Prehabilitation: Enhancing Surgical Recovery Through Preparation

Undergoing surgery can be daunting, but what if you could improve your recovery outcomes before even stepping into the operating room?

Recent research published in The BMJ suggests that prehabilitation, a proactive approach involving exercise, nutrition, and social support, can significantly enhance surgical recovery and reduce complications.

 

What is Prehabilitation?

Prehabilitation is the process of improving a patient's physical and mental condition before surgery to enhance recovery afterward. Instead of focusing solely on rehabilitation post-surgery, this proactive approach prepares the body to withstand surgical stress more effectively.

 

Key Findings from the Latest Research

A 2025 study published in The BMJ analysed data from 166 randomised controlled trials involving 21,115 patients (Read the full study here). The researchers found:

• Exercise-only prehabilitation was found to reduce postoperative complications, though the effect was less pronounced than multimodal approaches.
• Nutritional optimization before surgery contributed to improved recovery and overall surgical outcomes.
• Multimodal prehabilitation, incorporating exercise, nutrition, and psychological support, was associated with a reduction in postoperative complications compared to usual care.

These findings underscore the importance of a comprehensive prehabilitation program tailored to each patient’s needs.

 

How Does Prehabilitation Work?

Prehabilitation generally consists of three key elements:

1. Exercise Training: Improving strength, endurance, and mobility to build resilience for post-operative recovery.
2. Nutritional Optimization: Consuming a nutrient-dense diet to support immune function and tissue healing.
3. Mental and Psychological Preparation: Stress management techniques and psychological support to promote a positive recovery mindset.

 

Why Should You Consider Prehabilitation?

• Faster Recovery: Patients who undergo prehabilitation return to normal function more quickly.
• Lower Risk of Complications: Strengthening the body beforehand reduces the likelihood of surgical complications.
• Improved Surgical Outcomes: Enhanced physical resilience leads to better long-term health and mobility.

 

Take the First Step Toward a Better Recovery

If you’re preparing for surgery, now is the time to invest in your recovery. At Undisputed Performance & Rehab, we focus on physiotherapy-led prehabilitation programs designed to optimise your health before surgery. Our tailored approach ensures you enter surgery stronger and recover faster.

For the best physiotherapy in Caringbah and the Sutherland Shire, contact us today and start your prehabilitation journey. Book an appointment now to maximise your recovery and return to peak health as soon as possible!