What You Can Do At Home To Be Ready For Your Upcoming Surgery
The COVID 19 pandemic has forced the vast majority of hospitals and medical centers in our region to temporarily put elective surgeries on hold. This leaves many who are awaiting knee surgeries, shoulder surgeries or joint replacements having to postpone their procedures. Though you may be stuck at home awaiting a surgery date, a preoperative exercise program will not only help you feel better in the short term but also improve your postoperative outcome.
Research has shown that specifically designed preoperative strengthening exercises are incredibly helpful to patients. Rooks et al(1) showed that a six week preoperative strengthening program improved not only function level and muscle strength before surgery but also reduced the need for inpatient rehabilitation postoperatively for those undergoing knee and hip replacement surgery. Another study by Fialla et al(2) showed that preoperative progressive strengthening and neuromuscular training for those awaiting ACL reconstruction improved functional outcomes and return to sport rates following surgery.
These exercise programs do, however, need to be specifically designed for each patient. Simply starting up a general exercise program may increase pain, swelling, or cause decreased range of motion in the joint. All serious problems before surgery. Fortunately, simply meeting with a physical therapist through a telehealth visit is perfect for setting you up on an exercise program that is right for you. If you are awaiting surgery contact us today and we will set you up with a telehealth visit with one or our PTs to get you feeling better today and improve your outcomes after surgery. Go to our website at completegamept.com and click on the “request an appointment” button to get started today.
Rooks, DS, Huang J, et al. 2006. “Effect of Preoperative Exercise on Measures of Functional Status of Men and Women Undergoing Hip and Knee Arthroplasty.” Arthritis & Rheumatism. Vol. 55. No 2. Pp 700-708.
Failla, MJ, Logerstedt, DS et al. 2016. “Does Extended Preoperative Rehabilitation Influence Outcomes 2 Years After ACL Reconstruction.” Am J Sports Med. Vol. 44. No 10. Pp 2608-2614.