Post-surgery rehabilitation

Also called: Post-operative physiotherapy · Rehab after joint replacement

After orthopaedic surgery — knee or hip replacement, ligament reconstruction, fracture fixation or spine surgery — the operation is only half the outcome. Structured rehabilitation is what restores strength, movement and confidence, and home-visit physiotherapy makes the early weeks far easier.

Typical course: 12–24 sessions, following your surgeon's protocol — your physio confirms your personal plan after the first assessment.

Common signs

Post-operative stiffness, swelling and weakness
Difficulty walking, climbing stairs or returning to work
Fear of moving the operated limb

Common causes

Knee or hip replacement
ACL and other ligament reconstructions
Fracture fixation
Spinal surgery

How physiotherapy helps

Following your surgeon's protocol at the right pace — neither rushed nor delayed
Restoring range of movement before stiffness sets in
Progressive strengthening and gait retraining
Home visits in the early phase when travel is hardest

See a doctor first if…

Calf pain, swelling or breathlessness after surgery — emergency
Wound redness, discharge or fever
Sudden severe pain or loss of function in the operated area

Get a personalised assessment

A guide can explain — only an assessment can tell you what applies to you. Every physio on PhysioDekho is credential-verified.

Find a physiotherapist near you

This guide is general education, not medical advice, and is no substitute for assessment by a qualified professional. If any warning sign above applies to you, contact a doctor before starting physiotherapy. Full medical disclaimer.