Pre-Surgical Rehabilitation

Pre-surgical rehabilitation, or “prehabilitation,”helps you prepare both physically and mentally before surgery. The aim is to build your strength, fitness, and confidence to support a smoother recovery and better results after your operation.

‍For Thoracic (Lung or Chest) Surgery

If you are having lung or chest surgery, your program may include:

• Breathing exercises to strengthen your lungs
• ‍Airway clearance techniques to help keep your lungs clear
• ‍Aerobic conditioning (such as gentle walking or cycling) to improve stamina
• Education on post-operative breathing techniques like using the active cycle of breathing technique, an incentive spirometer and supported coughing to reduce the risk of complications such as pneumonia

For Orthopaedic (Bone or Joint) Surgery

If you are preparing for joint replacement, spinal surgery, or fracture repair, your physiotherapist will focus on:

• Building muscle strength around the affected area
• ‍Improving flexibility and joint movement
• Enhancing balance and endurance to make recovery smoother

These exercises can help reduce pain, improve mobility, and may shorten your hospital stay.

Supporting a Confident Recovery

Prehabilitation is not just about exercise — it’s also about education and reassurance.Your physiotherapist will help you understand what to expect before and after surgery, empowering you to play an active role in your recovery.

By improving your fitness and readiness before surgery, you can reduce complications, recover faster, and safely return to your daily activities.

If you would like to learn more, speak with our team, your GP, or specialist about enrolling in a Pre-Surgical Rehabilitation Program.