Post-Operative Physiotherapy

Several types of surgeries may require physiotherapy rehabilitation afterward to optimise recovery and restore function. Some of the most common operations that often necessitate postoperative physiotherapy include:

• Orthopaedic Surgeries: Procedures such as joint replacement (e.g: knee, hip), fracture repair, arthroscopic surgery (e.g: shoulder, knee), spinal surgery (e.g: laminectomy, fusion), and ligament or tendon repairs often require physiotherapy to restore range of motion, improve strength and stability, and facilitate return to normal activities.
• Cardiac Surgeries: Individuals undergoing cardiac surgeries such as coronary artery bypass graft (CABG), heart valve repair or replacement, or cardiac pacemaker insertion may benefit from physiotherapy to improve cardiovascular fitness, manage symptoms, and reduce the risk of complications such as pneumonia or deep vein thrombosis.
• Respiratory Surgeries: Procedures such as thoracic surgery (e.g., lung resection, lobectomy), lung transplant, or surgery for conditions like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) may require physiotherapy to optimise respiratory function, facilitate lung expansion, and prevent postoperative complications such as atelectasis or pneumonia.
• Neurological Surgeries: Surgeries involving the nervous system, such as brain tumour resection, spinal cord surgery, or peripheral nerve repair, may necessitate physiotherapy to address motor deficits, improve coordination, and promote functional independence postoperatively.
• Abdominal Surgeries: Procedures such as abdominal hernia repair, appendectomy, gallbladder removal (cholecystectomy), or bariatric surgery may require physiotherapy to promote mobility, prevent respiratory complications, and facilitate recovery of abdominal strength and function.
• Breast Surgeries: Breast surgeries such as mastectomy, lumpectomy, or breast reconstruction may benefit from physiotherapy to address postoperative pain, restore range of motion, and promote lymphatic drainage to reduce the risk of lymphedema.

These are just a few examples of surgeries that commonly require post-operative physiotherapy rehabilitation. The specific rehabilitation needs will vary depending on the type of surgery, individual factors such as age and overall health, and any pre-existing medical conditions.

Physiotherapists play a crucial role in designing personalised rehabilitation programs to address the unique needs of each individual undergoing surgery and to optimise recovery outcomes.