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Pre-Surgical Rehabilitation in Edmonton

Surgery can be a significant physical challenge, and preparing the body beforehand can support recovery. Pre-surgical rehabilitation, or “prehab,” focuses on improving strength, mobility, and endurance before a procedure to help optimize post-surgical healing. Our clinic in Edmonton provides physiotherapy for pre-surgical rehabilitation, helping individuals prepare for surgery by strengthening muscles, improving flexibility, and learning movement strategies.

Importance of Pre-Surgical Rehabilitation

Engaging in physiotherapy before surgery may help improve overall function, making it easier to regain mobility after the procedure. Some of the benefits include:

• Improved muscle strength to support the affected area
• Better joint flexibility to reduce stiffness post-surgery
• Enhanced circulation to promote healing and reduce swelling
• Increased endurance to assist with mobility during recovery
• Familiarity with exercises and movement techniques that will be used after surgery

For individuals with chronic conditions such as arthritis, pre-surgical rehabilitation can also help manage discomfort before surgery. Strengthening the surrounding muscles and improving posture can support joint function and help with movement efficiency.

Surgeries That Benefit from Pre-Surgical Rehabilitation

Physiotherapy before surgery is beneficial for a wide range of procedures, particularly those that affect mobility and strength. Some common surgeries that require pre-surgical rehabilitation include:

Orthopedic Surgeries

• Knee or hip replacement
• ACL or meniscus repair
• Shoulder surgery, including rotator cuff repair
• Spinal surgery, including discectomy or fusion

Abdominal and Pelvic Surgeries

• Hernia repair
• C-section or hysterectomy
• Prostate surgery
• Other gynecological or urological procedures

Other Surgical Procedures

• Fracture repair
• Amputation preparation
• Cancer-related surgeries that impact mobility

What to Expect in Pre-Surgical Rehabilitation

A structured physiotherapy program before surgery aims to strengthen the body, improve movement, and prepare for post-surgical rehabilitation. The specific exercises and techniques used will depend on the type of surgery and individual needs.

Strength and Stability Training

Strengthening exercises target muscles surrounding the surgical area to provide better support during recovery. These exercises may focus on the core, legs, or upper body, depending on the procedure. Improving stability before surgery can help prevent balance issues and reduce the risk of compensatory movement patterns.

Flexibility and Range of Motion Exercises

Stretching exercises help maintain flexibility, reducing stiffness that may develop after surgery. Joint mobilization techniques can also help improve range of motion, making post-operative movement more manageable.

Balance and Coordination Training

For procedures affecting the lower body, such as knee or hip replacements, balance training can help individuals regain mobility more effectively after surgery. This may involve weight-shifting exercises, stability drills, and functional movement training.

Pain and Swelling Management Strategies

Techniques such as manual therapy, postural adjustments, and controlled movements may be included to help manage pre-surgical discomfort. Learning these techniques before surgery can make them easier to apply during recovery.

Breathing and Circulation Exercises

Breathing exercises can support lung function and circulation, which may be beneficial for individuals undergoing chest or abdominal surgery. Circulation-focused movements, such as gentle leg and ankle exercises, can help reduce the risk of blood clots.

Education on Post-Surgical Recovery

Physiotherapy sessions may include instructions on post-operative exercises, mobility aids, and movement strategies. Learning how to use crutches, walkers, or other assistive devices before surgery can make transitioning after the procedure easier.

Timing of Pre-Surgical Rehabilitation

The ideal time to start physiotherapy before surgery depends on the procedure and individual health. In most cases, pre-surgical rehabilitation begins weeks before the surgery to allow enough time for strength and mobility improvements. However, even a few sessions before the procedure can provide benefits. Consulting a physiotherapist can help create a structured approach based on individual needs and recovery goals.

Differences Between Pre-Surgical and Post-Surgical Rehabilitation

While post-surgical rehabilitation focuses on regaining mobility after surgery, pre-surgical rehabilitation aims to optimize physical condition beforehand. The combination of both can help improve overall recovery by strengthening muscles, improving movement, and reducing post-surgical complications. Individuals who engage in pre-surgical physiotherapy may experience faster progress when transitioning into post-surgical rehabilitation.

Who Can Benefit from Pre-Surgical Rehabilitation?

Anyone preparing for surgery that affects mobility, strength, or function may benefit from physiotherapy. This includes individuals undergoing joint replacements, tendon or ligament repairs, spinal procedures, and other surgeries that impact movement. Pre-surgical rehabilitation can be particularly helpful for those with existing mobility limitations or underlying conditions that may affect recovery.

Pre-Surgical Rehabilitation Support in Edmonton

Our clinic in Edmonton provides physiotherapy for individuals preparing for surgery. Whether the procedure involves the joints, spine, or other areas, we are here to help improve strength, mobility, and overall physical readiness.

If you are preparing for surgery and want to improve your physical condition before the procedure, contact us today to book an appointment.