What is the main purpose of postoperative rehabilitation?

The primary focus of postoperative rehabilitation is to restore function and strength while minimizing complications. After a surgical procedure, patients may experience reduced mobility and strength in the affected area. Rehabilitation aims to facilitate recovery by guiding patients through exercises and activities that help regain range of motion, rebuild muscle strength, and improve overall function. This process is crucial for ensuring optimal healing and preventing complications such as stiffness, atrophy, or further injury.

While minimizing pain and discomfort is an important aspect of patient care, it is not the overarching goal of rehabilitation. Instead, it is one of many factors considered during the recovery process. Preparing the patient for discharge and conducting follow-up assessments are also essential components in the continuum of care; however, they are not the main goals of postoperative rehabilitation itself. The core purpose remains focused on restoring function and strength, as this directly impacts a patient’s ability to return to their daily activities and promotes long-term recovery.