Prehabilitation: Physical Therapy Before Surgery
Reality is that many of us will suffer an orthopedic, sports, accident or aged related injury or illness sometime in our life. Injuries can happen to anyone at any time while recreating or working. Many of these injuries will heal on their own while others will require formal rehabilitation by a physical therapist or may require surgery. Many people understand the importance of rehab after an injury or surgery, but few know the benefits of therapy (prehabilitation) before a surgery.
The very thought of having surgery can be a little anxiety provoking. There are many things to consider if heading to a surgery and it can be daunting. Costs related to the surgery, time for rehab, time away from work and one and on. No wonder many of us put of these nagging pains until we start losing daily function. What if, by performing what is known as prehabilitation, you could ease the entire process and improve your outcomes after and even before surgery?
Prehabilitation, or prehab, offers several benefits for patients who are faced with injuries and planning to have a surgical procedure.
- According to several studies, people who participate in prehab can shorten hospital stays/get home faster and decrease overall care duration after surgery all while improving outcomes.
- Prehab can also have psychological benefits: through the educational process patients will improve their understanding and knowledge of what to anticipate after their surgery is performed making recovery afterwards that much smoother.
- Plus you will have established a relationship with your therapist and be set to resume therapy once your surgeon gives you the go ahead.
– Mark Hyland, Clinical Director
References:Brown, Kent & Topp, Robert & Brosky, Joseph & Lajoie, Scott. (2012). Prehabilitation and quality of life three months after total knee arthroplasty: A pilot study. Perceptual and motor skills. 115. 765-74. 10.2466/15.06.10.PMS.115.6.765-774
Physical therapy prior to surgery is covered by most insurance carriers and we advise on your benefits. Complete our Free Injury Assessment here to get started! We will schedule your first appointment within 24 hours, it’s that easy!
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