Surgery is often a necessary step to treat injuries or conditions, but the real work begins after the operation. Whether it’s an ACL reconstruction, rotator cuff repair, or a hip replacement, regaining strength and mobility is crucial to ensure the best possible outcome. Post-operative physiotherapy is the cornerstone of this recovery process.

One of the most important roles of physiotherapy after surgery is to rebuild strength. Surgery can leave muscles weakened and joints stiff, which makes it difficult to perform even the most basic movements. Post-operative physiotherapy helps target these areas, using progressive exercises and manual techniques to regain strength safely and effectively.

Here’s how physiotherapy helps rebuild strength after surgery:

1. Early Mobilisation
   The first stage of physiotherapy focuses on getting you moving again as soon as possible. Early mobilisation is key to preventing muscle atrophy and joint stiffness, which can slow down recovery. Your physiotherapist will guide you through gentle exercises that stimulate blood flow, reduce swelling, and encourage healing.

2. Targeted Strengthening Exercises
   Once the initial recovery phase has passed, physiotherapists introduce strengthening exercises that focus on rebuilding the muscles surrounding the surgical site. These exercises are progressive, starting with low-resistance movements and gradually increasing in intensity to restore strength over time.

3. Improving Joint Mobility
   Surgical procedures often limit joint mobility, but physiotherapy helps restore it through a series of targeted stretches and manual therapy techniques. These movements improve flexibility and reduce stiffness, enabling you to regain full range of motion.

4. Correcting Muscle Imbalances
   After surgery, the body compensates for weakened muscles by overusing others, which can lead to imbalances. Physiotherapists assess your movement patterns and introduce corrective exercises to restore balance, helping you avoid strain on healthy joints and muscles.

5. Building Confidence
   Regaining strength after surgery isn’t just physical—it’s mental as well. Physiotherapy helps boost your confidence by guiding you through each stage of recovery, ensuring that you feel supported and motivated to continue making progress.

6. Functional Movement Training
   Once strength has been rebuilt, physiotherapists incorporate functional movements that mimic real-life activities. This is crucial for regaining the ability to perform everyday tasks and return to sports or work.

Through consistent and structured physiotherapy, the strength you regain after surgery will not only help you heal but also prevent future injuries. If you’ve recently had surgery or are in the process of recovering, physiotherapy will guide you every step of the way, helping you move confidently and safely toward full recovery.

To book an appointment with Take Control Active Rehab call us on 02 9570 7800 or book online.