DO YOU OR A LOVED ONE HAVE AN UPCOMING PROSTATECTOMY?
Although this can be a nerve-racking time leading up to surgery there are a couple of things to keep in mind to encourage a speedy recovery and reduce those post-surgical symptoms.
So maybe you have met with your urologist and it was suggested that you strengthen the pelvic floor before surgery.
But what does this mean?
A lot of us have heard the infamous “kegel” term and although it is one of the main ways to strengthening the pelvic floor, many are left with determining how many to do, how long to hold, how do I know if I am doing them correctly? All of these internal battles leave many of us just not doing them, thus maybe not having great outcomes after surgery. With the many advances in prostatectomy surgery now being less invasive, it does not mean there is any less trauma to the pelvic floor or surrounding structures.
So, what is the advantage to pre-hab you ask?
An assessment from a physical therapist that specializes in pelvic floor rehab is crucial to assess and determine your baseline function and areas of weakness giving you the opportunity to put “your best foot forward” and increase your chance for return to optimal function following surgery. There is great evidence showing improved outcomes from those who completed a “pre-hab” program compared to those do did not.
Your “pre-hab” visit includes expert education in not only pelvic floor strengthening but other potential areas of weakness such as (core, hips) in addition to proper breathing mechanics and stretching techniques. These in combination will improve your overall muscular strength and blood flow which is crucial for proper healing.
How soon to schedule a “pre-hab visit”? Ideally, we would like to see you 6-8 weeks before surgery allowing enough time for ample strengthening and addressing any other deficits found during the examination.
Still debating if “pre-hab is for you”?
Ask yourself this, If you knew there was something that could help prevent you from injury if you knew there was something that would help you recover quicker and back to doing what you love, would you take the opportunity? YES!
And we are here to help you every step of the way from “pre-hab” to “rehab” our expert pelvic floor rehab therapists have you covered, give us a call today!