Importance of Physiotherapy After Chest Surgery

Chest surgery is commonly carried out either through small incisions in the skin (keyhole surgery) or via the side and back (open surgery). Following the surgery, patients often face challenges such as pain, decreased lung capacity, minor lung collapse, poor posture, difficulty coughing, buildup of mucus, and shoulder discomfort. Physiotherapy is highly effective in helping to prevent and manage these issues.

What Happens After Chest Surgery?

After chest surgery, patients may experience several challenges during recovery, depending on the type of surgery and their overall health. Here are some common issues:

Pain and Discomfort: Pain around the incision site, especially when coughing, breathing deeply, or moving. Pain relief is important during recovery.

Reduced Lung Volume: The lungs may not fully expand after surgery, causing shortness of breath and less stamina during activities.

Lung Collapse (Atelectasis): Some areas of the lung may collapse due to pain or limited movement, increasing the risk of infection if not treated.

Poor Posture: Patients may adopt a hunched posture to avoid pain, which can lead to muscle tightness and long-term discomfort.

Ineffective Coughing: It may be harder to cough effectively, making it difficult to clear mucus from the lungs and raising the risk of infections.

Retained Secretions: Difficulty clearing mucus can cause a buildup in the lungs, increasing the risk of respiratory complications.

Shoulder Pain and Limited Mobility: Shoulder pain and reduced movement can make it hard to perform daily tasks and add to overall discomfort.

Fatigue and Weakness: Recovery can be tiring, and patients often feel weak or fatigued, which can affect their energy and activity levels.

What is the Importance of Physiotherapy after Chest Surgery?

1. Physiotherapy techniques like deep breathing, stretches, and manual therapy help reduce pain, making recovery more comfortable.
2. Breathing exercises restore lung volume, prevent lung collapse, and improve overall lung function.
3. Effective coughing techniques clear mucus from the lungs, lowering the risk of infections like pneumonia.
4. Physiotherapy corrects poor posture, preventing long-term spinal issues and easing discomfort.
5. Shoulder and chest strengthening exercises improve mobility and help prevent weakness.
6. Regular movement and exercises promote circulation, reducing complications like blood clots and joint stiffness.
7. Early physiotherapy speeds up healing, strengthens muscles, and helps patients return to daily activities faster.
8. Physiotherapists offer emotional support, boosting confidence and morale during recovery.

When to Start Physiotherapy After Chest Surgery?

Starting physiotherapy after chest surgery is key to a smooth recovery. The timing depends on the surgery and the patient’s health:

1. Immediately After Surgery (Day 1-2): Physiotherapy may start the day after surgery, focusing on breathing exercises and gentle movements to prevent complications.
2. When Stable and Out of Intensive Care (1-2 Days Post-Surgery): As the patient stabilizes, regular physiotherapy sessions begin, focusing on mobility, posture, and breathing exercises.
3. After Medical Clearance: Once cleared by the doctor, patients can begin personalized physiotherapy to address weakness, improve posture, and build strength.
4. Following Discharge (1-2 Weeks Post-Surgery): Post-discharge, physiotherapy helps strengthen chest, shoulder, and back muscles, focusing on long-term rehabilitation and preventing complications.
5. As Recovery Progresses: Physiotherapy continues to monitor progress, adjust exercises, and ensure full strength and mobility.

Conclusion

Physiotherapy is very important for a successful recovery after chest surgery. It helps manage pain, improve lung function, and increase movement, while also preventing problems like infections, poor posture, and weak muscles. Starting physiotherapy early, either right after surgery or when the doctor gives approval, can help you heal faster and get back to your normal strength and activities. With regular support from physiotherapists, patients can handle recovery more easily and return to their daily life sooner. It’s important to follow the advice of your healthcare team for the best recovery.