When is Physiotherapy Recommended After Knee Surgery?
- Published on
- Kurt Johnson
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The Importance of Post-Surgical Physiotherapy
Recovering from knee surgery requires a structured rehabilitation plan to restore mobility, strength, and function. Whether you’ve had an ACL reconstruction, total knee replacement, meniscus repair, or patellar realignment, knee physiotherapy plays a crucial role in ensuring a full recovery.
Post-surgical physiotherapy helps reduce pain, prevent complications, and accelerate healing. Research shows that patients who start rehabilitation early regain mobility 30% faster than those who delay treatment (source).
In this article, we outline the optimal timeline for starting physiotherapy, the stages of rehabilitation, and how expert physiotherapy techniques can help you recover efficiently.
Timeline of Recovery: When to Start Physiotherapy After Knee Surgery
Immediate Post-Surgery Phase (Day 1-2)
- Physiotherapy often begins within 24–48 hours post-surgery.
- Focus on reducing swelling, improving circulation, and preventing joint stiffness.
- Gentle range of motion (ROM) exercises are introduced to maintain knee flexibility.
Early Rehabilitation Phase (Weeks 1-4)
- Controlled weight-bearing exercises to reintroduce movement.
- Manual therapy to reduce scar tissue formation and improve circulation.
- Isometric strengthening exercises to maintain muscle activation without straining the knee.
Strengthening Phase (Weeks 5-12)
- Gradual strength training for quadriceps, hamstrings, and glutes.
- Balance and proprioception exercises to enhance knee stability.
- Gait training to correct walking patterns and prevent compensatory injuries.
Return-to-Activity Phase (Months 3-6)
- Sport-specific drills for athletes resuming high-impact activities.
- Plyometric exercises to rebuild power and agility.
- Full return to daily activities and recreational sports.
Stages of Rehabilitation: Early Mobilisation, Strength Rebuilding, Return to Activity
1. Early Mobilisation: Preventing Stiffness and Swelling
- Gentle knee flexion and extension exercises.
- Compression therapy to control swelling.
- Hydrotherapy or assisted movement therapy for low-impact rehabilitation.
2. Strength Rebuilding: Regaining Stability and Function
- Progressive resistance training using body weight, resistance bands, and gym equipment.
- Glute and core activation exercises to support knee mechanics.
- Functional movement training to improve stability in daily activities.
3. Return to Activity: Restoring Full Function and Performance
- Jumping, cutting, and agility drills for athletes.
- Running reintroduction programmes for high-impact sports.
- Workplace ergonomics assessments for corporate professionals recovering from knee surgery.
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How Physiotherapy Speeds Up Healing: Evidence-Based Rehabilitation Techniques
1. Manual Therapy & Joint Mobilisation
- Improves joint flexibility and range of motion.
- Reduces post-surgical scar tissue build-up.
2. Soft Tissue Therapy & Myofascial Release
- Releases muscle tension and improves circulation.
- Enhances lymphatic drainage to reduce swelling.
3. Strength & Functional Training
- Helps rebuild muscle strength and endurance.
- Prevents muscle imbalances and future injuries.
4. Gait and Posture Correction
- Ensures proper walking mechanics post-surgery.
- Reduces compensatory strain on other joints.
Book Post-Surgical Physiotherapy Sessions for Optimal Recovery
If you’ve undergone knee surgery, professional physiotherapy is essential to ensure a safe and effective recovery. At One Body LDN, we provide specialist post-surgical rehabilitation programmes tailored to your needs.
👉 Book your post-surgery knee physiotherapy session today and take the next step towards full recovery.
Knee Pain Treatment FAQs
When should I start physiotherapy after knee surgery?
Physiotherapy should ideally begin within 24-48 hours post-surgery to prevent stiffness and aid recovery.
How long does post-surgical knee rehabilitation take?
Recovery timelines vary, but most patients achieve significant progress within 3-6 months.
Can physiotherapy help me avoid complications after knee surgery?
Yes, structured physiotherapy reduces the risk of stiffness, muscle atrophy, and compensatory injuries.
Is post-surgical physiotherapy covered by private health insurance?
Yes, insurers such as Bupa, AXA PPP, Cigna, WPA, and Healix cover post-surgical rehabilitation.
How can I book a knee pain appointment in London?
Simply book online or call our clinic for a consultation with a specialist knee physiotherapist.
(Disclaimer: The information in this post is for educational purposes only and does not replace personalised medical advice. Always consult a qualified professional for specific guidance on diagnosis and treatment.)
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