Post-Neurosurgery Rehabilitation Guide

A successful surgery is only the beginning of the recovery process. Rehabilitation is the most critical component of postoperative functional recovery. Rehabilitation that is started early and maintained regularly improves outcomes dramatically.

After Brain Surgery

Early Period (0-2 weeks): Early mobilisation starting in the hospital; getting out of bed, short and frequent walks; evaluation of swallowing, speech, and balance; fall prevention measures. Patients enrolled in a rehabilitation programme after brain tumour surgery show a similar extent of progress to patients after stroke and head trauma.¹

Intermediate Period (2-12 weeks): Motor rehabilitation (strength, coordination, balance), speech therapy (if aphasia is present), cognitive rehabilitation (attention, memory, executive functions), occupational therapy. The programme is planned individually and with a multidisciplinary team.²

Late Period (3-12 months): Social integration, vocational rehabilitation, driving evaluation, psychological support.

After Spine Surgery

Early Period (0-2 weeks): Starting to walk on the day of surgery or the next day is encouraged; short and frequent walks, wound care, and pain control are prioritised.^3,4

Intermediate Period (2-12 weeks): Exercises to strengthen the core muscles accompanied by a physiotherapist and a gradual return to daily activities. If fusion was performed, heavy lifting is avoided until bone healing is complete.

Late Period (3-12 months): Gradual return to work and sports; maintaining the acquired exercise habit.

Multidisciplinary Team

Neurosurgeon, physical therapy specialist, physiotherapist, occupational therapist, speech therapist, neuropsychologist, psychiatrist/psychologist, social worker. Coordination of the rehabilitation team is the key to success.

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