Rehabilitation After Surgery
Having surgery is a big step, and recovery can sometimes feel just as challenging as the problem you had in the first place. Whether you’ve had a knee or hip replacement, ACL repair, meniscus surgery, shoulder repair, rotator cuff surgery, spinal or disc surgery, or ankle and foot surgery, the right rehabilitation can make a huge difference to how well — and how confidently — you recover.
Physiotherapy after surgery isn’t about pushing you too hard. It’s about helping your body heal properly, restoring movement step by step, and building your strength back safely.
How Physiotherapy Can Help
Post-surgery physiotherapy is designed to help your body recover in a safe and structured way. It can help by:
- Reducing pain, stiffness and swelling
- Improving movement safely and gradually
- Rebuilding strength in weakened muscles
- Helping you return to normal daily activities, work and sport with confidence
What It’s Like to Have Treatment
Your first session begins with a proper conversation about your surgery and how you’re currently feeling. This may include procedures such as joint replacements, ligament reconstructions, cartilage repairs, spinal operations, fracture repairs or tendon surgery. You’ll be carefully assessed and given a clear, personalised plan from the start.
Your treatment may include:
- Gentle, progressive exercises to restore movement
- Hands-on treatment to ease stiffness and tightness
- Balance, walking and movement retraining
- Clear guidance on what’s safe to do at each stage of recovery
Your Questions, Answered.
Can’t find what your looking for?
Do I need to be referred by my surgeon or GP?
No – you can book directly. If you have your operation notes or post-surgery instructions, it’s helpful to bring them along.
When should I start physiotherapy after surgery?
This depends on the type of surgery. Some people begin within days, while others start after a short rest period. Your programme will always follow what is safe for your stage of healing.
Will treatment be painful?
Rehabilitation should feel controlled and safe. You may feel some tightness or muscle effort, but everything is kept within comfortable and appropriate limits.
What should I wear?
Loose, comfortable clothing that allows easy access to the area being treated.
Can’t find what your looking for?
