By Sara Donovan, Physiotherapist
Are you preparing for an upcoming knee replacement?
Our Physios are great at screening for the list of intrinsic/extrinsic factors that can predispose you to injury especially if you have had a previous lower leg injury. We will screen for these and build a programme to help modify the factors like muscle imbalances and decreased flexibility.
At Melbourne Sports Physiotherapy we see many people who suffer with knee osteoarthritis. It can be extremely disabling and painful, frustrating and tiring! If you tried everything and reached the point where you have had enough and decided on a knee replacement as the next step, then keep on reading.
Many people will visit a Physio post operatively to help them rehabilitate and allow them to get moving and stronger. But what if we could do this prior to your surgery to allow you to recover QUICKER and get back to your life FASTER post operatively?
At Melbourne Sports Physiotherapy we offer a comprehensive PREHABILITATION program BEFORE your surgery, to allow you to get the best result following your knee replacement.
Prehabilitation, what is it?
Prehabilitation is the first stage in the rehabilitation pathway. ‘Prehab’ prepares you both physically and mentally for the surgery and the rehabilitation that follows. Prehab is paramount to a successful joint replacement and should be started ideally at least 6 weeks prior to your surgery.
Many studies have shown that those those who undergo ‘prehab’ have much better RECOVERY following their surgery, with less pain, a shorter hospital stay and more function.
How to begin Prehabilitation for a knee replacement?
To begin your prehabilitation you will first have an assessment with one of our Physiotherapists at Melbourne Sports Physiotherapy. During the session your physio will assess you to identify common impairments such as poor muscle activation, muscle imbalances, mobility limitations and balance issues. You will then begin to address these issues prior to surgery which allows you to recover faster and with a fewer complications after surgery.
How can Prehabilitation help my Knee?
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Decrease your pain levels prior to your surgery
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Prepares you physically and mentally for your rehabilitation
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Familiarise yourself with the exercises you will need to do after your surgery
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It improves general fitness and conditioning for your surgery
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It also improved your muscle strength and endurance before your surgery and has the potential to contribute to postoperative recovery.
The take home message
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A committed pre/rehabilitation program is one of the most important aspects of returning back to full function following a knee replacement
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We will ensure you go into your surgery with a positive mindset that carries on throughout your road to recovery.
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At Melbourne Sports Physiotherapy we will providing you with the opportunity to talk about any fears you may have such as… ‘how long will I be in hospital for, when can I drive, going to the toilet and more!’
Remember, your surgery is only half the battle to returning to full function! Let us help.
If you have sustained an injury from playing tennis or are just keen on a targeted, individualised injury prevention program book in with one of our Physiotherapists today!
Melbourne Sports Physiotherapy
Melbourne Sports Physio has a range of qualified and experienced professionals who can help provide ongoing support and treatment. Our friendly team are located in across Melbourne in Essendon and Blackburn, and appointments can be made by calling or booking online.