Getting Ahead of Prostate Surgery: Pre-Operative Exercise Tips

Preparing for prostate surgery can be a stressful experience. However, adopting a proactive approach through pre-operative exercises can make a significant difference in your recovery and overall outcome. In this post, we outline key exercise tips designed to bolster your pelvic floor and overall strength before surgery.

Why Pre-Operative Preparation Matters

Pre-operative exercise, particularly focusing on the pelvic floor, helps condition your body for the stress of surgery. A well-prepared body not only recovers faster but also experiences fewer complications. By starting your exercise programme before surgery, you build a strong foundation that can ease post-operative recovery, improve bladder control, and boost overall confidence.

Key Exercise Tips for Pre-Operative Preparation

1. Pelvic Floor Contractions (Kegels):
   Begin with identifying your pelvic floor muscles. Contract them for 5–10 seconds and release, repeating for three sets of 10 repetitions. This exercise is crucial as it directly targets the muscles that will be affected during prostate surgery.

2. Core Stability Exercises:
   Strengthening your core helps support the pelvic region. Incorporate exercises like planks and bridges to build overall core strength. A strong core not only aids in pelvic floor recovery but also enhances your posture and reduces the risk of post-surgery complications.

3. Gentle Stretching:
   Flexibility is key in maintaining a healthy pelvic region. Gentle stretching of the lower back, hips, and thighs can help keep the muscles supple and ready for surgery. This also assists in reducing muscle stiffness and promoting blood flow.

4. Breathing Techniques:
   Learning proper breathing techniques is essential for pre-operative preparation. Deep, controlled breathing helps reduce stress and improves oxygenation, which is vital during surgery. Practice diaphragmatic breathing to enhance relaxation and support your overall exercise routine.

The Role of Technology in Pre-Operative Training

At Southside Physiotherapy, we often use real-time ultrasound feedback to ensure you are engaging the correct muscles. This technology provides immediate visual feedback, helping you refine your technique and make the most of your exercise programme.

Tips for Staying Motivated

Preparing for surgery can be challenging both physically and mentally. Setting clear, achievable goals and tracking your progress can help keep you motivated. Remember, every small improvement is a step towards a smoother recovery post-surgery.

Final Thoughts

Taking the time to prepare before surgery is an investment in your future well-being. By focusing on pelvic floor and core exercises, you can create a solid foundation that not only supports your surgery but also promotes faster, more efficient recovery afterward.

At Southside Physiotherapy, we are committed to providing you with the best pre-operative guidance. Our team is here to support you through every step, ensuring that you enter surgery with confidence and a robust exercise plan in place.