Pre / Post-operative rehabilitation is crucial for the success of any surgical procedure. The purpose is to regain muscle strength, range of motion, coordination in walking and mitigation of pain. The exercise program has several important benefits:
- Return range of motion to normal and decrease the risk of post-operative stiffness
- Increase muscle strength
- Improve balance
- Maintain fitness in preparation for surgery
The rehabilitation period is between 3 months to 6 months depending on the extent of surgery because of the time necessary for the cartilage cells to adapt and mature into repair tissue. When the rehabilitation period is too short, the cartilage repair might be placed under too much stress, causing the repair to fail.
Post-operative management and immobilization for primary treatment of acute musculoskeletal soft-tissue injuries is less effective than controlled mobilization. Early mobilization encourages a rapid return to physical activity, reduces persistent swelling, restores the stability of the tissue involved, restores range of motion, and makes positive rehabilitation outcomes.
Examples of orthopaedic surgeries:
Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) Reconstruction
ACL injury is the tearing of the ACL, which mostly occur during participation in sports that involve jumping, sudden stops or change of directions. Rehabilitation can be done pre and post operation to help patients regain strength and stability of their knee.
Posterior Cruciate Ligament (PCL) Reconstruction
PCL injury is the tearing of the PCL, which is mostly caused by a blow to the knee while it is bent. Rehabilitation can be done pre and post operation to help patients regain strength and stability of their knees.
Arthroscopy
Arthroscopy is a surgical procedure orthopaedic surgeons use to visualize, diagnose, and treat problems inside a joint, without making a large incision through the skin and other soft tissues. Arthroscopy is commonly used on the knee joint, treating meniscal, ligaments, cartilage and patella injuries.
Meniscectomy
Meniscectomy is a surgical procedure for the removal of all or part of a torn meniscus in the knee joint.
Rotator Cuff Repair
Rotator cuff repair is a surgical procedure to repair and reattach a torn tendon in the shoulder.
Joint Replacement
Joint replacement is a surgical procedure whereby a damaged joint is removed and replaced by a new joint.
Total Knee Replacement (TKR)
Total knee replacement is a surgical procedure whereby the damaged bone and cartilage of the knee joint is replaced with prosthetic components, such as metal or plastic.
Total Hip Replacement (THR)
Total hip replacement is a surgical procedure whereby the damaged bone and cartilage of the hip joint is removed and replaced with prosthetic components, such as metal or plastic.
