Pre and post surgery rehabilitation
Pre and Post Surgery Physiotherapy in Brookvale
Preparing for surgery or recovering from an operation? Physiotherapy before surgery helps build strength, mobility and physical capacity so you are better prepared for your procedure. After surgery, we provide structured rehabilitation in line with your surgeon’s protocol to restore movement, strength and function.
From joint replacements and ligament reconstructions to shoulder surgery, our progressive rehabilitation programs help you return to work, sport and everyday activities.
- Brookvale4/42-46 Wattle Road, Brookvale NSW 2100
- Terrey Hills · Wednesdays17 Yulong Avenue, Terrey Hills NSW 2084
- No referral required
- Follows your surgeon’s protocol
- Rehabilitation gym in Brookvale
Surgery we commonly see
Rehabilitation for joint, ligament and shoulder surgery
Knee replacement
Build strength and improve knee movement before surgery, then progressively restore walking, stair climbing, balance and everyday function afterwards.
Hip replacement
Prepare your hip and surrounding muscles for surgery, then rebuild strength, balance and walking ability to help you return to everyday activities.
ACL reconstruction
Progressive rehabilitation from early recovery through to running and sport-specific activities, with strength and functional testing to guide each stage of your return to sport.
Shoulder surgery
Rotator cuff repair and shoulder stabilisation. Guided rehabilitation following surgery, initially focusing on movement within your surgeon’s restrictions before progressively restoring shoulder mobility, strength and function.
We also see ankle, foot and spinal surgery, once your surgeon has cleared you to start rehabilitation.
How rehabilitation works
Three stages, from preparing for surgery to returning to full function
Stage 1
Prehabilitation
An initial assessment followed by targeted strength and movement exercises to prepare your body for surgery and help you start recovery from a stronger position.
Stage 2
Early recovery
Managing pain and swelling, restoring safe movement and beginning rehabilitation in line with your surgeon’s protocol and restrictions.
Stage 3
Progressive strengthening
Building strength, balance and function through progressive exercise and rehabilitation, with clear milestones to guide your return to work, sport and everyday activities.
Your first appointment
- What happens. We’ll discuss your surgery, goals and any rehabilitation instructions from your surgeon, followed by an assessment of your movement, strength and current function.
- How long. 60 minutes at Brookvale and 45 minutes at Terrey Hills. Follow up appointments are 30 minutes.
- What to bring. Your surgeon’s rehabilitation protocol or discharge letter, any relevant scan reports and comfortable clothing.
Facilities
Rehabilitation beyond the treatment room
Our Brookvale clinic has a dedicated gym, allowing you to progress your post-surgical rehabilitation under the guidance of your physiotherapist, both in the clinic and at home.
Brookvale
On-site gym
Access to strength training equipment, with your physiotherapist supervising, guiding and progressing your exercises throughout recovery.
Brookvale
Strength and functional testing
We measure your progress throughout rehabilitation using objective testing to guide your recovery and help determine when you’re ready to return to higher levels of activity or sport.
Brookvale and Terrey Hills
Hands on treatment
Manual therapy and other hands-on techniques where appropriate to help manage pain and improve movement, alongside your individualised exercise program.
Your physiotherapist
Emma Docker
Physiotherapist · Master of Physiotherapy · Registered with AHPRA
Emma has a Master of Physiotherapy and a particular interest in rehabilitation after surgery, including ACL reconstruction and joint replacement.
FAQs
Pre and post surgery FAQs
When should I start before surgery?
The earlier the better, as it gives you more time to build strength and prepare for surgery. However, it’s never too late to benefit from pre-surgery physiotherapy, even if your operation is just around the corner.
When can I start after surgery?
When your surgeon says rehabilitation can begin. This is often within the first week or two, but it depends on your operation.
Will you follow my surgeon’s protocol?
Yes. Your rehabilitation is guided by your surgeon’s protocol, and we communicate with your surgeon and provide updates on your progress where needed.
How long does rehabilitation take?
Recovery depends on the type of surgery, your individual progress and your goals. Many orthopaedic procedures require several months of rehabilitation, with more complex surgeries such as ACL reconstruction often taking 9 to 12 months before returning to sport. Your physiotherapist will outline your expected recovery timeline and rehabilitation plan at your first appointment.
Do I need a referral?
Not for a private appointment. You only need one to claim a Medicare rebate.
Can I claim through private health insurance?
Yes. Physiotherapy is claimable on most extras policies, depending on your cover, and you can claim on the spot with HICAPS.
Related care
You may also be interested in
Clinical Pilates
Run by our physiotherapist, to keep building strength after rehabilitation.