If your doctor has suggested surgery, it may seem like a big step to take. Being ready for it as best as possible may help you to feel more relaxed and confident, understanding and engaging in the ways you may be able to prepare and recover. Subsequently, physiotherapy may play a pivotal role during this time.
Physiotherapists are trained and experienced in supporting patients before and after various surgical procedures. We aim to work with you, in collaboration with your medical team where appropriate, to help your body deal with the effects of surgery. This may mean a more positive journey and we will be there for you every step of the way.
If you are heading into surgery, one of our physios in Rosanna can aim to identify whether physiotherapy may be a suitable option for you pre- and post-surgery. Please read on to learn more and contact us if you have any questions.
The Role of Physiotherapists in Pre- and Post-Surgery Recovery
Physiotherapists aim to support patients with a variety of concerns, from injuries and joint disorders to urinary incontinence and migraines.
As healthcare professionals who are extensively qualified, you may wonder: ‘Are physiotherapists doctors?’ The answer is that physiotherapists are allied health professionals. This means they have in-depth experience in providing comprehensive services. They often work alongside other medical and healthcare professionals in an effort to deliver holistic preventative care, education, and intervention.
When this experience and knowledge is applied to the context of surgical patients, physiotherapists have the potential to support their patients before and after procedures. Your physiotherapist may develop a program that may include options such as:
- Prescription of exercises and stretches
- Manual therapy, such as mobilisation, manipulation, and massage
- Education and lifestyle modification
- Assistive aids
Pre-Operative Physiotherapy
If you are aware of your need for surgery ahead of time, physiotherapy may be useful. Please consult your doctor before undertaking physiotherapy treatment to clarify that it is suitable.
Pre-operative physiotherapy may involve some of the following factors, depending on your needs and goals:
1. Managing Pain and Inflammation
Pain may be a significant reason why you are undergoing surgery. Your physiotherapist will likely assess you and aim to identify strategies that may assist in reducing or managing your pain and related inflammation. This may help with your functionality and comfort while you wait for surgery.
Physiotherapy before surgery may also involve learning and preparing for exercises and strategies to undertake during recovery.
2. Maintaining or Improving Strength, Movement, and Fitness
Entering surgery with optimal health and fitness may support better outcomes. Subsequently, working with a physio to target specific and relevant areas may help your body to deal with your surgical procedure. This may assist with factors such as reducing the effects or risk of muscle loss, lack of movement, and infection.
3. Maximising Stability and Balance and Reducing Falls Risks
Dealing with any symptoms your related condition or injury may be causing may increase your risk of falling, which may lead to further issues. Physiotherapy may involve exercises, strategies, and education to potentially help minimise this risk.
These physiotherapy goals can be important to begin before surgery to optimise potential benefits, and to continue after surgery when symptoms such as pain and stiffness may increase the risk of falls. This is something your physio will work with you on during recovery.
Post-Operative Physiotherapy
Undertaking physiotherapy after surgery involves a focus on restoring and improving your functionality and quality of life. It is important you and your physio understand your doctor’s recommendations before undertaking a physio program.
Post-surgical physiotherapy may involve some of the following areas, depending on your needs and goals:
1. Pain Management
A range of physiotherapy approaches may assist in reducing or managing pain as you heal. Your physio may allocate relevant exercise and therapy interventions to support you.
2. Optimising Mobility
It can be tempting to reduce movement after surgery due to discomfort or reduced functionality. However, in the case of most post-surgical recoveries, movement is key to recovery.
Depending on your requirements and medical recommendations, this may involve options such as slow and gentle personalised movements with gradual increases to strength and fitness exercises.
When recovering from surgery, it is important to keep in mind the risk of muscle loss, stiffness, and blood clots. Gentle movement may be paramount in reducing the possibility of these occurring alongside optimising your recovery and overall health.
3. Maximising Healing
Undertaking physiotherapy may help to improve your recovery in terms of ability, time, complications, and outcomes.
Physiotherapy may also assist in reducing the risk of excessive scar tissue or may help to manage this if it occurs. This may be important as scar tissue has the potential to result in discomfort and limit mobility and range of motion.
Time Frames for Surgical Physiotherapy
If you are considering beginning physiotherapy before a surgical procedure, we recommend consulting with us as early as possible. At least several weeks prior is ideal. If this is not possible, we can still assess you and determine how we may be able to deliver the most suitable support possible.
You may be able to begin post-operative physio within days of your procedure, depending on the type of surgery and your personal situation. You may only require post-operative physiotherapy briefly, or you may benefit from long-term treatment. Your physio will discuss this with you and provide regular updates.
Seek Professional Support Pre- and Post-Surgery
If you are considering surgery, or have recently undergone surgery, our physiotherapists are eager to support you. Please contact us today to organise an appointment and ask any questions you may have. We look forward to helping you towards the best outcomes possible.
