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Recovery from a hysterectomy is often quite long and physiotherapy is a very effective way to help you gradually return to your full fitness as soon as possible. Physio.co.uk have specialist women’s health physiotherapists that are experienced at treating women following hysterectomies.
Above: Passive stretch of the hip and pelvic muscles by specialist MSK therapistThere are different types of hysterectomies depending on why you are having the surgery:
Total abdominal hysterectomy: removal of the uterus and the cervix through the abdomen (stomach)
Subtotal hysterectomy: only the uterus is removed
Vaginal hysterectomy: the uterus and cervix are removed through the vagina
Laparoscopic hysterectomy: small incisions (cuts) are made in your abdomen where the surgeon will insert a tiny camera too see the area before the uterus is removed
Radical or Wertheims hysterectomy: the uterus, cervix, fallopian tubes and part of the vagina are removed usually due to cancer
The experienced physiotherapists at Physio.co.uk can work with you to design a tailored treatment programme to optimise your recovery. Physio.co.uk will recommend beginning your treatment programme slightly before the operation to maximise the success of the operation and prepare you for afterwards.
Above: Passive stretch of the hip and pelvic muscles by specialist MSK therapistPhysiotherapy prior to a hysterectomy
Your physiotherapist at Physio.co.uk will have various physiotherapy treatments to keep you as active as possible before your operation. Possible physiotherapy includes:
- Upper limb strengthening exercises
- Strengthening pelvic floor muscles
- Transverse abdominis exercises
- Cardiovascular exercise including cycling and walking
- Hydrotherapy
- Lower limb strengthening exercises
- Preparation for your physiotherapy programme after the operation
Symptoms following a hysterectomy
There are a number of symptoms that you may experience following your operation. Your physiotherapist at Physio.co.uk can help you identify these and help to manage them appropriately. Possible symptoms may include:
- Temporary pain from the operation
- Reduced strength and cardiovascular fitness
- A scar from the incision
- Swelling around the wound
- Temporary loss of sensation around the wound due to damaging of the nerves during the operation
- Temporary bruising around the wound
Physiotherapy following a hysterectomy
You may be in hospital for 5-7 days depending on the type of hysterectomy and your recovery rate. When you have been discharged, it is important to begin your physiotherapy programme created by by your physiotherapist at Physio.co.uk as soon as possible.
Above: Strengthening exercises for the hip and pelvic muscles, supervised by MSK therapistWeek 1
The following treatments may be included:
- Advice on scar management
- Pelvic floor strengthening exercises
- Pain control modalities
- Elevation exercises
- Advice about the most comfortable positioning
- Simple mobility exercises such as walking
- Tranverse abdominis strengthening exercises
- Lower limb strengthening and range of movement exercises
Weeks 2-6
Your symptoms should now be reducing and you will feel able to gradually return to your normal daily routine. Physiotherapy with Physio.co.uk may include:
- Progressing all strengthening exercises
- Upper limb strengthening and range of movement exercises
- Progressing transverse abdominis exercises
- Carrying out pelvic floor exercises in more functional positions
- Including more functional activities relating to your hobbies or work
- Pacing advice
Week 7 onwards
You will now be gradually returning to your normal activities of daily living and be experiencing little or no pain. After six weeks you should lifting activities without pain although you should not lift heavy amounts for up to 6 months. Your physiotherapy programme with Physio.co.uk will now concentrate on functional activities relating to your goals. Your physiotherapist at Physio.co.uk will advice you on when you can drive again although this usually can take up to 12 weeks.
Above: Passive stretch of the hip and pelvic muscles by specialist MSK therapistSummary
A hysterectomy is an operation to remove the uterus and sometimes other reproductive organs such as the cervix, fallopian tubes and ovaries. Physiotherapy before and after your operation is recommended to help you return to your normal daily routine as soon as possible. The experienced women’s health physiotherapists at Physio.co.uk will create an individualised programme to facilitate a successful recovery and reduce the risk of any long term complications. To book a physiotherapy appointment, call Physio.co.uk on 0330 088 7800 today!
