Returning home after surgery is a significant milestone in your recovery. Gentle, appropriate movement is one of the most effective ways to regain your strength, mobility, and independence. This guide, created by our physiotherapy specialists, offers practical advice on how to approach your rehabilitation safely in the comfort of your own home.
Key Takeaways
- Gentle exercise after surgery helps reduce stiffness and prevent complications like clots.
- Start with simple movements like ankle pumps and deep breathing exercises.
- Always listen to your body and never push through sharp or sudden pain.
In This Article
Why is Movement Important After Surgery?
After an operation, your body needs to heal, and a period of rest is vital. However, prolonged inactivity can lead to joint stiffness, muscle weakness, and a higher risk of complications such as chest infections or blood clots. The right kind of movement, introduced at the right time, can significantly aid your recovery.
A structured post-surgery rehabilitation plan helps to gently reintroduce activity, manage pain and swelling, and restore normal function. By starting with small, manageable exercises, you can rebuild your strength and confidence, allowing you to return to your daily activities more quickly and safely. The familiarity of your own home provides a comfortable and convenient setting for this important process.
The Gentle First Steps of Home Rehabilitation
In the early days and weeks after your surgery, the focus is on promoting circulation, preventing stiffness, and keeping your lungs clear. These exercises are very gentle and can often be done while resting in bed or sitting in a supportive chair. It’s crucial to follow any specific instructions given to you by the hospital team.
Initial Exercises to Promote Healing:
- Deep Breathing: Sit as upright as is comfortable. Take a slow, deep breath in through your nose, allowing your chest and abdomen to expand. Hold for a few seconds, then breathe out gently through your mouth. Repeat this 5 times every hour to help keep your lungs clear.
- Ankle Pumps: While lying or sitting, gently point your toes away from you and then pull them back towards you. This simple movement helps to pump blood in your lower legs, reducing the risk of clots. Aim for 10 repetitions every hour.
- Knee Bends (Heel Slides): Lying on your back or sitting in a chair, gently slide your heel towards your bottom, bending your knee as far as is comfortable. Then, slowly slide it back to the starting position. Repeat 5-10 times with each leg.
Progressing Your Recovery Safely
As you begin to feel stronger and more comfortable, you can gradually introduce exercises that build strength and improve your ability to perform daily tasks. The key is to progress slowly and listen to your body. Mild discomfort is normal, but you should stop if you feel any sharp, sudden, or severe pain.
Exercises for Building Strength:
- Sit to Stand: Using a sturdy, non-wheeled chair (preferably with arms), start from a seated position. Lean forward and push through your feet to stand up. Then, slowly and with control, lower yourself back down. This is a vital functional exercise for everyday independence.
- Standing Marching: Holding onto a stable surface like a kitchen worktop for support, slowly march on the spot, lifting each knee gently. This helps to improve balance and strength.
- Mini Squats: With your hands resting on a support, stand with your feet hip-width apart. Slowly bend your knees a small amount, keeping your back straight. Push back up to the starting position. This strengthens the key muscles used for walking and climbing stairs.
Safety First: The following exercises are for general guidance only and may not be suitable for everyone. It is essential to consult with a qualified healthcare professional, such as your surgeon or a physiotherapist, before starting any new exercise programme after surgery. They can provide a personalised plan based on your specific procedure and recovery needs. Stop immediately if you experience chest pain, dizziness, or new or worsening pain.
The information in this article is intended for general educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional, such as a Chartered Physiotherapist or registered Occupational Therapist, for a personal assessment and tailored advice. They can help you understand your specific condition and recommend the most appropriate treatment and exercise plan for your needs.
The Role of a Home Physiotherapist
While this guide provides a starting point, every recovery journey is unique. A physiotherapist can provide a detailed assessment in your own home, creating a rehabilitation programme that is tailored specifically to your needs, your home environment, and your personal goals. This professional guidance ensures you are progressing safely and effectively, giving you the confidence and support needed for the best possible recovery. If you are unsure about any aspect of your home physiotherapy, it is always best to seek expert advice.
