PREHABILITATION: PREPARING FOR SURGERY

Preparing for Orthopaedic Surgery

At Total Physiocare, we believe the best surgical outcomes start before you enter the operating theatre. Taking time to improve your strength, mobility, and overall physical condition where appropriate before surgery can play an important role in your recovery after a wide range of orthopaedic procedures.

Why Preparing Before Surgery Matters

Undergoing orthopaedic surgery is a major procedure, and your recovery is often influenced by your physical condition beforehand. Being as strong and mobile as possible prior to surgery can help support a smoother rehabilitation process and better overall outcomes.

Benefits of Preparing Before Surgery

  • Smoother Recovery
    Improving your strength and mobility before surgery can make rehabilitation afterwards more efficient and manageable. By starting from a higher level of function, the gap between your post-operative ability and your end goals is smaller.

  • Reduced Pain & Complications
    Improving physical conditioning before surgery may help manage discomfort and reduce the risk of post-operative complications.

  • Better Surgical Outcomes
    Patients who stay active and prepare physically for surgery often return to daily activities sooner and achieve improved functional outcomes.

  • Increased Confidence
    Understanding what to expect before and after surgery can help reduce anxiety and improve confidence throughout the recovery journey.

How Physiotherapy Can Help Before Surgery

Physiotherapy prior to surgery may focus on:

  • Improving strength globally and around the affected area

  • Maintaining joint mobility and flexibility

  • Education about post-operative recovery, post-operative restrictions and expectations

  • Guidance on safe movement strategies for daily tasks such as walking, stairs, and transfers

This can be done under guided supervision in the clinic, as well as prescription of exercises safe to do independently!

Preparation is tailored to the individual, the type of surgery, and your current level of function and mobility.

Who is Appropriate for Prehab?

Preparing physically before surgery can benefit most people undergoing many types of orthopaedic procedures, including but not limited to:

  • Total hip replacement

  • Total knee replacement

  • Shoulder surgery or replacement

  • Spinal surgery

Consulting with a physiotherapist can provide an outline for appropriate prehabilitation measures for you, as every individual is different despite being in line for the same orthopaedic surgery. There is no cookie cutter prehab or rehab!

Whether your surgery is already booked or you are still considering your options, taking steps to optimise your physical health beforehand may make a meaningful difference.

Set Yourself Up for Success

Surgery is only one part of the recovery journey. The work done beforehand can have a significant impact on how you recover afterward. At Total Physiocare, our experienced physiotherapists are here to support you through every stage of the process, helping you feel stronger, more confident, and better prepared for surgery and recovery.

Book a consultation with Total Physiocare to learn how we can help you prepare for your upcoming surgery.

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