Pre-Surgical Prep
Pre-hab is structured strengthening before surgery to improve your strength and range of motion going in — which research links to faster, smoother recovery afterward. At We Care in Hayden, ID, pre-hab uses targeted exercise and the AlterG anti-gravity treadmill to prepare your body when bearing full weight is painful.
What is pre-surgical prep?
Pre-habilitation is preparation in the weeks before a planned surgery. Entering surgery stronger and with better mobility is associated with quicker return of function and a smoother rehabilitation.
Symptoms we commonly see
- A scheduled surgery (e.g., joint replacement or repair)
- Weakness or limited motion before the procedure
- Pain that makes full weight-bearing exercise difficult
How We Care treats pre-surgical prep
Pre-hab is tailored to your upcoming procedure and current limitations. The goal is to maximize strength and motion safely before surgery, even when the joint can't tolerate normal loading.
Pre-surgical assessment
Establishes baseline strength and motion and sets targeted goals.
AlterG anti-gravity treadmill
Lets you train with reduced body weight when the joint can't bear full load.
Targeted strengthening
Prepares the muscles around the surgical site to support recovery.
What to expect
Even a few weeks of pre-hab can improve how you enter surgery. Patients commonly report a more confident, efficient recovery when they've prepared beforehand.
Frequently asked questions
Does pre-hab really improve recovery after surgery?
Entering surgery with better strength and mobility is associated with faster functional recovery. Pre-hab is increasingly recommended before procedures such as joint replacement and ligament repair.
How long before surgery should I start pre-hab?
Even a few weeks can help. The ideal window depends on your procedure and surgeon's timeline; starting as soon as surgery is scheduled gives the most benefit.
Related care at We Care
Physical Medicine Evaluation
A 60-minute assessment of your movement, alignment, and mechanics to map a care plan for your condition.
Idaho is a direct-access state — no physician referral needed to begin physical therapy. Benefits verified before your first visit.
One assessment. One coordinated plan.
It starts with one whole-body FutureGuard Evaluation to find the root cause — then a coordinated plan across physical therapy, chiropractic, massage, fitness, and recovery.
No referral needed in Idaho · Free benefits check · Partially covered by insurance, Medicare & VA
Schedule My FutureGuard Evaluation