What is Pre-Surgery Therapy?

Pre-surgery physical therapy, also known as prehabilitation or prehab, is a proactive approach to preparing patients for surgery through targeted physical exercises and education. The goal is to optimize the patient’s physical condition before undergoing an operation, thereby enhancing the outcomes and reducing recovery time post-surgery.

Benefits of Pre-Surgery Therapy

• Improved Surgical Outcomes: Enhanced physical conditioning leads to better surgical outcomes, including fewer complications and quicker recovery times.
• Faster Recovery: Patients who engage in prehab typically experience faster recovery and return to normal activities more quickly.
• Reduced Post-Surgical Complications: Prehab can lower the risk of complications such as infections, blood clots, and respiratory issues by improving overall health and fitness.
• Enhanced Strength and Flexibility: Prehab helps build muscle strength and flexibility, making it easier for patients to regain function after surgery.
• Better Pain Management: Familiarity with pain management techniques before surgery can help patients cope more effectively with post-operative pain.
• Increased Confidence and Mental Preparation: Education and training provided during prehab help reduce anxiety and increase confidence about the surgical process and recovery.
• Maintenance of Muscle Mass: Exercises help maintain muscle mass and prevent atrophy, which can occur during periods of inactivity post-surgery.
• Optimized Overall Health: Improved cardiovascular fitness and immune function contribute to overall better health and aid in recovery.

Examples of Surgeries Where Pre-Surgery Physical Therapy is Beneficial

• Orthopedic Surgeries: Such as knee replacement, hip replacement, and rotator cuff repair.
• Cardiac Surgeries: Including heart bypass surgery and valve replacement.
  
• Abdominal Surgeries: These include hernia repair and bariatric surgery.
• Spinal Surgeries: Including spinal fusion and laminectomy.

Pre-surgery physical therapy is a comprehensive approach designed to prepare patients physically and mentally for surgery, ensuring they are in the best possible condition to face the demands of surgery and recovery.