What to Expect From Physiotherapy After Surgery

If you've had or are about to have orthopaedic surgery, such as a joint replacement or ligament repair, physiotherapy is usually a key part of getting back to normal. Most surgical teams now encourage getting moving again sooner rather than long periods of bed rest, since this is linked to fewer complications and a faster return of function. This approach, often called enhanced recovery, is now standard practice across most NHS and private hospitals.

Some swelling, stiffness and discomfort in the days and weeks after surgery is completely normal. What isn't normal, and should be flagged to your surgical team promptly, includes redness that's spreading, a fever, new swelling or pain in the calf, or a wound that isn't healing as expected.

Physio after surgery typically follows a graded programme, building movement and strength week by week in line with your surgeon's specific protocol, and adjusted to how you're actually healing rather than a fixed timetable.

Recovery times vary a lot depending on the surgery itself and your surgeon's guidance, so always follow their instructions alongside anything we recommend. If you've got surgery coming up or you're a few weeks post-op and want a proper rehab plan, get in touch and we'll go from there.