Physical Therapy for Pre- and Post-Operative Issues

Surgery is always a significant concern and can be a trauma for the body, regardless of its purpose or duration. As a result, you may experience weakness, pain, immobility, and often anxiety about your recovery, particularly regarding your ability to return to your pre-injury activity level. It’s important to note that the success of your treatment largely depends on your actions both before the procedure and during the post-operative recovery period.

Professional studies and evaluations increasingly support the benefits of perioperative rehabilitation. It strengthens the core, supports muscle function, and enhances overall mobility, especially in the affected areas. Rehabilitation improves blood circulation and aids in oxygen delivery to cells, reducing pain and accelerating the recovery process.

HELPING AVOID SURGERY & TREATING COMPLICATIONS

For many, physical therapy offers an effective alternative to invasive procedures. Our therapists specialize in Fascial Counterstrain, a gentle, non-invasive technique that addresses restrictions in the body’s connective tissue (fascia). By relieving these fascial restrictions, we can treat pain at its root and help many patients avoid surgery. This technique is also highly effective in treating post-surgical complications, promoting complete healing even in cases of chronic pain and mobility limitations. Fascial Counterstrain provides:

  • A non-invasive alternative: to address pain and dysfunction, reducing the need for surgery
  • Relief from post-surgical complications: including scar tissue-related pain and movement limitations
  • Long-lasting improvement: in overall function, preventing future injuries or flare-ups.

Our focus is on treating the underlying causes of pain and movement restrictions, helping to restore quality of life, and empowering patients to lead active, healthy lives without relying on invasive procedures.

WHY PERIOPERATIVE PHYSICAL THERAPY IS ESSENTIAL

Pre and post-surgery physical therapy is vital for optimizing patient outcomes and facilitating a smoother recovery process. Before undergoing surgery, engaging in a prehabilitation program can significantly enhance a patient’s physical condition, improving strength, flexibility, and endurance. This proactive approach helps to reduce the risk of complications during surgery and can lead to a shorter recovery time. Additionally, pre-surgery physical therapy educates patients on pain management techniques and functional movements, empowering them with the knowledge to navigate their recovery more effectively.

Following surgery, post-operative physical therapy becomes essential for rehabilitation, focusing on restoring mobility, strength, and overall function. Furthermore, physical therapists provide emotional support and encouragement throughout the recovery journey, helping to alleviate anxiety and build confidence as patients progress.

Frequently Asked Questions about Pre- and Post Operative Issues

What is perioperative physical therapy?

Perioperative physical therapy includes both pre-surgery (prehabilitation) and post-surgery rehabilitation. It prepares the body for surgery and supports recovery afterward by improving strength, mobility, and function. It plays a critical role in surgical rehabilitation and reducing complications.

Why is pre-surgery rehab important?

Pre-surgery rehab, also known as prehabilitation, helps optimize your physical condition before surgery. It strengthens key muscle groups, enhances endurance, and improves range of motion – factors significantly contributing to faster recovery after surgery. It also helps reduce the risk of complications and supports better surgical outcomes.

What are the benefits of rehab after surgery?

Post-surgery rehab focuses on restoring mobility, managing pain, rebuilding strength, and helping you regain independence in daily activities. It’s essential for surgical rehabilitation, whether you’re recovering from orthopedic, spinal, abdominal, or cardiac procedures.

Can physical therapy help me avoid surgery altogether?

Yes. In some cases, targeted physical therapy, especially using Fascial Counterstrain, can treat the root cause of pain or dysfunction, eliminating the need for surgery. If surgery is still required, rehab before surgery will still enhance your body’s ability to heal and recover.

How long after surgery should I start physical therapy?

It depends on the type of surgery and your doctor’s recommendations, but in many cases, early movement and guided therapy begin within days. Our team will customize your post-surgical rehab plan to match your recovery stage and medical needs.

What types of surgery benefit from perioperative rehab?

Perioperative rehab is beneficial for a wide range of surgeries, including:

  • Joint replacements (hip, knee, shoulder)
  • Abdominal surgeries (e.g., hernia repair, hysterectomy)
  • Spinal surgeries
  • Cardiac procedures
  • Cancer-related surgeries

Rehab before and after surgery improves surgical outcomes across these categories.

What techniques are used in surgical rehabilitation?

Our perioperative rehab program includes manual therapy, soft tissue techniques, strengthening and functional exercises, neuromuscular re-education, pain relief modalities, and scar tissue management. These methods are tailored to your specific type of surgery and recovery goals.

How do I get started with rehab before or after surgery?

Contact our clinic to schedule an evaluation. Whether you’re preparing for surgery or recovering from one, our specialized team will create a personalized rehab program to support your full recovery.

Start Your Journey to Recovery

Our experienced team is here to guide you through every step of your recovery journey, from pre-surgical preparation to post-surgical rehabilitation. We aim to deliver the highest level of care, helping you avoid unnecessary surgery when possible and heal effectively from post-surgical complications. Contact us today to learn how our specialized physical therapy services can support your path to health and well-being.