Prehabilitation: What is it and How Can it Help?

Article featured on Orthopedic Specialty Institute

Orthopedic surgeries, such as joint replacements, ligament repairs, and spinal procedures, are often necessary to alleviate pain and improve quality of life. While the focus typically lies on post-operative rehabilitation, a growing trend in the medical field is emphasizing the importance of “prehabilitation” or “prehab”– a proactive approach to preparing patients for surgery. Prehabilitation includes targeted exercises, lifestyle adjustments, and psychological support aimed at improving a patient’s physical and mental condition before they have surgery.

Let’s explore what prehab is and how it can significantly impact the outcome of orthopedic surgeries.

Understanding Prehabilitation (aka Prehab)

Prehabilitation, often referred to as “prehab,” is a series of recommendations designed to improve a patient’s physical fitness and overall health prior to a surgical procedure. It recognizes that a patient’s baseline health can influence their ability to tolerate surgery and recover successfully. By improving a patient’s physical condition, prehabilitation aims to minimize complications, expedite recovery, and enhance the overall surgical experience.

Common Benefits of Prehabilitation

Better Surgical Outcome

Engaging in prehabilitation exercises can improve muscle strength, joint mobility, and cardiovascular fitness. These factors contribute to better surgical outcomes, shorter hospital stays, and reduced risk of post-operative complications.

Faster Recovery

Prehabilitation primes the body for the stress of surgery, making the recovery process smoother and faster. Stronger muscles and improved cardiovascular fitness can aid in early mobility and reduced reliance on pain medication.

Reduced Complications

Patients who undergo prehabilitation are better equipped to handle the physiological stress of surgery. This can lead to a decreased risk of infections, blood clots, and other complications.

Psychological Well-being

Prehabilitation can also help address the mental aspect of surgery. It helps patients feel more in control and confident about their upcoming procedure, reducing anxiety and improving overall mental health.

What Prehab Can Often Include

Exercise

Prehabilitation involves tailored exercise routines that target the muscles around the surgical area. Strengthening these muscles can enhance joint stability and support post-surgery rehabilitation. It’s not too intensive; after all, you’re about to go into surgery and don’t want to risk additional injury.

Nutritional Guidance

Proper nutrition is crucial for tissue healing and immune system support. Prehabilitation may include dietary recommendations to optimize nutrient intake.

Lifestyle Modifications

Stopping smoking, drinkng alcohol in moderation, and weight management are often addressed during prehabilitation. These changes promote better healing and reduce the risk of complications.

Pain Management Education

Patients are educated about post-operative pain management techniques, setting realistic expectations for pain and discomfort.

Breathing and Relaxation Techniques

Breathing techniques might seem superfluous, but breathing can be one of the best ways to help calm yourself down post-surgery. Learning deep breathing and relaxation techniques can alleviate anxiety and help patients manage pain post-surgery.

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