Selective Dorsal Rhizotomy (SDR) Physiotherapy Singapore
Selective Dorsal Rhizotomy (SDR) is a complex neurosurgery to relieve severe spasticity. Our clinical physiotherapy in Singapore delivers intensive post-operative rehabilitation to unlock independent mobility.
What is Selective Dorsal Rhizotomy (SDR)?
Selective Dorsal Rhizotomy (SDR) is a neurosurgical procedure used to reduce spasticity (muscle stiffness) in the lower limbs.
During the surgery, selected nerve roots in the lower spinal cord are carefully cut to reduce abnormal muscle signals. This helps muscles move more freely and improves overall function.
SDR is most commonly performed in children with neurological conditions, especially those affecting movement and muscle control.
If you are looking for post-surgery physiotherapy in Singapore, ACE Physio Sports provides structured rehabilitation programmes to maximise recovery.
Learn more 👉 https://acephysiosport.com
Why is SDR Surgery Needed?
SDR is recommended for individuals with significant spasticity affecting movement and daily function.
Common indications include:
- Spastic cerebral palsy
- Spastic diplegia or quadriplegia
- Muscle stiffness limiting walking
- Difficulty with coordination and mobility
- Contractures (tight, shortened muscles)
The main goals of SDR are to:
- Reduce or eliminate spasticity
- Improve walking and movement
- Increase independence in daily activities
Physiotherapy BEFORE Surgery (Pre-Rehab)
Before SDR, physiotherapy helps prepare the body for surgery and recovery.
At ACE Physio Sports, pre-surgery rehab focuses on:
- Assessing strength, mobility, and movement patterns
- Improving muscle flexibility
- Educating parents/caregivers on recovery expectations
- Preparing for post-surgery rehabilitation
This improves surgical outcomes and smoother recovery.
Symptoms AFTER Surgery (What to Expect)
After SDR, patients may experience:
- Temporary weakness in the legs
- Reduced muscle stiffness
- Difficulty walking initially
- Fatigue during movement
- Need to relearn movement patterns
Children often feel like they cannot walk properly at first, as the body adapts to reduced spasticity.
Physiotherapy AFTER SDR (Recovery Phases)
Phase 1: Early Recovery (Weeks 0–4)
- Pain and scar management
- Gentle range-of-motion exercises
- Positioning and early movement
- Preventing stiffness
Phase 2: Strength & Control (Weeks 4–12)
- Strengthening weakened muscles
- Core stability exercises
- Basic movement retraining
- Early standing and walking practice
Phase 3: Functional Training (3–6 Months)
- Gait training (walking re-education)
- Balance and coordination exercises
- Improving endurance
- Functional movement practice
Phase 4: Advanced Rehabilitation (6+ Months)
- Advanced strength and mobility work
- Return to daily activities and sports
- Long-term movement optimisation
At ACE Physio Sports (Singapore, near East Coast Road), rehabilitation is intensive, structured, and tailored to each patient’s needs and goals.
Explore rehab support 👉 https://acephysiosport.com
What Should I Do After Surgery?
- Follow physiotherapy consistently
- Stay committed to long-term rehabilitation
- Perform home exercises regularly
- Support movement practice daily
- Work closely with your physiotherapist
Consistency is key to achieving the best results.
What Shouldn’t I Do After Surgery?
- Do not skip physiotherapy sessions
- Avoid inactivity or prolonged rest
- Do not expect instant results
- Avoid unsupervised high-intensity activity
- Do not ignore weakness or movement difficulties
Recovery requires time and structured effort.
Recovery Timeline & Long-Term Outcomes
Recovery after SDR is long-term and progressive:
- Early recovery: 1–3 months
- Functional improvement: 3–6 months
- Long-term gains: 6–12+ months
Outcomes depend on:
- Severity of condition
- Consistency with physiotherapy
- Age and overall health
With proper rehab, patients can achieve:
- Improved walking ability
- Better muscle control
- Increased independence
Why Choose ACE Physio Sports
- Expertise in neurological and post-surgical rehab
- Structured long-term rehabilitation programmes
- Child-friendly and goal-oriented approach
- Located near East Coast Road, Singapore
- Focus on functional independence and outcomes
We guide patients and families through every stage of recovery.
Book Appointment
If you are looking for SDR physiotherapy in Singapore, ACE Physio Sports can help.
📞 Call: +65 81535374 🌐 Book online: https://acephysiosport.com
Frequently Asked Questions
How soon can I start walking after Selective Dorsal Rhizotomy?
Most spinal surgery patients are encouraged to walk short distances within 24–48 hours of the procedure. Physiotherapy begins in hospital, focusing on safe posture awareness, gentle movement, and building walking tolerance progressively.
How long will I have back pain after Selective Dorsal Rhizotomy?
Some post-operative discomfort is expected for 4–12 weeks. Your physiotherapist will help manage pain through positioning strategies, graded exercises, and education. Pain should progressively reduce as healing occurs over this period.
When can I return to sitting at a desk or driving after Selective Dorsal Rhizotomy?
Most patients return to desk work within 2–6 weeks and driving within 4–8 weeks, once cleared by their surgeon. Your physiotherapist will advise on ergonomics, posture, and activity modification during this period.
Ready to start your recovery?
Our specialist physiotherapists are here to help. Book a consultation today.
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