Total knee replacement (TKR) and total hip replacement (THR) are major surgeries designed to relieve pain and restore mobility. While post-surgical rehabilitation is essential, prehabilitation (“prehab”) can significantly improve recovery, reduce complications, and enhance long-term function.
Who Benefits from Prehab?
Pre-surgery rehabilitation is especially beneficial for those experiencing:
- Severe pain or stiffness limiting daily activities.
- Muscle weakness affecting balance and stability.
- Reduced range of motion in the knee or hip.
- Swelling or inflammation in the joint.
- Poor balance increasing fall risk.
- Excess weight, which adds strain to the joint and affects recovery.
Why Prehab Matters:
Research shows prehab leads to:
- Faster recovery and earlier return to activities.
- Less post-surgical pain due to improved strength and flexibility.
- Lower complication risks, including fewer infections and shorter hospital stays.
- Better long-term mobility and function.
Key Components of Prehabilitation
1. Physiotherapy Exercises
- Strength Training: Quadriceps, hamstrings, and calf strengthening for TKR; glutes, hip flexors, and core for THR.
- Flexibility: Stretches for hamstrings, hip flexors, quadriceps, and calves to maintain mobility.
- Balance & Stability: Exercises like tandem or single-leg balancing to reduce fall risk.
- Aerobic Fitness: Low-impact activities (swimming, cycling, walking) to support recovery.
2. Education & Preparation
- Understanding the surgical process and setting realistic recovery goals.
- Learning to manage pain and use mobility aids post-surgery.
3. Pain & Swelling Management
- Manual therapy for stiffness and mobility.
- Ice/heat therapy for pain relief and inflammation control.
Information is provided for education purposes only. Always consult your physiotherapist or other health professional.