Virtual Physio before and after Surgery
Undergoing surgery can be a life-changing experience, and the success of the procedure is often influenced by the few months leading up to it as well as the few months afterward. Physiotherapy plays a crucial role in pre and post-operative rehabilitation, aiding in the restoration of strength, mobility, and overall well-being. However, attending in-person sessions during the initial recovery phase can be challenging for many individuals. In this blog post, we will explore the concept of virtual physiotherapy, its benefits, and how it can revolutionize the rehabilitation process for surgical patients.
Before delving into the world of virtual physiotherapy, it's essential to understand the significance of preoperative rehabilitation. Studies have shown that optimizing range of motion and strength before surgery can significantly enhance post-surgical outcomes. By focusing on prehabilitation, individuals can reduce the risk of complications, accelerate recovery, and improve their overall quality of life.
Traditionally, physiotherapy sessions begin within a few days after surgery. However, this immediate postoperative period can be particularly challenging for patients due to pain, discomfort, and limited mobility. Commuting to and from a clinic during this phase can be arduous and may impede the recovery process. This is where virtual physiotherapy steps in as a convenient and accessible solution.
Virtual physiotherapy, also known as tele-rehabilitation, utilizes technology to connect patients with healthcare professionals remotely. This innovative approach allows individuals to initiate the rehabilitation process from the comfort of their own homes, eliminating the need for physical travel and reducing barriers to care.
A recent study titled, "Effectiveness of Physiotherapy with Tele-rehabilitation in Surgical Patients: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis" has demonstrated support for the efficacy of virtual physiotherapy in a surgical population. This study aimed to examine the impact of tele-rehabilitation on postoperative functional outcomes and quality of life in surgical patients.
The researchers collected relevant studies from various databases, including MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL, the Cochrane Library, PEDro, Google Scholar, and the World Health Organization International Clinical Trials Registry Platform. After assessing the methodological quality of the included studies, they found that physiotherapy with telerehabilitation yielded positive results.
The study's quantitative synthesis revealed an overall pooled standardised mean difference of 1.01 (95% confidence interval 0.18 to 1.84), indicating an increase in favor of telerehabilitation in surgical patients' quality of life. Although a meta-analysis on all clinical outcome measures was limited due to the variability in intervention contents and outcome measures, the study concluded that physiotherapy with telerehabilitation is feasible, enhances quality of life, and is at least equally effective as usual care in surgical populations.
Based on the evidence presented, it is evident that virtual physiotherapy holds tremendous potential for improving surgical outcomes. By embracing this approach, patients can:
Begin rehabilitation earlier: With virtual physiotherapy, patients can start their recovery journey immediately after surgery, eliminating the delay caused by having to be mobile enough to commute to a clinic.
Overcome geographical barriers: Virtual physiotherapy transcends geographical limitations, ensuring that individuals in remote areas or those with limited access to clinics can still receive expert care in an equitable way.
Enjoy flexible exercise hours: Tele-rehabilitation allows patients to schedule sessions at their convenience, fitting rehabilitation exercises into their daily routines seamlessly.
Receive evidence-based care: Physiotherapy with telerehabilitation follows evidence-based practices and is backed by research, ensuring that patients receive high-quality and effective treatment.
Incorporating virtual physiotherapy into the surgical rehabilitation process offers numerous advantages. It allows patients to commence their recovery journey promptly, overcomes geographical barriers, provides flexibility, and is an evidence-based approach to improving surgical outcomes. As technology continues to advance, virtual physiotherapy will play an increasingly vital role in enhancing accessibility and ensuring optimal postoperative recovery for surgical patients.
Whether it's prehabilitation or postoperative rehabilitation, the key is to prioritize your well-being. By embracing virtual physiotherapy, you can take charge of your recovery and embark on a path to improved range of motion, strength, and overall quality of life.
