For many athletes in Westwood and Los Angeles, the question that weighs most heavily on their minds while preparing for cardiac surgery is, “When can I get back to my sport?” This is something patients at Dr. Maria Tehrani’s cardiac surgery practice in Westwood do not worry about because they know a full recovery plan will be available, which takes their sports needs into consideration.

The Unique Needs of Westwood’s Athletic Community

Because Westwood is the home of UCLA and its amazing athletic programs, there is a greater density of competitive athletes living in this region as opposed to other parts of Los Angeles. The area is full of active people, from college level student athletes to amateur athletes getting in shape up in the hills over Sunset Boulevard. Because of this, there is a need for more specialized cardiac care that takes into account the distinct physiological and psychological factors unique to this population.

Dr. Tehrani’s emphasis on heart health for athletes has made him the specialist of choice for many professional athletes across Los Angeles County. “Recovery expectations vary from one athlete to another,” said Dr Tehrani. “There are various means to cardiac recovery, which we take into consideration when creating our protocols.”

Common Cardiac Procedures Among Westwood Athletes

Unfortunately, even the most fit athletes may require surgery to treat certain cardiac conditions. Dr Tehrani reports the following procedures are the most common among Westwood’s athletic population:

– Repair of congenital defects: Includes atrial septal defects and patent foramen ovale, both of which may remain undiagnosed until adulthood

– Valve repair or replacement: Frequently required for patients suffering from aortic bicuspid valves or mitral valve prolapse

– Coronary artery procedures: Somewhat uncommon even in younger athletes, but still necessary at times

– Arrhythmia interventions: For athletes suffering from Wolff-Parkinson-White syndrome

The Return-to-Sport Protocol at Dr. Tehrani’s Westwood Practice

Dr. Tehrani’s comprehensive return-to-sport protocol is tailored to the residents of Westwood, making it unique and effective.

Phase 1: Immediate Post-Surgical Recovery (1-4 weeks)

For this initial phase, we focus on wound care and mobility. Full athletic activity is limited, but Dr Tehrani works with patients on:

– Walking breaks in and around the Westwood area

– Relaxation techniques aimed at restoring breathing and lung function

– Introductory exercises for flexibility and mobility

– Readiness exercises for the psychological aspect of rehabilitation

Phase 2: Cardiac Rehabilitation (1-3 months)

To begin this phase, athletes are referred to formal cardiac rehabilitation programs at affiliated sites around the UCLA Medical Center. This phase includes:

– Active training sessions with progressively higher levels of difficulty and effort.

– Recording of heart rate and blood pressure response to exercise

– Instruction on cardiac health issues pertinent to the athlete

– Counseling on diet appropriate for recovery after athletic activity

Phase 3: Sport Specific Training (3-6 months)

Dr. Tehrani’s unparalleled focus upon return-to-sport protocols in Westwood sets him apart from other physicians in the area:

– Integration with athletic trainers from various Los Angeles sports organizations

– Specific sports (running, swimming, and team sports) individual training programs.

– Comprehensive cardiac evaluation during sport specific activities.

– Counseling for competitive athletes on return-to-sport anxiety

Phase 4: Clearance and Follow-Up

Prior to clearing athletes for return, Dr. Tehrani performs extensive diagnostic testing, such as:

– Stress echocardiograms with chest ultrasound at her Westwood office

– Cardiac MRI as clinically necessary

– VO2 max exercise testing

– Rhythm strip collection during practice sessions

“Dr. Tehrani knew that going back to running was not optional for me. It was part of my life, “ Michael L., a resident of Westwood who enjoys trail running, says after having had an aortic surgery. “That approach allowed me to return to the sport I enjoy the most while having the right medical supervision.”

Tailored Treatment for Different Athletic Demographics in Westwood

Dr. Tehrani’s practice appreciates the unique characteristics of each athlete in Westwood and devises specific strategies to tackle:

– Senior athletes: Eased return protocols for Westwood’s older active population.

– Youth athletes: Sensible approaches for younger patients.

– Endurance athletes: Marathon and triathlon specific instructions for Los Angeles participants.

– Strength athletes: Special notes for those exercising in Westwood’s numerous fitness centers.

When to Consult Dr. Tehrani

Athletes in Westwood ought to seek out Dr. Tehrani’s attention, if they:

– Have a cardiac condition that has already been surgically addressed and still requires further intervention.

– Display any cardiac symptoms while involved in any physical activities.

– Have any known cardiac problems and are worried about exercising due to a family history.

– Have undergone cardiac surgery and been given caveats pertaining to resuming physical exercise and need a second opinion.

Conclusion: World-Class Cardiac Care for Westwood Athletes

Westwood and the rest of Los Angeles sports men and women who require heart surgery need post-operative care that is equally integrated with the athletic endeavors and cardiac welfare, which is difficult to attain. This is where Dr. Tehrani’s practice comes in. Maria Tehrani has established herself as the heart surgeon of choice for the active people around Westwood. She offers unparalleled surgical mastery coupled with deep knowledge of athletic needs.