Spinal surgery is a significant medical procedure that can help relieve chronic back pain, improve mobility, and restore quality of life for those suffering from spinal disorders or injuries. However, the road to recovery doesn’t end in the operating theatre. Whether you’re preparing for surgery or on the other side of it, physiotherapy plays a crucial role in ensuring the best possible outcome.
In this blog, we’ll explore the different types of spinal surgery, why physiotherapy is essential both before and after your procedure, and how a tailored rehabilitation plan can make all the difference.
Types of Spinal Surgery
There are several types of spinal surgery, each designed to address specific conditions affecting the spine. Some of the most common procedures include:
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Discectomy: Removal of a portion of a herniated disc that is pressing on a nerve root or the spinal cord.
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Laminectomy: Removal of part of the vertebra (the lamina) to relieve pressure on the spinal nerves, commonly used to treat spinal stenosis.
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Spinal fusion: A procedure that permanently connects two or more vertebrae to improve stability or correct a deformity.
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Disc replacement: An alternative to spinal fusion where a damaged disc is replaced with an artificial one, maintaining more natural movement.
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Foraminotomy: Widening of the space where nerve roots exit the spinal column to relieve pressure and reduce pain.
These surgeries may be performed due to conditions like degenerative disc disease, herniated discs, spinal stenosis, scoliosis, or spinal fractures. The recovery process varies depending on the type of surgery and the individual’s overall health and lifestyle.
Why Pre-Surgical Physiotherapy Matters
Also known as “prehabilitation,” pre-surgical physiotherapy is often overlooked, yet it can have a significant impact on post-surgical outcomes. Preparing your body before spinal surgery helps improve strength, flexibility, and cardiovascular fitness, all of which can speed up recovery.
A physiotherapist will assess your posture, core stability, and movement patterns to identify areas that need improvement. Prehab may include:
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Gentle core strengthening exercises
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Stretching routines to improve flexibility
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Education on body mechanics and spinal alignment
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Breathing and relaxation techniques to manage anxiety and pain
Research shows that patients who undergo prehab often experience fewer post-operative complications and return to normal activities more quickly. In short, the stronger and more prepared your body is before surgery, the better it will respond during recovery.
Post-Surgical Physiotherapy: The Path to Recovery
Once spinal surgery is complete, physiotherapy becomes essential for regaining movement, strength, and confidence. Initially, the focus is on pain management and gentle mobilisation. As healing progresses, treatment becomes more active and functional.
Your physiotherapist will create a personalised rehabilitation plan that may include:
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Pain management: Techniques like ice/heat therapy, gentle mobilisation, and soft tissue work to reduce discomfort.
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Mobility exercises: Gradual stretching and range-of-motion exercises to prevent stiffness and promote healing.
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Strength training: Targeted exercises to strengthen core and spinal stabilising muscles, crucial for long-term spine health.
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Posture and ergonomics: Education on proper posture, lifting techniques, and sleeping positions to prevent re-injury.
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Functional training: Helping you return to daily activities, work, or sport safely and confidently.
Your recovery timeline will depend on your type of surgery, age, and overall health. It’s essential to follow your physiotherapist’s guidance closely, as pushing too hard or doing too little can delay healing.
The Importance of Ongoing Support
Physiotherapy after spinal surgery is not just about short-term recovery — it’s about building long-term spinal health and resilience. Regular check-ins with your physiotherapist help monitor progress, adjust your exercise program, and catch any issues early before they become setbacks. See HERE, for more information on how important moniotring by a professional is.
For some patients, physiotherapy continues for several months after surgery. It’s a gradual process that requires consistency and commitment, but the rewards are worth it: reduced pain, improved mobility, and a better quality of life.
IN SHORT
Spinal surgery is a big step, but with the right preparation and rehabilitation, it can lead to lasting relief and improved function. Physiotherapy is a key part of that journey, helping you recover faster, move better, and return to the activities you enjoy.
Whether you’re about to undergo spinal surgery or are currently in recovery, our experienced physiotherapists are here to support you every step of the way. Get in touch today to book an assessment and take the first step toward a healthier spine.
When diagnosed with cancer, the journey ahead can feel daunting. With the physical and emotional challenges that come with treatment, many people often wonder how they can maintain their strength and quality of life. One powerful tool that’s gaining recognition in cancer care is exercise. From maintaining muscle mass during chemotherapy to improving overall well-being, exercise has shown to provide significant benefits for cancer patients. Exercise physiology plays a key role in understanding these benefits and developing safe, effective exercise programs tailored to each individual’s needs.
Why is Exercise Important for Cancer Patients?
Cancer treatment, such as chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and surgery, can be physically taxing. Patients often experience fatigue, muscle wasting, weight loss, and a decrease in strength and endurance. These effects can have a significant impact on daily activities and overall quality of life. However, research shows that exercise can help mitigate these side effects, improving both physical and emotional health.
Exercise can be defined as any planned, structured, and repetitive physical activity that improves or maintains physical fitness. For cancer patients, regular exercise helps reduce the impact of cancer-related fatigue, boosts energy levels, strengthens the immune system, and supports the maintenance of muscle mass and bone density. Exercise physiology focuses on understanding the body’s response to physical activity, and this knowledge is crucial when designing exercise programs for cancer patients.
Maintaining Muscle Mass During Chemotherapy
One of the most concerning effects of chemotherapy is muscle wasting, also known as cancer cachexia. This condition leads to a significant loss of muscle mass and strength, which can worsen fatigue and limit mobility. Chemotherapy targets rapidly dividing cells, which include not only cancer cells but also healthy cells, such as those in muscles. As a result, patients often experience a loss of lean body mass, making it harder to perform everyday tasks.
Exercise, particularly resistance training, has been shown to be effective in countering muscle loss and promoting muscle retention during chemotherapy. Studies have found that engaging in strength-based exercises, such as lifting weights or using resistance bands, can stimulate muscle growth and prevent further deterioration. The key is to start at a manageable level and gradually increase intensity, ensuring that the body is not overstressed.
Exercise physiology plays an essential role in guiding cancer patients through this process. By designing a program that targets the muscles most affected by treatment, exercise physiologists ensure that patients are engaging in the right exercises in the right way to maintain muscle mass safely. Whether through resistance training, functional movement exercises, or even bodyweight exercises, staying active can help patients preserve their strength during treatment.
The Psychological Benefits of Exercise for Cancer Patients
Aside from the physical benefits, exercise also has a profound impact on mental health. A cancer diagnosis and the stress of treatment can lead to feelings of anxiety, depression, and isolation. Exercise has been shown to improve mood, reduce stress, and help manage symptoms of depression, which are common among cancer patients.
Endorphins, the body’s natural mood-boosting chemicals, are released during exercise, promoting a sense of well-being. Furthermore, the routine and sense of accomplishment associated with exercise can foster a sense of control, which is often lost during the cancer journey. These psychological benefits, in turn, can improve adherence to treatment and enhance overall quality of life.
Reducing the Risk of Cancer Recurrence
Research also suggests that regular exercise can help reduce the risk of cancer recurrence. Studies have shown that patients who engage in moderate physical activity after cancer treatment may experience a lower risk of their cancer returning, particularly in breast, colon, and prostate cancer survivors. Exercise can improve immune function, regulate hormones, and reduce inflammation—all factors that play a role in cancer progression.
While more research is needed to fully understand the mechanisms behind this relationship, the evidence so far is promising. For cancer survivors, staying active can be an important step in long-term health management.
Building a Safe and Effective Exercise Program
When it comes to exercise for cancer patients, safety is key. Every individual’s situation is unique, so it’s important to tailor exercise plans to the person’s specific needs, treatment stage, and fitness level. Exercise physiology plays a crucial role in this process, using scientific knowledge of how the body responds to exercise to create a personalised plan that ensures maximum benefit with minimal risk.
The following are some general guidelines for creating an exercise program for cancer patients:
- Start Slow: Begin with low-intensity exercises such as walking, light stretching, or gentle yoga. As strength improves, you can gradually increase the intensity and duration.
- Incorporate Strength Training: Resistance exercises help build muscle mass and counteract muscle loss due to chemotherapy. However, start with lighter weights or resistance bands, and progressively increase as the body adapts.
- Focus on Flexibility and Balance: Cancer treatments can impact flexibility and balance, so incorporating exercises like stretching and balance training can improve coordination and reduce the risk of falls.
- Stay Hydrated and Rested: It’s crucial to listen to your body. Stay hydrated, rest when needed, and ensure that your exercise program is balanced with recovery periods.
- Consult an Exercise Physiologist: Before beginning any exercise regimen, especially during or after cancer treatment, it’s important to consult with a qualified exercise physiologist. They can design a program tailored to your specific needs and ensure that you are exercising safely.
Conclusion
Exercise plays an essential role in managing the side effects of cancer treatment, improving overall physical and mental health, and supporting the maintenance of muscle mass during chemotherapy. Through the guidance of exercise physiology, cancer patients can enjoy a tailored program that helps them stay active and improve their quality of life. Whether you’re currently undergoing treatment or are a cancer survivor, integrating exercise into your routine can provide numerous benefits, supporting your journey towards better health and wellness.
If you or a loved one is going through cancer treatment, don’t hesitate to consult an exercise physiologist to create a plan that works for you. Your body will thank you for it. Read more HERE