Water And The Road To Recovery
Surgeries, even when elective, can be traumatic for the body. Incisions need time to heal, and tissues need to repair and regenerate. In cases of total joint replacement, the muscles need time to regain strength. The recovery process can take several months. Considering these factors, surgeons provide strict post-operative recovery instructions and guidelines. Patients may need to take pain medications as scheduled, follow wound care instructions, and engage in physical therapy (PT) to regain function and strength. During this recovery process, aquatic therapy, like swimming, can help ease pain and speed up healing. Water therapy has long been a fantastic tool to support regeneration after injury or surgery.
The healing properties of water
Immersing the body in water can be beneficial for recovering patients. Water helps reduce inflammation, relax muscles, increase range of motion (ROM), and improve circulation. Moreover, the buoyancy of the water reduces the impact on joints and tissues, allowing for gentle movement without putting excessive stress on the surgical areas. Additionally, the water’s hydrostatic pressure helps reduce swelling and aids in the removal of waste products and toxins from the body.
How swimming helps with rehabilitation
For many people, swimming can be particularly beneficial for post-surgery rehabilitation. Since swimming is a low-impact exercise, patients can engage in physical activity without putting strain on the healing surgical areas. Swimming is also a cardiovascular workout, promoting blood circulation and oxygenation of tissues, aiding in the healing process. Furthermore, swimming allows for a wide range of movements and exercises, targeting different muscle groups and promoting overall strength and flexibility. The resistance provided by the water during swimming can also help with muscle strengthening and building endurance.
How swimming helps with pain management
Studies show swimming can also help lessen pain during the recovery process. During the exercise, endorphins are released, helping reduce pain and improve mood. Moreover, stress hormones are reduced, thus promoting relaxation and decreasing pain levels. Water immersion can provide a soothing effect on the surgical incisions and surrounding tissues, relieving pain and promoting a sense of comfort and well-being.
Speed up healing and tissue repair
Swimming can also help speed up the overall healing process. As blood circulation improves during swimming, oxygen and nutrients are delivered more efficiently to the injured tissues, promoting tissue repair and regeneration. Additionally, the hydrostatic pressure of the water can assist in reducing swelling and inflammation, expediting the healing process. Swimming also helps improve range of motion and flexibility, preventing muscle stiffness and promoting optimal tissue healing.
Trust the way of water
Individuals who recently had surgery can largely benefit from swimming. However, this doesn’t mean post-surgery patients should immediately jump into the pool. Patients need to consult with the healthcare provider to determine if swimming is suitable and when swimming can be safely incorporated into the rehabilitation program. Moreover, having a well-trained aquatic physiotherapist or rehabilitation specialist is crucial to ensure that the swimming exercises are performed correctly and safely.
