When to See a Physiotherapist After Surgery

When Should You Start Physiotherapy?

The timing depends on the type of surgery, but in most cases, rehabilitation should begin within the first few days to weeks. Your surgeon will typically provide guidance, but here are some general timelines:

Joint replacements (hip, knee): Physiotherapy often starts within 24-48 hours after surgery, initially in hospital, then continues at home. Early mobilisation is critical for preventing blood clots and restoring range of motion.

ACL or ligament repairs: Rehabilitation usually begins within the first week, focusing on reducing swelling and regaining basic movement before progressing to strength work over 6-12 months.

Spinal surgery: Depending on the procedure, gentle physiotherapy may start within days, with more intensive rehabilitation beginning after 4-6 weeks once initial healing has occurred.

Signs You Need Physiotherapy Sooner

While following your surgeon’s timeline is important, certain signs indicate you should see a physiotherapist promptly:

Persistent swelling that is not reducing after the first two weeks. Increasing stiffness or a noticeable loss of range of motion. Pain that is worsening rather than gradually improving. Difficulty performing basic movements like walking, climbing stairs, or getting dressed. Numbness, tingling, or weakness that was not present before surgery.

What to Expect from Post-Surgical Physiotherapy

Your physiotherapist will create a personalised rehabilitation programme tailored to your surgery and goals. This typically includes pain management techniques such as ice therapy and gentle manual therapy, range-of-motion exercises to combat stiffness, progressive strengthening exercises, balance and proprioception training, and functional exercises specific to your daily activities or sport.

Sessions are usually weekly initially, becoming less frequent as you progress. Most post-surgical rehabilitation programmes last between 6 weeks and 6 months depending on the complexity of the surgery.

Benefits of Home Visit Physiotherapy After Surgery

Travelling to a clinic after surgery can be painful, exhausting, and sometimes impossible, particularly in the early weeks. Home visit physiotherapy eliminates this barrier entirely. Your physio comes to you with all the necessary equipment, treats you in the comfort of your own home, and can assess your home environment to provide practical advice on managing daily tasks safely.

At FlexAura Home Physio UK, our post-surgical specialists are experienced in managing recovery from a wide range of procedures. Book a home visit and start your recovery journey today.