We provide same-day physiotherapy appointments for healthcare workers, first responders, and seniors. With over 50 years of combined experience, our team has been delivering high-quality care since 1991. We proudly serve residents of Pitt Meadows, Maple Ridge, Port Coquitlam, Coquitlam, and Langley, helping individuals recover from a wide range of injuries. We are available six days a week to accommodate your needs.
Introduction: The Missing Link in Surgical Recovery
Surgery can be life-changing, whether it’s to repair an injury, relieve chronic pain, or restore mobility. But the success of the procedure depends heavily on what comes next — the rehabilitation process.
That’s where post-surgical physiotherapy (also called post-operative rehab or post-op physio) comes in.
Skipping this critical step can lead to:
Slower healing
On the other hand, a tailored post-surgical recovery program can help you return to your normal life faster, stronger, and with better long-term outcomes.
What is Post-Surgical Physiotherapy?
Post-surgical physiotherapy is a structured rehabilitation program designed to:
Restore mobility
Rebuild muscle strength
Improve joint flexibility
Reduce post-operative pain
Prevent complications
It’s more than “just exercise.” It combines manual therapy, targeted exercises, pain management techniques, and patient education for a complete recovery.
Why Post-Surgical Physiotherapy Matters
After surgery, your body goes through:
Inflammation phase – swelling and soreness are common.
Repair phase – tissues start healing but are still fragile.
Remodeling phase – the body strengthens repaired tissue for normal function.
Without physiotherapy:
Scar tissue can become rigid
Muscles can atrophy (weaken)
Joints can lose range of motion
Chronic pain may develop
Physio bridges the gap between surgery and full recovery, ensuring healing is safe, efficient, and lasting.
Common Surgeries That Need Post-Operative Rehab
Some surgeries benefit especially from physiotherapy:
Orthopedic Surgeries
Total knee replacement
Hip replacement
ACL reconstruction
Rotator cuff repair
Spinal Surgeries
Laminectomy
Spinal fusion
Discectomy
Cardiac Surgeries
Coronary artery bypass graft (CABG)
Valve replacement
Abdominal Surgeries
Hernia repair
Cesarean section
Plastic & Reconstructive Surgeries
Breast reconstruction
Skin graft procedures
Phases of Post-Surgical Physiotherapy
Phase 1: Immediate Post-Operative Phase (Days 1–7)
Goals: Reduce pain and swelling, protect surgical site
Methods: Ice therapy, gentle breathing exercises, bed mobility training
Example Exercise: Ankle pumps to prevent blood clots
Phase 2: Early Recovery (Weeks 1–4)
Goals: Regain basic movement, improve circulation
Methods: Light stretching, isometric muscle activation
Example Exercise: Quad sets for knee surgery patients
Phase 3: Strength and Endurance (Weeks 4–12)
Goals: Build muscle strength, restore normal walking patterns
Methods: Resistance band exercises, core stability work
Example Exercise: Bridging for spine or hip surgeries
Phase 4: Advanced Rehabilitation (Months 3–6)
Goals: Return to sport, work, or heavy activity
Methods: Plyometrics, balance training, sport-specific drills
Post-Surgical Physiotherapy Techniques
Hands-on mobilization to restore joint movement and reduce stiffness.
Strength, balance, flexibility, and endurance training tailored to the patient.
Pain and swelling control using TENS, ultrasound, or IFC.
Water-based rehab to ease movement in low-impact environments.
Scar Tissue Mobilization
Massage techniques to keep scar tissue flexible and functional.
Evidence-Based Benefits
Research shows that patients who complete post-surgical physio:
Recover 30% faster on average
Have less post-operative pain
Are less likely to need revision surgery
Regain better long-term function
(Source: Mayo Clinic – Physical Therapy Benefits)
Case Study: Knee Replacement Success
John, age 64, underwent a total knee replacement. Within 24 hours, his physiotherapist:
Guided him through bed-to-chair transfers
Started gentle bending and straightening exercises
Introduced walking with a walker
By week 6:
John was walking without assistance
His knee flexion improved to 120°
Pain was minimal, and he was back to gardening
Lesson: Early, consistent post-op physiotherapy leads to faster, better results.
Tips for a Successful Recovery
Follow your physio’s plan — skipping sessions slows healing
Be patient — overdoing it can cause setbacks
Eat protein-rich foods for muscle repair
Stay hydrated to support circulation
Track your progress to stay motivated
Common Myths About Post-Operative Rehab
Myth 1: “I should rest completely after surgery.”
Truth: Too much rest causes stiffness; controlled movement aids healing.
Myth 2: “Physio is painful.”
Truth: Some discomfort is normal, but it should never cause sharp pain.
Myth 3: “Once I feel better, I can stop physio.”
Truth: Stopping too early can lead to incomplete recovery.
How Long Will I Need Post-Surgical Physio?
Minor surgeries: 4–6 weeks
Joint replacements: 3–6 months
Complex surgeries: Up to 12 months
Factors influencing timeline:
Age
Pre-surgery health
Surgery type and complexity
FAQs About Post-Surgical Physiotherapy
Q1: Can I start physio the day after surgery?
Often yes — with surgeon approval, early movement helps prevent complications.
Q2: Is post-op physio covered by insurance?
Many plans cover it; check your policy or ask your provider.
Q3: Can I do all exercises at home?
Home exercise is important but should complement supervised sessions.
Q4: What happens if I skip therapy sessions?
You risk stiffness, weakness, slower healing, and reduced long-term function.
External resource suggestions:
Canadian Physiotherapy Association – Post-Operative Care
Conclusion: Take Control of Your Recovery
Post-surgical physiotherapy is more than rehab — it’s your path back to living fully. With the right post-surgical recovery program, you can reduce pain, restore movement, and regain independence.