Post-Operative Physiotherapy
Structured rehabilitation after orthopaedic surgery — respecting your surgeon's protocols while rebuilding strength, range and confidence.
Overview
About our post-operative physio service
Surgery fixes the structural problem; physiotherapy determines how well you recover from it. Post-operative physiotherapy at Evolve guides you through each phase of healing — from protecting the repair in the early weeks to regaining full range, strength and function for work, sport and daily life.
We regularly rehabilitate patients after ACL reconstruction, rotator cuff repair, shoulder stabilisation, knee and hip arthroscopy, joint replacement, spinal procedures and fracture fixation. Bring your surgeon's post-op instructions and operation report — we build your program around their timelines, not a generic template.
Our Cabramatta clinic serves post-surgical patients from Liverpool, Fairfield, Bankstown, Campbelltown and across Southwest Sydney. Funding pathways include private health extras, Medicare CDM/EPC (with GP referral), WorkCover when surgery is work-related, DVA and NDIS for eligible participants.
Why choose Evolve
What you can expect
Surgeon-aligned protocols
We work within your surgeon's restrictions — weight-bearing status, range limits and milestones — and communicate progress when reports are needed.
Phase-based rehab
Early protection → range restoration → strength → return to function. Each phase has clear criteria before progressing so you do not rush ahead and risk setbacks.
Hands-on where it counts
Scar management, joint mobilisation and soft-tissue work to address stiffness — especially critical after knee and shoulder surgery.
Return-to-sport testing
For athletes, we use objective strength and hop tests before clearing return to training — not just "feels fine."
What we treat
Common conditions we help with
- ACL & meniscus surgery
- Rotator cuff & shoulder stabilisation
- Total knee & hip replacement
- Knee & hip arthroscopy
- Spinal surgery rehabilitation
- Fracture fixation recovery
- Labral repair (hip/shoulder)
- Post-op swelling & stiffness management
FAQs
Post-Operative Physio — frequently asked questions
When should I start physio after surgery?
It depends on the procedure. Some surgeries need physio within days; others require a short immobilisation period first. Follow your surgeon's advice — and book your first post-op physio appointment before surgery if possible so you are not waiting weeks for a slot.
Do I need a referral for post-operative physiotherapy?
No referral is needed for private patients. Bring your operation report and post-op instructions. Medicare CDM/EPC plans require a GP referral. WorkCover and DVA have their own referral requirements.
Is post-op physio covered by private health insurance?
Most extras policies cover physiotherapy with an annual limit. We process HICAPS on the spot. Post-surgical rehab often uses several sessions — check your remaining balance before starting.
How long does post-operative rehabilitation take?
Minor arthroscopies may need 6–12 weeks of structured rehab. ACL reconstruction typically requires 9–12 months before return to sport. Joint replacements often need 3–6 months for daily function and up to a year for full strength. Your physio will map a realistic timeline at your first visit.
Can you liaise with my surgeon?
Yes. We send progress reports when requested and flag concerns early — for example unexpected stiffness, swelling or pain that does not fit the expected recovery pattern.
What should I bring to my first post-op appointment?
Your operation report, surgeon's post-op protocol, any imaging, a list of medications, and clothing that allows access to the surgical site. If you use crutches or a brace, bring those too.
Explore our other services
View all physiotherapy services · Physio for Liverpool · Book online
Book your post-operative assessment
Whether you are one week or three months post-surgery, we will meet you where you are and build the right plan forward.
Evolve Physiotherapy & Mastery · Level 1, 156–158 Cabramatta Road East, Cabramatta NSW 2166