What does post-operative rehabilitation treat?

A tailored programme supports recovery after procedures such as joint replacement, fracture repair, ligament reconstruction, tendon repair or spinal surgery. It may focus on restoring joint range, activating muscles that have been protected or underused, improving walking or reaching, and gradually rebuilding everyday tasks.

The therapist may also work on scar mobility when appropriate, safe transfers, stairs, coordination and ways to manage movement while tissues heal. The plan changes with the operation, your symptoms, the surgeon’s restrictions and your progress. Rehabilitation is supportive care; it does not replace assessment of a new surgical problem.

Attend the review appointments and practise only the exercises prescribed for your stage. Use walking aids, braces or other supports as instructed, keep wounds protected according to the surgical team’s advice, and record changes in pain, swelling, movement and function. Progression may include gentle motion first, followed by strengthening, balance work and task practice.

Rehabilitation can follow a Total Knee Replacement, Bunion Surgery, Spinal Fusion, ACL Reconstruction, Rotator Cuff Repair or Hip Fracture Surgery. It may also support recovery after an Achilles Tendon Rupture.

Seek prompt clinical advice for increasing wound redness, drainage, fever, a sudden increase in swelling or pain, a new loss of movement, or a limb that becomes unusually cold, pale or numb. Sudden breathlessness, chest pain, or new one-sided calf swelling needs urgent medical assessment.

Which movements and loads are allowed now? What change should make me stop an exercise? When should I expect a review of strength, walking or joint movement, and who should I contact if progress stalls?