IVY Integrative / Services / Prehabilitation
Prehabilitation Therapy
WHAT IS PREHABILITATION?
Prehabilitation, or "prehab," is a proactive approach to improving physical and mental resilience before a medical procedure or to prevent injuries. It focuses on enhancing strength, mobility, and overall health to improve recovery outcomes and reduce complications post-surgery or during physically demanding situations. Prehabilitation often combines physical therapy, nutritional guidance, stress management, and education.
BENEFITS OF PREHABILITATION
Prehabilitation is a research-backed strategy for optimizing outcomes in various medical scenarios, particularly surgeries and chronic conditions. Key benefits include:
Improved Recovery Times: A study in the British Journal of Anaesthesia found that patients who participated in prehabilitation programs before major surgeries experienced 30% faster recovery compared to those who did not.
Reduced Postoperative Complications: Research in JAMA Surgery reported a 40% reduction in complications such as infections or mobility issues in patients who underwent prehabilitation.
Enhanced Physical and Mental Readiness: Prehabilitation prepares the body and mind to handle the physical and psychological stress of surgery, reducing anxiety and improving surgical outcomes.
HOW PREHABILITATION WORKS
Prehabilitation involves a multi-pronged approach tailored to individual needs:
Physical Conditioning: Exercises target strength, flexibility, and endurance, focusing on areas impacted by the upcoming procedure or condition.
Nutritional Optimization: A registered dietitian may develop meal plans to enhance recovery by promoting healing and reducing inflammation.
Breathwork and Stress Reduction: Mind-body techniques such as guided breathing and meditation help lower stress levels and boost resilience.
Education: Patients are informed about what to expect, equipping them with knowledge to navigate their recovery effectively.
COMMON CONDITIONS TREATED BY PREHABILITATION
Prehabilitation is beneficial for a variety of conditions, including:
Orthopedic Surgeries: Knee or hip replacements, spinal surgeries.
Cancer Treatment: Enhances strength and endurance for chemotherapy or radiation.
Cardiovascular Procedures: Prepares patients for heart surgery or interventions.
Chronic Conditions: Arthritis, chronic back pain, or other musculoskeletal disorders.
Injury Prevention: Reduces the risk of sports-related injuries by improving biomechanics and strength.
WHAT TO EXPECT AT A PREHABILITATION SESSION
A typical prehabilitation session includes:
Initial Assessment: A comprehensive evaluation of your current fitness, mobility, and overall health to customize the program.
Customized Exercise Plan: Guided exercises tailored to your specific goals and upcoming procedure or activity.
Hands-On Therapy: Techniques like myofascial release or massage to improve mobility and reduce pain.
Education and Guidance: Instructions for exercises and strategies to practice at home.
Sessions often evolve based on your progress, ensuring maximum benefit leading up to your medical procedure or physical goal.
FAQ
Does Prehabilitation Hurt?
No, prehabilitation is designed to minimize discomfort and improve your physical condition. While some exercises may feel challenging, they should not cause pain. Your prehabilitation specialist will ensure activities are safe and appropriate for your current abilities.
How Long Does a Session Last?
Sessions typically last between 45 minutes to 1 hour. Your practitioner may adjust this based on your individual program and goals.
What Should I Wear?
Wear comfortable, stretchy clothing that allows free movement. Athletic wear, such as leggings, sweatpants, and t-shirts, is ideal. Supportive shoes, like sneakers, are also recommended.
If you need further information or want to schedule a prehabilitation session in Charlotte, NC, we’re here to help you every step of the way.
