Physiotherapy is not only vital during the limb lengthening process but also extremely beneficial before surgery. Performing targeted pre-operative exercises helps improve muscle flexibility and strengthen tendons, making post-surgery recovery smoother, faster, and more effective.

Key Recommendations for Pre-Operative Physiotherapy:

• Start Early: Begin exercises at least 3–4 weeks before surgery to maximize muscle flexibility and tendon readiness.

• Be Consistent: Perform each exercise in 3–6 sets of 15 repetitions. Start with 3 sets and gradually increase over time.

• Target Areas: Focus on muscle groups such as the TFL, quadriceps, internal and external rotators, gastrocnemius, and hamstrings.

• Seek Guidance: Always consult your doctor or physiotherapist before starting an exercise program to ensure it is suitable for your condition and upcoming surgery.

By preparing your body in advance, you give yourself the best possible foundation for a successful surgery and recovery journey.

Physiotherapy plays a crucial role in the limb lengthening process. In the first 2–3 months after surgery, patients are advised to attend at least 4–5 physiotherapy sessions per week. In the following months, the exact number of sessions should always be determined in consultation with the doctor to ensure proper progress.

At Wannabetaller®, we provide physiotherapy at the highest international standards. Guided by our experienced physiotherapists, your recovery in Istanbul will be faster, safer, and healthier.

Support at Every Step
From your very first contact with us, each patient is accompanied by a dedicated Wannabetaller® team member who provides guidance and assistance throughout every stage of the journey. Our team remains accessible and responsive for the entire duration of your stay in Turkey. Every patient benefits from personalized support and first-class care from our skilled and attentive staff.

Physiotherapy Before Surgery
Physiotherapy is not only vital after surgery but also highly beneficial before the operation. Pre-operative exercises increase muscle flexibility and strengthen tendons, which helps make the post-surgery recovery phase much smoother and more effective. Patients are recommended to start these exercises 3–4 weeks before surgery under the guidance of their doctor or physiotherapist.

Physiotherapy and daily exercises are inseparable from a successful limb lengthening experience. They play a vital role in every stage of the process. Here’s why they are so important:

Bone and Soft Tissue Adaptation
In limb lengthening surgery, the bones are surgically cut (osteotomy) and gradually distracted to increase height. As the bones lengthen, the surrounding muscles, nerves, blood vessels, and tendons are also stretched. Since most patients aim for 5–7 cm of lengthening, this puts significant tension on the body, often resulting in pain and reduced mobility in the legs and feet.

Training Muscles for Flexibility and Strength
Just as regular physical training strengthens and stretches the muscles, the same principle applies to limb lengthening. Through physiotherapy and targeted stretching exercises, the legs adapt to the newly gained bone length, becoming stronger, more flexible, and better prepared for recovery.

Risks Without Physiotherapy
Neglecting physiotherapy leads to abnormal tension, which can cause severe pain and limit mobility. In extreme cases, continuing the distraction phase without proper physiotherapy may even result in nerve damage.

Why Professional Support Matters
Although patients can perform some exercises on their own, self-training alone is often insufficient for a safe and effective recovery. Even disciplined routines may not challenge the muscles enough. A skilled physiotherapist helps patients move beyond their comfort zones in a safe, guided way — expanding range of motion, preventing complications, and ensuring faster, healthier recovery.

Hydrotherapy, also known as Aquatherapy, is a physiotherapy method performed in a warm pool, where patients carry out targeted exercises in water. The buoyancy and resistance of water help relieve pain, reduce stress on the joints, and make the treatment process much more comfortable.

This method is especially recommended for Precice 2 patients during their lengthening phase. Since Precice 2 nails are implanted inside the legs, these patients cannot bear significant weight due to the risk of nail breakage. Therefore, they are often limited to bed-based physiotherapy.

With Hydrotherapy, however, the natural buoyancy of water supports the body, allowing patients to perform standing exercises safely and effectively. This enables them to maintain mobility, strengthen their muscles, and improve flexibility while minimizing the risk of complications.