Physiotherapists often talk about the benefits of rehabilitation and many of our services have been developed to support this. But, what do we mean by rehabilitation and why is it so important? If your orthopaedic surgeon or clinician is recommending undergoing a rehabilitation programme, it is helpful to understand why and how you will benefit in the long-term.

What is rehabilitation?

Often the term rehabilitation is used to refer to recovery from surgery. But people may also need to rehabilitate from injuries or accidents, such as falls or sports injuries, and people who have had a stroke or who have chronic or degenerative conditions may also require support to adapt to their new circumstances. 

The term “rehabilitation” means support to return to normal, as much as is possible, and to optimise function and wellbeing.

In the case of certain chronic conditions like arthritis, for example, it may not be possible for someone to achieve the same level of function as before due to the degenerative nature of the illness. In this case, rehabilitation focuses on minimising loss of function and restriction to their lifestyle.

Physiotherapy can be helpful in problems affecting the bones, joints and soft tissues as well as the lungs, heart and circulation, brain and nervous system. The amount of treatment varies from person to person but normally five sessions are sufficient to produce improvements. 

The 7 Key Benefits

We refer to the 7 key benefits of rehabilitation. These are:

1. Supports recovery and promotes healing: If you have undergone surgery, your body will need some time to get back to normal. Even if, on the face of it, you feel fit and well, you will be healing for weeks or even months after surgery. Rehabilitation can support the body’s natural healing process and speed your recovery. It should begin as soon as possible after surgery for the best results.
2. Strengthens muscles: Physiotherapists normally recommend a programme of different exercises, which may begin in hospital or in a rehabilitation unit. Musculoskeletal problems are a significant problem in the UK, accounting for nearly a third (30%) of consultations with GPs and half of all sickness absence in the NHS. Rehabilitation can help to improve muscle strength and improve co-ordination for better mobility and easier movement.
3. Improves flexibility: Physiotherapists may recommend a range of different low impact and low intensity exercises which can help to improve movement and flexibility. Walking is particularly effective at mobilising the muscles, working the cardiovascular system and improving core strength. Swimming and pilates or yoga may also be recommended. 
4. Reduces pain and inflammation: Rehabilitation exercises are designed to reduce swelling in the affected joints and muscles. By helping you move more easily and with less pain, you can become more active again which helps prevent stiffness and reduce pain.
5. Minimises risk of future injury: Half of all people who have a fall will fall again within 12 months. Physiotherapy exercise programmes help to strengthen the muscles and improve balance which helps to reduce the risk of falls, particularly in older people.
6. Corrects postural problems: Physiotherapy helps to strengthen the muscles and correct gait and postural problems. It can also prevent the deformities and limb problems from developing.
7. Provides physiological and lifestyle benefits: Physiotherapy looks at the person as a whole and encourages them to play an active role in their own recovery which is beneficial on many levels. By doing the exercises recommended, you should start to see progress and be able to lead a more active life. This can help to rebuild confidence and help you to deal better psychologically with your illness or injury. Greater movement and flexibility will not only help you to feel better but it supports a more active lifestyle, which contributes to maintaining a healthy body weight. Effective rehabilitation can help to increase your independence and may support you to get back to work or leisure activities more quickly, which is beneficial for mental and physical wellbeing.

If you require rehabilitation after injury, illness or surgery, it is important to choose a reputable physiotherapist and to work together to support your recovery.