Getting surgery will always be a nerve-wracking undertaking for most people. The post-operative fundamentals that follow, such as recovery downtime and lifestyle changes, can seem daunting but necessary. Apart from these two, physiotherapy is another key component of the rehabilitation process, regardless of the nature and target of the surgical procedure.
Benefits of working with a physiotherapist
Post-surgical physiotherapy is a tailored exercise and manual therapy programme prescribed by a certified physiotherapist. It is developed after they review several essential factors, such as the patient’s body type and physical fitness, the kind of surgery they had, their tissue conditions, and so on. The collaborative aspect of this rehab plan means it is vital for patients to evaluate the qualifications of the physiotherapist and if they are comfortable working with them in reaching their therapy goals.
Despite its inherent challenges, post-operative rehab brings huge payoffs towards a successful recovery with improved muscular strength, function, and range of motion. It is natural to be cautious about moving the surgical area of your body but doing so can lead to improved recovery if done right. From lower back pain treatments to post-surgery recovery, physiotherapy can help to relieve various types of pain.
The primary objective of post-surgery recovery is to return to your mobile as soon as it is physically safe to do so for a better healing process. It is vital to be patient when starting your rehabilitation journey and keep in mind the things you are allowed and forbidden to do at each stage of the recovery process. A physiotherapist can help you best navigate this process through graded exposure, manual therapy, and targeted physiotherapy exercises to relieve shoulder pain or issues in any other areas. Moreover, your physiotherapy plan and frequency can always be revised to better match your recovery progress and status. For pain involving the knee, you may consider seeing a knee pain doctor in Singapore for treatment or consultation.
The basics of post-surgical physiotherapy
Post-surgical physiotherapy can start as soon as possible after getting approval from the surgeon. This process can help prevent side effects such as reduced blood flow to the surgical area and muscle atrophy or weakening if they remain unused for long periods.
Apart from the sessions at the clinic, your physiotherapist will also prescribe physiotherapy exercises you can do at home and teach you the proper techniques to ensure you perform them without causing injury. The main benefits of physiotherapy include the following:
1. Reduced pain and swelling
The right type of rehab can mitigate the unpreventable localised pain and swelling in the affected area following surgery.
2. Improved circulation
Basic exercises and massages enable faster healing and impede swelling post-surgery, improving circulation.
3. Recover one’s usual strength
Loss of strength and reduced stamina are inevitable following surgery. The faster you can do basic movements and exercises, the faster you can recover the normal range of motion in areas that need strengthening.
Healing is a highly intricate process involving soft tissues, muscles, and bones, with physiotherapy covering an average recovery timeline of four to six months. Some cases take earlier or longer than anticipated.
Conclusion
Physiotherapy is one of the most important post-operative fundamentals that accelerates recovery after surgery. With its help, patients can get a more efficient rehabilitation process that facilitates the restoration of their usual strength, body functions, and range of motion so they can quickly get back on track with their lives.
At Pain SG, our multidisciplinary team of pain specialists in Singapore, including physiotherapists, are always ready to help you facilitate your post-surgery recovery and any pain that may arise. Apart from physiotherapy and rehabilitation, we provide pain relief solutions for neck and shoulder pain, back pain, and treatment for ankle pain in Singapore for a better quality of life.
To learn more about our services, send your queries to info@physioasia.com or call us for an appointment today.
