Pre & Post Surgical Rehab
Surgeons routinely refer post-surgical patients to our physiotherapists to help them recover strength, function and mobility.
Our therapists provide one-on-one, evidence-based Physio therapy treatment sessions to help facilitate your recovery and return to activities of daily living (ADLs), work, recreational activities and even competitive sports.
The rehabilitative process depends on the injury and type of surgery. We help patients recover and rehabilitate from a variety of orthopedic post-operative procedures, including:
- Knee, hip and shoulder joint replacements
- Reconstruction of any one or more of the four major knee ligaments: anterior cruciate ligament (ACL), medial collateral ligament (MCL), posterior cruciate ligament (PCL), and lateral collateral ligament (LCL)
- Arthroscopic knee surgeries (such as meniscectomies, meniscal repairs)
- Ligament and tendon repair, including Achilles tendon repairs
- Arthroscopic hip surgeries (such as labral repairs)
- Nerve releases (such as cubital tunnel, radial tunnel, carpal tunnel, tarsal tunnel)
- Neck and back surgery (such as fusions, laminectomy, decompression and discectomy)
- Nerve compression release
- Bone or joint fusion (arthrodesis)
- Tendon transfers
- Surgical fixation of fractures, including open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF), a two-part surgery used to fix broken bones where the broken bone is reduced (put back into place) and an internal fixation device is placed on the bone (e.g., screws, plates, rods or pins) to hold the bone together
- Shoulder post-surgical recovery for rotator cuff tears, labral tears, superior labrum anterior and posterior (SLAP) tear or lesion, arthroscopy and more
Some of the therapies used to accomplish the goal of regaining movement and reducing pain, swelling and stiffness may include one or more of the following:
- Manual therapy
- Soft tissue and/or joint mobilization
- Be Activated muscle activations
- Gait and balance training
- Ultrasound / Interferential / TENS
- Therapeutic exercise and functional strength training
- Deep Oscillation
- Functional re-education
- Rehabilitation exercises to help increase strength, endurance, motion, balance and coordination
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I start physiotherapy after surgery?
This depends on the type of surgery and your surgeon’s recommendations. In many cases, rehabilitation can begin within a few days after surgery. We will work closely with your surgeon’s protocol to ensure a safe and effective recovery.
Do I need a referral from my surgeon?
A referral is not always required to start physiotherapy in South Africa. However, many surgeons do refer patients with specific rehabilitation protocols, and some medical aids may request a referral for claims.
How long will my rehabilitation take?
Recovery time varies depending on the type of surgery, your overall health, and your goals. Some patients recover within a few weeks, while others may require several months of structured rehabilitation.
Will rehabilitation be painful?
You may experience some discomfort during rehabilitation, especially in the early stages. However, treatment is carefully guided to ensure it remains safe and manageable, while still progressing your recovery.
Will my medical aid cover post-surgical physiotherapy?
Most South African medical aids provide cover for post-surgical physiotherapy, but benefits depend on your specific plan. We recommend confirming your available benefits with your provider before starting treatment.