Could You Swim To Better Rehab After Surgery?
Surgery is essential to repair damaged joints and ligaments or address underlying issues. After surgery, recovery is necessary, often lasting several months. Rehabilitation can be challenging, often requiring physical therapy or massage, but there are still periods of pain and slow healing. Incorporating swimming into the rehabilitation process can be an effective way to help with the post-recovery process. Whether recovering from orthopedic procedures, joint replacements, or soft tissue repairs, swimming for rehab provides a low-impact alternative to traditional rehab exercises.
The amazing benefits of swimming
Physiotherapists have been incorporating the use of water in post-surgery recovery for decades. Strategies like aqua therapy, for instance, use specific exercises while the user is submerged in a pool of water. Swimming, however, takes things a step further as a full-body exercise that helps patients further along the recovery timeline. Consistent swimming is a low-impact exercise as the buoyancy of water reduces stress on joints and muscles by limiting gravitational load. Some swimmers also report improved mood, as the feelings of accomplishment from performing a few laps in the pool boost morale and reduce stress. Swimming is a great pastime or strategy to stay fit, but these benefits can be easily transferred to post-surgery rehabilitation.
How swimming aids post-surgery recovery
The natural resistance of water engages muscles without overloading healing tissues, promoting strength and flexibility. Swimming also produces hydrostatic pressure, which helps reduce swelling and inflammation, which can happen even in later stages of recovery. Over time, there is enhanced circulation and oxygen delivery to recovering areas. Hydrostatic pressure even soothes the surgical site, reducing pain. As there is more buoyancy, patients can perform a wider range of motion that is not possible out of the water. Even immersing oneself in water can shorten overall recovery time. Patients start physical therapy sooner as there is increased circulation to the surgical area.
Risks and precautions
While swimming is effective for recovery, there are risks to consider. Swimming too soon, for instance, can lead to delayed healing, infections, and increased pain. As swimming requires movements of the limbs, some surgical sites are at risk of scarring and even internal bleeding. Taking the necessary precautions is essential to effective recovery. Patients should not swim without the guidance of a doctor and the supervision of a physiotherapist. Swimming should start at least 3-4 weeks after surgery when the scars have healed and the doctor clears the patient for water activities. Start with short distances using gentle techniques like backstroke and breaststroke, which limit exertion. For individuals with weight-bearing restrictions, floating exercises and light resistance movements may be recommended instead of swimming. Listen to the body and avoid overexertion for a safe and effective recovery.
Let swimming have a say in your recovery
Recovering from surgery can be challenging as pain and delayed healing are common side effects. The benefits of swimming have been shown to reduce pain and lead to a faster return to everyday activities. Even individuals who cannot swim can enjoy benefits from simply walking or jogging in a warm pool. Swimming also helps to maintain functional strength, which may be lost in certain situations. Aim for short swimming sessions using minimal movement while monitoring for excessive pain. With the right techniques and precautions, water-based exercises can aid in a faster, smoother recovery.
