How Pre and Post-Operative Physiotherapy Prepares Your Body for Surgery

Introduction

Undergoing surgery is a significant event, and ensuring your body is well-prepared can make a remarkable difference in recovery and overall outcomes. Pre and post-operative physiotherapy at Malvern Physiotherapy Clinic plays a crucial role in optimising strength, mobility, and confidence before surgery while facilitating a smoother and more efficient recovery afterward. In this blog, we will explore the benefits of pre and post-operative physiotherapy and how we can support you through every stage of your surgical journey.

What is Pre-Operative Physiotherapy?

Pre-operative physiotherapy is a structured program designed to prepare your body for surgery by improving strength, mobility, and overall function. The primary goal is to enhance the body’s resilience, reduce surgical complications, and promote a smoother recovery post-surgery.

A tailored pre-operative physiotherapy plan typically includes:

• Strengthening exercises to build muscle around the surgical site
• Flexibility and mobility training to maintain joint range of motion
• Pain management strategies such as manual therapy and guided movement
• Education on post-operative care and rehabilitation strategies

By assessing each individual’s condition, a physiotherapist can create a personalised treatment plan that supports optimal surgical outcomes.

The Benefits of Pre-Operative Physiotherapy

Improving Strength and Mobility

One of the key aspects of pre-operative physiotherapy is strengthening muscles that will be impacted by surgery. By increasing muscle strength and joint mobility before surgery, patients often experience better post-operative function and reduced muscle loss during any periods of immobilisation.

Reducing Pain and Swelling

Physiotherapists at Malvern Physiotherapy Clinic employ techniques such as gentle exercise, soft tissue mobilisation, and pain education to help manage pre-existing pain and inflammation, ensuring patients are as comfortable as possible before their procedure.

Psychological Preparation

Surgery can be daunting, and anxiety often plays a role in pre-surgical stress. Physiotherapy helps instill confidence by educating patients on what to expect, demonstrating exercises, and ensuring they feel prepared to manage their recovery effectively.

Optimizing Post-Operative Recovery

A strong, flexible body heals more efficiently. Patients who undergo pre-operative physiotherapy often find their post-surgical rehabilitation more manageable, leading to quicker recovery times and fewer complications.

What is Post-Operative Physiotherapy?

Post-operative physiotherapy focuses on restoring mobility, preventing complications, and guiding patients through a structured recovery process after surgery. The objective is to regain function, manage pain, and facilitate a return to daily activities as smoothly as possible.

Your physiotherapist will determine a post-operative programs that may involve the following:

• Gentle movement exercises to restore mobility
• Techniques to manage pain and reduce inflammation
• Strategies to prevent complications such as blood clots or muscle atrophy
• Gradual strengthening and conditioning exercises tailored to each recovery phase

The Benefits of Post-Operative Physiotherapy

Restoring Movement and Function

Immediately following surgery, regaining movement is a priority. A physiotherapist will guide you through appropriate exercises to prevent stiffness, rebuild muscle strength, and restore joint function safely.

Pain Management

Physiotherapy employs various techniques such as manual therapy, controlled movements, and pain education to help alleviate discomfort and improve tolerance for rehabilitation exercises.

Scar Tissue Management and Reducing Swelling

Excessive scar tissue formation can limit mobility and cause discomfort. Physiotherapists use soft tissue mobilisation, stretching techniques, and gentle movement to minimise scar tissue buildup and improve flexibility.

Speeding Up Recovery

A well-structured physiotherapy program ensures a more efficient healing process by gradually reintroducing strength, stability, and movement, helping patients return to their daily routines faster and with fewer complications.

When to Start Pre and Post-Operative Physiotherapy

Pre-Operative Physiotherapy

It is generally recommended to start pre-operative physiotherapy several weeks before surgery. This allows sufficient time to build strength, improve flexibility, and become familiar with post-surgical exercises.

Post-Operative Physiotherapy

In most cases, post-operative physiotherapy begins as early as a few days after surgery. The timing will depend on the type of surgery and the recommendations from your surgeon and physiotherapist.

Ongoing Care for Full Recovery

Rehabilitation doesn’t end after the initial recovery phase. Long-term physiotherapy may be necessary to ensure full restoration of strength and mobility, preventing future complications and enhancing overall quality of life.

Conclusion

Pre and post-operative physiotherapy are essential components of a successful surgical outcome. By preparing the body before surgery and following a structured rehabilitation program afterward, patients experience improved recovery, reduced pain, and a quicker return to daily activities. If you or a loved one is scheduled for surgery, consulting with a physiotherapist at Malvern Physiotherapy Clinic can help you develop a personalised care plan to support your journey.

Click here to book an appointment online or call our friendly reception team at 9078 8434 for more information on how we can support your pre and post-operative care.

Published February 18, 2025