Written by: Nerissa D’Mello, MSc. Physiotherapy
Recovering from surgery can be a long and frustrating process; however, it does not have to be. Physiotherapy plays a vital role in helping people regain strength, mobility, and function after a wide range of surgical procedures. From orthopedic surgeries such as ACL reconstructions or hip/knee replacements, to breast cancer surgeries and prolonged ICU stays, physiotherapists use targeted strategies to optimise recovery and reduce the risk of complications.
Starting Early Makes a Difference
Post-surgical physiotherapy typically starts early, usually within hours after the procedure or the next day following the surgery. This is particularly important in preventing issues such as joint stiffness, muscle atrophy, and respiratory complications. For example, after a knee replacement, physiotherapy begins almost immediately with gentle range-of-motion exercises, focusing on bending and straightening out the knee. Eventually, this is followed by strengthening other muscle groups, such as the glutes, ambulating, and working on achieving activities of daily living (ADLs).
Rocha et al. (2017) identified early mobilisation as one of the predominant strategies to decrease hospital stay, reduce the risk of mortality, and improve quality of life. One of our patients, a 68-year-old avid golfer, started physiotherapy the day after his knee replacement. Within six weeks, he was back to walking the golf course, which was something he thought would take at least half a year to do without pain. His rehab focused on progressive strength work, balance retraining, and pain management.
Similarly, after shoulder surgery such as a rotator cuff repair, the early phases of rehab often involve passive movement and pain relief techniques, gradually progressing to active exercises and functional retraining. An office worker we treated following a cuff tear initially struggled with sleep and work due to pain and poor mobility. With a clear rehabilitation plan tailored to her goals, she regained full shoulder strength and returned to recreational sport within five months.
More Than Just Exercise
The importance of exercise should not be downplayed; however, physiotherapy is so much more than exercise. It also involves education, manual therapy, utilising modalities such as shockwave and dry needling, and advice on pacing and returning to activity safely. Post-surgical complications like swelling, scar adhesions, and compensatory movement patterns can be addressed early through hands-on physiotherapy treatment and movement re-education. Additionally, an open line of communication between the physiotherapist, surgeon, and the patient is essential for ensuring that the surgical plan is followed to avoid mistakes (Ai et al., 2024).
Research points to innumerable benefits of physiotherapy in the post-operative space; however, implementing a pre-operative rehab program is just as important as it can improve musculoskeletal outcomes in preparation for a physical stressor (Carli et al., 2010). A systematic search by Giesche et al. (2020) suggests that there is a positive impact of muscle control and co-contraction exercises with quadricep strengthening in the pre-operative phase that can impact post-operative functional performance.
Support the Mind and Body Through Physiotherapy
Physiotherapists can also support mental recovery. After surgery, it’s common for people to feel anxious or disheartened (Artz et al., 2015) as they are initially unable to achieve their ADLs. Having a clear plan, consistent support, and milestones to work toward can improve motivation and confidence throughout the rehabilitation process.
The Bottom Line
In conclusion, physiotherapy is an essential component of post-operative care that can improve muscle strength, coordination, balance, and prevent the risk of further complications (Kehlet & Wilmore, 2022). If you’ve recently had surgery or are preparing for one, getting in touch with a physiotherapist early on can make a big difference in your outcome. With the right guidance, recovery does not have to be a waiting game.
At Quay Health, our experienced physiotherapists in Sydney CBD are here to support you through every stage of your post-surgical rehab – from your first steps to full recovery. Book your consultation today and take the first step toward a smoother, stronger recovery.
References
Ai, S. Z., Hussain, S., Alam, S. I., Hussain, Y., Ashraf, M., & Ali, N. (2024). Investigating the relationship between surgical team communication and patient outcomes. Biological and Clinical Sciences Research Journal, 2024(1), Article 1154.
Artz, N., Elvers, K. T., Lowe, C. M., Sackley, C. M., Jepson, P., & Beswick, A. D. (2015). Effectiveness of physiotherapy interventions for older adults with hip fractures: A systematic review and meta-analysis. BMJ Open, 5(2), e006577.
Carli, F., Charlebois, P., Stein, B., Feldman, L. S., Zavorsky, G., Kim, D. J., Scott, S., & Mayo, N. E. (2010). Randomized clinical trial of prehabilitation in colorectal surgery. British Journal of Surgery, 97(8), 1187–1197.
Giesche, F., Niederer, D., Banzer, W., & Vogt, L. (2020). Evidence for the effects of prehabilitation before ACL-reconstruction on return to sport-related and self-reported knee function: A systematic review. PLOS ONE, 15(10), e0240192.
He, Q., Zhang, Y., Yin, L., et al. (2023). Early rehabilitation after orthopedic surgery: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Journal of Rehabilitation Medicine, 55(3), jrm00322.
Kehlet, H., & Wilmore, D. W. (2022). Evidence-based ERAS protocols and the role of physiotherapy. British Journal of Surgery, 109(5), 399–405.
Rocha, A. R. M., da Silva, R. A., da Silva, V. Z. M., & de Souza, M. L. (2017). Early mobilization: Why, what for and how? Medicina Intensiva, 41(7), 429–436.
