Do you need a referral for post-operative rehabilitation?

Post-operative rehabilitation is guided recovery after an operation. A physiotherapist may work on swelling control, safe movement, joint range, strength, walking, transfers and a home exercise plan. The timing and restrictions depend on the operation, tissues repaired, wound condition and instructions from the surgical team.

Before leaving hospital, confirm whether the surgeon has sent the referral, where sessions will take place and when they should begin. Ask for written limits on weight-bearing, driving, wound care and exercise. If you arranged treatment independently, give the physiotherapist the operation note, discharge instructions, medication list and contact details for the surgical team. Do not progress exercises beyond the prescribed plan without guidance.

Seek prompt advice for increasing wound redness, drainage, fever, sudden swelling, uncontrolled pain, new weakness, new numbness, or a limb that becomes cold or changes colour. Sudden breathlessness or chest pain needs emergency help.

Ask when rehabilitation should start, which movements or loads are restricted, how progress will be checked, who to contact about wound concerns, and how pain or swelling should be managed during exercises.