In the realm of medical interventions, surgery often stands as a definitive solution to various health issues, ranging from joint replacements to ligament repairs. However, what's sometimes overlooked is the significant role prehabilitation plays in the overall success of surgical outcomes. Prehabilitation, focuses on improving functional capacity, strength and mobility prior to surgery which reduces the risk of complications and accelerates return to normal activities.
The Benefits of Prehabilitation?
1. Enhanced Surgical Outcomes:
Prehabilitation can improve a patient's physical function, muscle strength, and range of motion, which are crucial factors in determining surgical success. Studies have shown that patients who undergo prehabilitation experience shorter hospital stays and reduced post-operative pain compared to those who do not.
2. Faster Recovery:
By strengthening the body and optimizing overall health before surgery, individuals who undergo prehabilitation typically regain their regain function and mobility more quickly after surgery. This will enable them to return to their daily activities and work sooner.
3. Lower Risk of Complications:
Those who undergo prehabilitation are likely to experience less complications after surgery compared to those who don’t. This means a shorter hospital stay, and a quicker return to normal physical function.
What can you expect with Physiotherapy?
1. Individualized Exercise Prescription:
Physiotherapists assess each patient's specific needs and develop personalized exercise programs to address areas of weakness, stiffness, or dysfunction. These exercises focus on improving strength, flexibility, balance, and endurance, targeting muscle groups that are vital for supporting the surgical site and facilitating recovery.
2. Education and Empowerment:
Physiotherapists educate patients about the upcoming surgery, potential risks, and what to expect during the recovery process. This helps to alleviate any pre-operative stress, and promotes adherence to prehabilitation protocols, and post-surgical rehabilitation.
3. Monitoring Progress and Adjusting Interventions:
Throughout the prehabilitation period, physiotherapists closely monitor patients' progress, adjusting their exercise programs and interventions as needed to ensure optimal preparation for surgery. Regular assessments and follow-ups allow for early interventions to address any barriers.
Want to get started on your prehabilitation journey? Don’t hesitate to contact one of our clinics to inquire about how you can get started with a physiotherapist!
Article written by Registered Physiotherapist, Zamir Walji. With his extensive experience, Zamir approaches your individual case with dedication and focuses on getting to the root of the issue. Zamir uses manual therapy, personalized exercise programs and education to optimize your function and ultimately get you back to doing the activities you love most. Zamir believes that each patient should leave their session having a clear understanding of the next steps to achieve their goals.
Click here to learn more about Zamir or to book a physiotherapy appointment with him at Athlete's Care York Mills & Leslie
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