Pre and Post-Surgery

How can our physiotherapists help?

Pre- and post-surgery physiotherapy, often referred to as prehabilitation and rehabilitation, are crucial components of comprehensive surgical care. Pre-surgery physiotherapy aims to optimise physical function before an operation, while post-surgery physiotherapy focuses on restoring function and facilitating recovery after the procedure.

Symptoms, Treatments and Approach

How Physiotherapy Helps Pre-Surgery

Pre-Surgery (Prehabilitation):

  • Physiotherapy helps improve strength, flexibility, and cardiovascular fitness, preparing the body for the stress of surgery.

  • It educates patients on post-operative exercises and mobility strategies, promoting a smoother recovery.

  • It can reduce post-operative complications and shorten hospital stays.

Physiotherapy Treatments for Pre-Surgery:

  • Targeted strengthening exercises to improve muscle function.

  • Flexibility and stretching exercises to maintain joint mobility.

  • Cardiovascular conditioning to enhance endurance.

  • Education on post-operative exercises and mobility.

Physiotherapy Treatments for Post-Surgery

Post-Surgery (Rehabilitation):

  • Physiotherapy helps reduce pain, swelling, and stiffness following surgery.

  • It restores range of motion, strength, and function, enabling patients to return to their daily activities.

  • It prevents complications such as blood clots, muscle atrophy, and joint contractures.

Physiotherapy Treatments for Post-Surgery:

  • Pain management techniques, including manual therapy and modalities like ultrasound or TENS.

  • Range of motion exercises to restore joint mobility.

  • Strengthening exercises to rebuild muscle strength.

  • Gait training to improve walking and balance.

  • Functional exercises to improve daily living skills.

  • Scar tissue management.

  • Oedema management.

  • Education on home exercises and activity modifications.

By providing tailored pre- and post-surgery physiotherapy, healthcare professionals help patients achieve optimal outcomes, minimise complications, and return to their normal lives as quickly and safely as possible.