Rehabilitation and Recovery: Post Robotic knee Surgery Care

Post-surgical care and rehabilitation are necessary for recovery, particularly after surgeries involving orthopaedic, cardiac, and thoracic problems, among others. All types of surgery present certain post-surgical complications that can be managed through physiotherapy.

Benefits of Post-surgical Rehabilitation

Physiotherapy usually begins almost immediately after Orthopedic Surgery in Bangalore in the hospital to optimise the benefits of physiotherapy and achieve the best possible outcome and recovery. The goal of physiotherapy is to carry out a range of exercises that strengthen and mobilise any affected joints or muscles to increase circulation in the area.

The extended benefits of post-surgical rehabilitation include the following:

• Regaining muscle functionality
• Strengthening weak muscles
• Managing pain effectively
• Improvement in the range of movement
• Improving posture
• Returning to the level of activity as was possible previously
• Gradually returning to daily life activities
• Stretching muscles that may have become stiff
• Improving lung function and volumes to prevent lung infection
• Finding effective positions to increase comfort and reduce the risk of pressure sores

Who Benefits from Post-surgical Rehabilitation?

Anyone who has undergone surgery and is experiencing pain, weakness, reduced coordination and balance, stiffness, and diminished mobility may benefit from post-surgical rehabilitation. Surgery of any kind can take a toll on a person’s physical health, affecting recovery and often leading to frustration and anxiety. Developing a comprehensive recovery plan for the short term and long term can help maximise the pace of recovery and reduce any secondary problems related to surgery.

What to Expect During Post-Robotic Orthopaedic Surgery Rehabilitation?

Most rehabilitation and physiotherapy experts recommend initiating rehabilitation as soon as possible after surgery. Post-surgical rehabilitation programs are tailored to meet the specific needs of patients, relieving pain and addressing specific concerns after surgery. These programs are customised based on the overall health status of the patient, the goals of rehabilitation, and the post-surgical recovery expectations of the individual.

Recovery

The period and pattern of recovery differ from person to person, depending on factors, such as the overall health condition of the patient and the type of surgery they have undergone. The patient’s tolerance level and regularity of follow-up visits to the orthopaedic doctor may also contribute to faster recovery. It is possible that the patient may experience pain even after one month of surgery, as recovery may take anywhere between 2 to 6 weeks or more. Following the doctor’s instructions and performing regular exercises based on the rehabilitation program tailored for the individual patient are important for proper recovery and a prompt return to optimal health.

Physical and Occupational Therapy

Orthopedic Surgery in Bangalore almost always requires follow-up with physical or occupational therapy. The orthopaedic surgeon may also suggest informal therapy routines, such as walking or moving the affected areas of surgery, to reduce friction. Based on the severity of the condition, physical therapy may span a week to a month after the surgery. Physical and/or occupational therapy may focus on training the muscles and nerves to work together to restore balance and strength. Rehabilitation therapy may also involve training using assistive devices like walking canes, as well as helping with daily activities, such as bathing, eating, and dressing up.

How to Optimise Healing?

Optimising healing is essential for ensuring faster recovery post-surgery. Taking certain measures while recovering may help optimise the healing process. These measures may include the following tips:

Lift Affected Parts:

While at rest, lifting the parts that have been operated upon may help improve blood circulation, which, in turn, would reduce pain and swelling in the area. This may speed up the healing process for a successful recovery and long-term benefits.

Move Adjoining Muscles:

A robotic elbow, hip, or knee surgery may impair the function of the entire unit, leading to soreness and swelling. Moving and lifting the adjoining limbs may be beneficial to reduce stiffness in the joints and muscles, while also helping to alleviate symptoms of pain and swelling.

Move the Joints:

If the patient has undergone joint surgery, it may be beneficial for them to slowly move the adjoining limbs, such as the arms or legs, to activate the other joints. Make rotational movements along with bending and stretching lightly to prevent the affected joints from becoming stiff.

Use Assistive Devices

When knee or hip surgery has been performed, patients may need to use walking canes until they can walk independently.

Eating Well

It is important to maintain a healthy diet post-surgery to ensure optimal health and provide strength to the body. Some patients may experience a lack of appetite or nausea after surgery. Consulting with a doctor about what to eat or drink to obtain necessary nutrients, increase appetite, and manage nausea symptoms may be helpful.

Tips on How to Prepare for Post-Robotic Orthopaedic Surgery Rehabilitation

At Apollo Hospitals, Karnataka, surgeons and consultants engage in patient education regarding surgery and rehabilitation. This process helps patients gain a comprehensive understanding of the surgery, the expected recovery process, and the role of rehabilitation in achieving speedy and optimal recovery and healing. By equipping patients with this knowledge, they can mentally prepare and establish realistic expectations for the healing journey.

• Arranging for support at home from friends and family, who can offer assistance during the initial phase of recovery, may be a crucial step to consider.
• Coordinate with caregivers for help with transportation to the hospital for post-surgical follow-up, as well as for household tasks, such as dressing and bathing.
• Seek counselling from a therapist when necessary, as the recovery phase may be accompanied by formidable anxiety and worry, which can be managed well with coping mechanisms.
• Modify the living space to optimise accessibility to a recovery-friendly environment. This involves removing tripping hazards and ensuring easy access to important items, such as toiletries, medications, and assistive devices, to promote optimal comfort and relaxation.

Following the doctor’s advice on rehabilitation and recovery at home may help optimise healing, recovery, and improve post-operative patient outcomes.

At Apollo Hospitals, Karnataka, we are dedicated to providing a comprehensive, patient-centric supportive environment and care that goes beyond medical treatment. Rehabilitation is a vital component of the recovery process, enabling patients to regain strength and resume daily activities. That’s why our top Orthopedic Doctors in Bangalore and consultants collaborate with physical therapy and occupational therapy experts to create a conducive environment that promotes rest and healing during the recovery period, maximising the overall well-being of our patients. By customising a structured rehabilitation program and engaging in patient education to adequately prepare them, we ensure optimal results for maximising recovery.