Swetlic Chiropractic & Physical Therapy Can Help in Mount Vernon, Ohio.

The COVID-19 pandemic caused several changes within the healthcare industry. One notable change was the inability for some patients to have elective surgeries. Patients across the US learned that elective surgeries were being postponed - no matter how long patients had been waiting and preparing for the procedures.

Prehabilitation therapy might benefit some patients affected by the postponement of their elective surgery. It depends on the type of surgery the patient is awaiting and the condition of the patient’s body.

Prehabilitation Explained

You have probably heard of rehabilitation therapy, which is done after a person has surgery. Well, prehabilitation therapy is basically the opposite of rehabilitation. Instead of doing it after surgery, prehabilitation occurs before surgery.

Physical therapy before surgery might seem odd. But “prehab” can serve to make rehab much easier. The main goal of prehabilitation is to improve strength and range of motion. And it gives patients a better understanding of what to expect during the recovery and rehab process following surgery. In short, prehabilitation takes away some of the confusion and possibly fear that a patient might feel.

Conditions that Benefit from Prehabilitation

Depending on the type of surgery you are getting, prehabilitation may or may not prove beneficial. This form of physical therapy might work for you if any of following applies to your situation:
- You’re having a total hip replacement.
- Your surgery is musculoskeletal-related
- You’re having a total knee replacement.

Hip replacements, musculoskeletal issues, and knee replacements are generally stable conditions. And people with these issues are often able to perform simple movements that do not worsen the situation.

On the other hand, acute injuries usually cause intense pain and inflammation. And any form of exercise can possibly make the situation worse. That is why prehabilitation usually isn’t recommended when acute injuries are involved.

Benefits of Prehabilitation

You will see the benefits of prehabilitation after you have had surgery. This will most likely manifest itself as faster progress during rehabilitation and faster overall recovery. Another benefit is that prehabilitation helps you develop a positive and informed outlook concerning the aftermath of your surgery.

Prehabilitation Timeline

Prehabilitation usually starts at least two to three weeks before your scheduled surgery date. And visits are usually on a twice-weekly basis. But even when your prehabilitation ends, you’re expected to follow any exercises recommended by your therapist.

Is a Referral Necessary?

You may or may not need a doctor’s referral for prehabilitation. Your best option is to check with your insurance provider to see if a referral is necessary. Even if your insurance does not require a referral, a physical therapist might. In either case, speak with your surgeon or doctor about getting a referral.

Online Physical Therapy is an Option

Online prehabilitation is an option during the COVID-19 pandemic. This eliminates the need to leave your home and is safer for you and your therapist. If you are interested in prehabilitation, we welcome you to contact Swetlic Chiropractic & Physical Therapy today!