Post-Surgical Rehab

Surgery fixes the structure. Rehab is what gives you back the movement, the strength and the confidence to use it. Whether you are recovering from a joint replacement, a repair or a reconstruction, our physiotherapists guide you through it step by step, at a pace that respects both your surgeon’s protocol and how your body is actually responding.

What post-surgical rehab involves

Post-operative physiotherapy is structured recovery. In the early stages the focus is on protecting the repair, managing swelling and restoring gentle range of motion. As healing allows, we build strength, then control, then the specific tasks you need for daily life, work or sport.

We work within the protocol your surgeon has set, and we watch how you respond week to week. Two people with the same operation rarely recover on the same schedule, and the plan should reflect that.

Surgeries we commonly support

• Knee replacement and partial knee replacement
• Hip replacement
• ACL reconstruction and other knee ligament repairs
• Meniscus surgery and knee arthroscopy
• Rotator cuff repair and shoulder stabilisation
• Shoulder replacement
• Achilles tendon repair
• Ankle and foot surgery, including fracture fixation
• Fracture recovery once you are cleared to move
• Spinal surgery, including discectomy and fusion
• Hand and wrist surgery

When should rehab start?

Earlier than most people expect. Many surgeons want physiotherapy underway within days to a couple of weeks after the procedure, and the early work is often gentle: swelling control, safe movement, protecting the repair and getting you comfortable moving around your home.

If you have surgery coming up, it is worth booking an appointment before the date. Going in stronger, and knowing what the first few weeks will look like, makes the recovery smoother. Bring any protocol or instructions your surgeon gave you to your first visit and we will build the plan around it.

Swelling after surgery

Swelling is one of the most common frustrations after an operation, and it can slow down everything else. Alongside your rehab we also offer manual lymph drainage and complete decongestive therapy with a certified therapist, which can help manage post-surgical swelling while you work through the rest of your recovery. If swelling is holding you back, mention it and we will talk you through whether it would help.

What to expect at your first visit

We start with your surgical details, your protocol if you have one, and an honest look at where you are right now: range of motion, swelling, strength, how you are moving and what is limiting you day to day.

From there you get a plan with clear stages and realistic timelines, plus a home program you can actually manage. Recovery from surgery is a long game, and most of the progress happens between appointments. We will tell you plainly what is normal and what is worth calling about.

Why book post-surgical rehab at Radius

You see the same physiotherapist throughout, which matters in a recovery that runs for months. Someone who saw you at week two can tell whether week ten is on track. We also keep our appointments unhurried, because early post-op work needs hands-on time and explanation, not a quick check-in.

Massage therapy, dry needling and acupuncture are available in the same clinic if they will help with the stiffness and compensation that often come with a long recovery.

Coverage and billing

No referral is needed to book physiotherapy in Nova Scotia, though it helps to bring any post-operative instructions from your surgeon. Physiotherapy is covered under most extended health plans, and we direct bill most insurance companies. Post-surgical rehab often uses a meaningful part of your annual coverage, so it is worth checking your limits early. We also treat injuries covered by motor vehicle accident and workplace claims. If you are not sure where you stand, call us and we will help you check.

Common questions

Do I need a referral from my surgeon? No. You can book directly with us. Bring any protocol or instructions you were given so we can follow them.

How long will rehab take? It depends on the surgery. A knee replacement and a rotator cuff repair follow very different timelines. You will get a realistic estimate at your first visit.

Should I start before my surgery? If you can, yes. Going into surgery with better strength and range of motion tends to make the recovery easier.

Will it hurt? Early rehab can be uncomfortable, but it should never feel like you are damaging anything. We work within what your tissue can handle and explain what you should be feeling.

Start your recovery with a plan

Book a physiotherapy appointment online in a few clicks, or call us at 902-864-4555. Surgery coming up? Book before the date and go in prepared.