Pre/Post Operative Physiotherapy
Why should I have physiotherapy before my operation?
Having physiotherapy input prior to any operation is also a useful idea as this can allow you to prepare and strengthen your body before the surgery. Patients who follow a tailored ‘Pre-habilitation’ plan can often see improved recovery outcomes post surgery.
Pain and swelling are inevitable after an operation, so being able to begin practicing some exercises you may be doing post-operatively before your operation is really helpful as you can start to understand them and how they should feel before these symptoms make this harder.
It can also help prepare you mentally for the surgery as the physiotherapist will be able to answer any questions that come to mind which helps ease any anxiety.
Why do I need Post-Operative Physiotherapy Rehabilitation?
Post-operative physiotherapy rehabilitation is a critical aspect of recovery following surgery.
It is designed to restore function, minimise pain, prevent complications, and enhance overall recovery. This will ensure you optimise your recovery in order to get back to doing the activities you want to do as safely and successfully as possible.
The type and intensity of rehabilitation vary depending on the nature of the surgery, your pre-operative condition, and your individual goals. For example, following an ACL reconstruction there are very specific guidelines to ensure the surgery is a success and having guidance from a professional will help you through this process.
Often people are surprised at the surgery not being the “quick-fix” they assumed it would be, and a physiotherapist will help you through this period to optimise your recovery and guide you through and difficulties that you may have not been expecting.
Post-Operative Physiotherapy objectives:
Here in our Bath physiotherapy clinic our primary goals of post-operative physiotherapy include:
Restoring Mobility: Surgery can result in decreased range of motion in the affected area. Physiotherapy helps regain this mobility through targeted exercises.
Reducing Pain and Swelling: Physiotherapy techniques, including manual therapy, ice application, and specific exercises, help reduce post-surgical pain and inflammation.
Preventing Complications: Early mobilisation and breathing exercises help prevent complications such as blood clots, pneumonia, or muscle atrophy.
Rebuilding Strength: Muscle strength is often lost during the recovery period, but could also have been lost prior to the surgery depending on the injury or pain you were experiencing. Strengthening exercises are essential to regain muscle function and help you return to your hobbies or sports.
Improving Function: Ultimately, the goal is to return the patient back to their pre-operative level of function, or better.
We approach each surgery individually and our physiotherapist Rachael will create a tailor made plan for you, getting you safely back to the activity you enjoy.
“I began treatment whilst waiting for a full hip replacement at the time I was feeling very low & in constant pain. The treatment enabled me to feel more flexible & mobile, getting back to activities with less pain.
My surgeon couldn’t believe how mobile I was right up to the day of my surgery!
Post surgery treatment and advice has been brilliant and I am not completely back to normal.”
Karon N
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