Early Ambulation and Physiotherapy

Content Type: Patient | Protocols

This page was reviewed by the ERAS Cardiac Editorial Team and is provided for general education only. Always talk with your care team about your individual treatment plan and recovery needs.


Summary

After heart surgery, moving safely and at the right time can support recovery. This process is called early ambulation and physiotherapy. It does not mean strenuous exercise. It refers to gentle movement, walking with help, and using safe techniques to protect the chest and support healing. Some care teams who follow ERAS Cardiac principles include mobility as part of recovery planning, especially in the first days after surgery.

This page offers general education about how movement may support healing. It is not medical advice and does not reflect the practices of every hospital.


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AI Assistance Statement

This summary was developed with assistance from artificial intelligence and reviewed, edited, and approved by the listed editor(s). Reference: OpenAI (2025). ChatGPT (November version) [Large language model]. 
https://chat.openai.com


ERAS Cardiac VEC Disclaimer

The Virtual Education Center (VEC) and all included content are provided for general education about enhanced recovery after cardiac surgery. The information has been reviewed by healthcare professionals but is not meant to replace medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Every patient’s situation is unique. Always talk with your own doctor or care team about what is best for you.

For questions or comments about the ERAS Cardiac VEC, please contact us.