Surgery repairs the structure. Rehab rebuilds the motion, strength and confidence around it. We follow your surgeon's protocol, keep them updated, and move you through each phase as your body is ready.
What does post-surgical rehab feel like?
- Stiffness and swelling in the weeks after surgery
- Weakness in the muscles around the joint
- Difficulty walking, reaching or climbing stairs
- Worry about doing too much, or too little
What usually causes it?
- Knee and hip replacements
- ACL, meniscus and other ligament repairs
- Rotator cuff and shoulder stabilisation surgery
- Ankle fracture fixation and Achilles repairs
How can physical therapy help?
- Swelling and pain management in the early phase
- Restoring range of motion safely
- Progressive strengthening matched to your surgeon's protocol
- Balance, walking and stair training
- Return-to-work and return-to-sport testing
When should I get it checked?
Ideally, book your first visit before surgery or within the first week after, as your surgeon advises.
See a doctor right away if you notice
- Calf pain, redness and swelling (possible blood clot)
- Fever, or redness and drainage from the incision
- Sudden shortness of breath or chest pain (call 911)
Questions about post-surgical rehab
Do I need a referral from my surgeon?
For post-surgical care we usually work from your surgeon's referral and protocol. Bring any paperwork you were given to your first visit.
How long will rehab take?
It depends on the surgery. A knee replacement often takes about three months; an ACL reconstruction can take nine months or more before full sport.