too soon" mistakes
• Tracks fitness restoration over time

VO₂ max testing contributes to return-to-sport decision-making:

• Cardiovascular readiness (one piece of the puzzle)
• Exercise tolerance verification
• Training intensity guidance for sport preparation
• Comparison to pre-injury or normative data

VO₂ Max Test: $250

Complete cardiovascular assessment with post-surgery/injury training zones.

Medical clearance required from your surgeon or physical therapist.

Fit Evaluations
311 Soquel Ave
Santa Cruz, CA 95062

Behind Hindquarter restaurant (second entrance off Dakota St.)

Contact:
Phone: 831-400-9227
Email: info@fitevals.com

Professional fitness testing for post-orthopedic surgery recovery and return to activity.