We may not always realize it, but major surgeries can be a big deal and extremely daunting. Often, it leaves individuals immobilized, weakened, and sometimes even depressed. Despite the challenges of surgery, the general goal after undergoing such procedures is to make a swift and full recovery and return to normal living. Recognizing the importance of this recuperative phase, medical practitioners and patients are in increasing consensus about the pivotal role of physical therapy in post-surgical recovery.
Physiotherapy, with its focus on enhancing quality of life, amplifies an individual’s range of movement, guarding against future injuries or disabilities. This therapeutic approach is the cornerstone for swift and comprehensive post-surgical recovery, whether used with other medical treatments or as the primary modality.
MN Physiotherapy Clinic offers patient-centric, top-notch physiotherapy services. The practice offers a comprehensive suite of services that cater holistically to patients’ needs.
In this article, we’ll discuss how physiotherapy can help the healing process after major surgery.
Why Physiotherapy is Essential After Surgery
Plenty of evidence supports the benefits of physiotherapy after undergoing major surgeries. A growing body of scientific research stands as a testament to its efficacy. At the heart of a successful post-surgical recovery is movement. But physiotherapy doesn’t just restore mobility; it ensures that the interventions made during surgery heal in the best possible manner. Notably, for many, it provides a viable alternative to opioids for pain management.
The Importance of Movement After Surgery
Research conducted by the National Institutes of Health (NIH), underscore the pitfalls of inactivity post-surgery, especially among older people. Prolonged bed rest can lead to diminished muscle strength, functional decline, and reduced cardiovascular capacity. It is important to have a well-designed and closely monitored physical therapy plan to overcome these challenges.
In a safe and structured environment, physiotherapy enables patients, especially seniors, to rebuild strength, facilitating a swift return to daily activities. This not only paves the way for prolonged independence but, as per the research, could also potentially enhance longevity.
Beyond the physical realm, the benefits of physiotherapy extend to the psychological. Exercise-induced endorphin release can significantly uplift mood and well-being.
Candidates for Post-Surgery Physiotherapy
From joint replacements and ACL repairs to intricate back and heart surgeries, the scope of physical therapy is vast, catering to a diverse array of surgical interventions.
Who Stands to Gain from Post-Surgery Physiotherapy?
Receiving physiotherapy after surgery can greatly benefit a range of medical procedures, such as:
- Joint Replacement Surgery:
Following surgeries for knee, hip, or shoulder replacements, the NIH endorses intensive, personalized physical therapy under expert guidance to expedite mobility recovery.
- ACL and Meniscus Repair:
Post-surgery for the ACL knee ligament (common among athletes) and meniscal cartilage tears, physical therapy is indispensable. The research underscores accelerated healing and re-injury prevention through bolstered quadriceps and hamstring strength.
- Back Surgery:
Given the intricate nature of spinal surgeries like fusion or disc procedures, closely supervised physiotherapy is paramount. Therapists guide patients through gentle exercises, promoting blood flow and a graded return to daily tasks.
- Heart Surgery:
Post-heart attack or bypass surgeries, physiotherapy can counter cardiopulmonary issues, offering structured, low-impact exercise, thus shortening hospital stays.
- Abdominal Surgery:
Abdominal surgery can weaken the core muscles. Physiotherapists design tailor-made programs that focus on gentle core-strengthening exercises. As patients progress, these exercises increase in intensity, ensuring that core stability is regained.
- Neurological Surgery:
Physiotherapy post-neurological surgery aids in rebuilding strength, enhancing balance, improving functional mobility, managing pain, and promoting neuroplasticity for optimal recovery. It provides a structured method to tackle issues such as spasticity, changes in sensation, and breathing problems, ensuring that patients regain the highest possible level of function and quality of life.
What to Expect from Physiotherapy Post-Surgery
The initial phase of post-surgical physical therapy often entails basic exercises, progressively escalating in intensity. Trained therapists ensure patients are gently but consistently challenged, fostering optimal recovery.
Initiating physiotherapy immediately post-surgery and sustaining it post-discharge maximizes recovery outcomes. A dedicated team of physiotherapists will guide patients through targeted exercises to ensure comprehensive recovery, addressing any complications that might have arisen during hospitalization.
An array of exercises target muscle and joint recovery, potentially addressing circulation or respiratory issues acquired during hospitalization.
Additional benefits comprise:
- Efficient pain management
- Facilitation in daily task resumption
- Reinforcement of weakened muscles
- Alleviating muscle stiffness
- Returning to previous physical fitness
- Postural improvement
- Restoration of autonomy
- Alleviation of stress and anxiety
- Circulation-enhancing and range-improving mobilization exercises
- Assistance with secretions, lung volume augmentation, and infection prevention
- Expert advice on postures to enhance comfort and reduce pressure sore risks
Physiotherapy Services Available in Oshawa, Ontario
If you have any questions about the services we offer at MN Physiotherapy Clinic, our team is available to assist you. You can contact us by calling our office or scheduling an appointment online.