Understanding post-surgical rehabilitation
Surgery is often just the first step in recovery. What happens afterward - how you're guided through healing, loading, and rebuilding strength - plays a critical role in your final outcome. Post-surgical rehabilitation requires a carefully staged approach that respects healing timelines while steadily restoring movement and function.
Common procedures we support
- ACL reconstruction - staged rehabilitation to restore knee stability, strength, and confidence to return to sport
- Joint replacement - hip and knee replacement recovery, focused on regaining mobility and independence
- Rotator cuff repair - careful shoulder rehabilitation that respects tissue healing while restoring range of motion
- Meniscus or cartilage repair - guided loading programmes to protect the repair while rebuilding function
- General orthopaedic surgery - tailored rehabilitation following fracture fixation or other orthopaedic procedures
How we support post-surgical recovery at Mi Physio
Every rehabilitation plan is built around your specific procedure, surgeon's protocol, and recovery goals. Your plan may include:
- Early-stage guidance on movement, swelling management, and protecting the surgical site
- A staged, progressive exercise and strengthening programme
- Hands-on manual therapy to manage stiffness and restore range of motion
- Movement and functional assessment as you progress through recovery
- A structured return-to-activity or return-to-sport plan where relevant
When to start post-surgical physiotherapy
Most surgeons recommend starting physiotherapy soon after surgery. It's worth booking an assessment if:
- You have an upcoming surgery and want a plan in place for afterward
- You've recently had surgery and haven't yet started rehabilitation
- You feel your recovery has stalled or isn't progressing as expected
- You want guidance on safely returning to sport or normal activity
Common questions
Do I need a referral for post-surgical physiotherapy?
No referral is necessary, though if your surgeon has provided a specific rehabilitation protocol, bring it with you so we can work alongside their guidance.
Is post-surgical rehabilitation covered by ACC?
If your surgery was related to an injury, it's likely covered by ACC. If it wasn't injury-related, we're still happy to treat you privately, and can provide receipts for private insurance claims.
When should I start physiotherapy after surgery?
This depends on your specific procedure and surgeon's protocol. Many people begin within the first couple of weeks after surgery - we're happy to discuss timing based on your situation.
