Physiotherapy at home after cardiac surgery: what to expect during recovery
Recovering from cardiac surgery can feel daunting, especially once you return home. Whether you have had a coronary artery bypass graft (CABG), heart valve surgery, or another cardiac procedure, it is normal to feel tired, weaker than usual, and unsure about how much activity is safe.
Movement and exercise are an important part of recovery. Physiotherapy can help you regain confidence, improve your fitness, and safely return to the activities you enjoy.
In this article, we'll discuss some of the key aspects of recovery after cardiac surgery, including sternotomy precautions, breathing exercises, and how to gradually progress your mobility.
Why is physiotherapy important after cardiac surgery?
Cardiac surgery places significant demands on the body. During the recovery period, many people experience:
Fatigue
Reduced exercise tolerance
Shortness of breath
Muscle weakness
Reduced confidence with movement
Physiotherapy helps address these challenges through a gradual and structured approach to rehabilitation. Research shows that cardiac rehabilitation and exercise programmes can improve physical function, quality of life, and confidence following heart surgery.
Understanding sternotomy precautions
Many cardiac surgeries are performed through a sternotomy, where the breastbone (sternum) is divided to allow the surgeon access to the heart.
Although the sternum is wired back together during surgery, it takes time to heal. Normally patients are advised to avoid heavy lifting, pushing, and pulling during the early stages of recovery.
Some general recommendations may include:
Avoiding heavy lifting during the first few weeks
Using both arms evenly when standing up from a chair
Avoiding sudden or forceful pushing and pulling movements
Supporting the chest with a pillow when coughing if advised by your healthcare team
It is important to remember that recovery advice can vary depending on the type of surgery you have had and your surgeon's recommendations. Always follow the guidance provided by your cardiac team.
The importance of deep breathing exercises
One of the most overlooked aspects of recovery after cardiac surgery is breathing.
Following surgery, discomfort around the chest, time spent in bed, and the effects of anaesthesia can make people take shallower breaths. This can increase the risk of chest infections and other respiratory complications.
Deep breathing exercises help to:
Improve lung and chest expansion
Increase oxygen delivery around the body
Reduce the risk of chest infections
Improve confidence with breathing and movement
A simple breathing exercise involves:
Sitting comfortably with good posture.
Taking a slow breath in through your nose.
Allowing your chest and lower ribs to expand.
Holding the breath for a few seconds if comfortable.
Slowly breathing out through your mouth.
Many patients are encouraged to practise breathing exercises regularly throughout the day, particularly during the first few weeks after surgery.
Getting moving again: progressing mobility safely
While rest is important after surgery, prolonged inactivity can delay recovery.
Walking is often one of the safest and most effective forms of exercise after cardiac surgery. Early mobilisation helps improve circulation, maintain muscle strength, and support lung function.
The first few weeks
Initially, your focus may be on:
Walking around the house regularly
Avoiding long periods of sitting
Completing daily self-care tasks
Performing breathing exercises
Short walks performed several times throughout the day are often better tolerated than one longer walk.
Building endurance
As your recovery progresses, you can gradually increase the duration of your walks.
It is normal to experience some fatigue during this stage. Recovery is rarely a straight line, and energy levels may vary from day to day.
The key is to progress gradually and avoid doing too much too soon.
Returning to your baseline
For many people, the ultimate goal is to return to:
Independent daily activities
Social outings
Hobbies and leisure activities
Work, when medically appropriate
Regular exercise
Recovery timelines vary, but many people notice significant improvements within the first 6 to 12 weeks after surgery, although full recovery may take longer.
When should you seek medical advice?
Contact your healthcare team if you experience:
New or worsening shortness of breath
Chest pain
Dizziness or fainting
Signs of wound infection
Increasing swelling in your legs
Concerns about your sternum or surgical wound
Prompt assessment can help identify any complications early.
Final thoughts
Recovering from cardiac surgery takes time, patience, and the right support. Physiotherapy can play a valuable role in helping you rebuild strength, improve confidence, and safely return to the activities that matter most to you.
By focusing on breathing exercises, following appropriate sternotomy precautions, and gradually increasing your activity levels, you can support your recovery and work towards getting back to your normal routine.
Remember that every recovery journey is different. If you are unsure about what activities are appropriate for you, seek advice from your cardiac rehabilitation team or physiotherapist.
