After surgery, the instructions can feel like a lot to manage: exercises, wound care, movement restrictions, medicines and follow-up appointments. The most useful rehabilitation plan starts with what your surgical team has actually instructed.
Your operation determines the boundaries
Different procedures have different recovery requirements. Follow the discharge instructions and ask your surgical team when rehabilitation should start, what movement or weight-bearing limits apply and who to contact with concerns. The NHS recovery guide explains why home care and activity advice need to follow the operation and treating team’s instructions.
Do not wait for physio if a complication is possible
Contact your surgical team promptly for wound changes, fever or unexpected worsening. A painful, red or swollen leg needs immediate medical assessment. Call 000 for chest pain or difficulty breathing. Healthdirect explains blood-clot warning signs. A routine rehabilitation visit is not a substitute for urgent care.
Bring the documents that make care specific
- The operation name and date.
- Your discharge summary and surgeon’s rehabilitation instructions.
- Current movement and weight-bearing restrictions.
- Your medicines, walking aids and existing exercise plan.
- The next surgical review date and contact details.
Tell reception which operation you have had so we can confirm that the appointment and practitioner are appropriate before you travel.
Agree on the first practical goal
You might want to manage stairs, dress independently or return to work. Ask how that goal fits the current stage of recovery, what you can practise at home and what response should prompt contact with the treating team.
Progression should follow your individual findings and surgical instructions. A generic timetable cannot clear you to drive, lift, run or return to sport. Ask who will make those decisions and what evidence they will use.
Book an assessment for your next step
Enhanced Physio offers a free initial physiotherapy assessment at Runcorn or Southport, in person or by telehealth. Later treatment and other services may have different fees. Tell us your main concern when booking so we can help you choose the appropriate appointment.
View physiotherapy and booking options, or call 1300 833 866. If your symptoms need urgent medical care, use that service first.
A guide from Enhanced Physio, 2 November 2026. General information, not a diagnosis or individual treatment plan.