Physiotherapy for Post-Surgical Rehabilitation

How Can Physiotherapy Help with Post-Surgical Rehabilitation?

Following orthopaedic surgery, physiotherapy is a critical component of the recovery process. Regaining range of motion, rebuilding muscle strength and returning to daily activities are among the fundamental goals of the post-surgical physiotherapy process.

Physiotherapy Assessment

The first step in post-surgical physiotherapy is a comprehensive assessment guided by the surgeon’s referral. The assessment covers:

• Type of surgery and the surgeon’s protocol
• Current range of motion and restrictions
• Muscle strength and level of atrophy (muscle wasting)
• Pain levels and wound healing status
• Functional goals (daily life, work, sport)

Physiotherapy Approaches

The approaches used in post-surgical rehabilitation vary depending on the type of surgery and stage of recovery, and may include:

• Manual therapy — gradual improvement of range of motion through joint mobilisation and soft tissue techniques at the appropriate stage
• Therapeutic exercise — beginning with isometric exercises in the early phase and progressively advancing to strengthening and functional exercises
• Gait training — re-establishing safe and correct walking patterns following lower limb surgery
• Home exercise programme — regularly continuing exercises learnt during sessions at home

The extent to which each approach is applied is determined based on individual assessment and the surgeon’s protocol.

When Should You See a Physiotherapist?

Post-surgical physiotherapy typically begins with your surgeon’s referral. If you are planning surgery, a pre-surgical physiotherapy assessment can also contribute to your recovery process. Your physiotherapist can create a rehabilitation plan tailored to your condition, working in coordination with your surgeon.