What happens before post-operative rehabilitation?

The surgeon or hospital team shares the operation details, precautions, wound guidance, weight-bearing or lifting limits, and signs that need review. Timing and restrictions differ after total hip replacement, total knee replacement, bunion surgery, spinal fusion, ACL reconstruction, rotator cuff repair or hip fracture surgery.

At assessment, the therapist considers swelling, pain, joint movement, muscle activation, balance, walking or use of the arm. Together you choose goals and a staged plan. Early rehabilitation may focus on safe transfers, breathing, circulation, supported movement or basic activation before more demanding strengthening.

Bring discharge papers, medication details, equipment instructions and contact information for the surgical team. Arrange suitable footwear and a clear route at home if walking is limited. Write down questions about sleeping, bathing, stairs, driving and work. Take pain relief only as prescribed and do not change a brace, wound dressing or weight-bearing status without advice.

Get urgent medical advice for chest pain, sudden breathlessness, fainting, a new cold or pale limb, uncontrolled bleeding, rapidly worsening swelling, or sudden loss of movement. Fever, increasing wound redness, pus or pain that changes sharply should be reported to the surgical team.

Ask when therapy should begin, which movements and loads are allowed, how to use prescribed equipment, and what milestone will change the plan. Confirm who to contact if pain or the wound worsens.