Surgery addresses the structural problem. Rehabilitation is what restores function, rebuilds strength, and gets you back to the activities that matter. Without a structured post-operative physio program, many patients plateau well below their potential or develop compensatory patterns that cause problems down the track.
At Far North Physiotherapy, we work with patients recovering from joint replacements, ligament reconstructions, and a range of other procedures. We follow your surgeon’s protocol and progress your program at the right pace for your recovery.
We work with patients following a wide range of procedures, including:
Total and partial knee replacements require a structured rehabilitation program to restore range of motion, rebuild quadriceps and hamstring strength, and return to confident daily function. The first six weeks are critical for establishing movement and preventing stiffness. We work through each phase of recovery in line with your surgeon’s protocol.
Hip replacement rehab focuses on restoring safe movement, building glute and hip strength, and progressing weight-bearing activity within post-operative precautions. We tailor the program to your procedure type and work toward restoring full function for daily life and, where appropriate, sport and activity.
ACL reconstruction rehabilitation is one of the most demanding in sport. A full return-to-sport program takes nine to twelve months and must progress through clearly defined phases covering early movement, strength rebuilding, neuromuscular control, running, and sport-specific load. Returning too early is the primary cause of re-rupture.
Rotator cuff repairs, labral reconstructions, AC joint stabilisations, and shoulder replacements all require progressive rehabilitation tailored to the procedure. Shoulder post-operative rehab requires careful progression of range of motion and load to protect the repair while rebuilding strength and function.
Post-operative physiotherapy after spinal procedures including discectomy, spinal fusion, and decompression surgery helps restore movement, build core stability, and manage the transition back to daily activity and work. Programs are individually tailored based on the procedure and surgeon’s guidance.
We also provide rehabilitation following ankle reconstructions, tendon repairs, and other orthopaedic and soft tissue procedures. If you’ve had surgery and need structured rehabilitation, contact us and we can discuss your situation.
Recovery timelines vary depending on the procedure, but most surgical rehabilitation follows a phased progression. Here’s a general picture:
Protecting the repair, managing swelling and pain, restoring range of motion within precautions, and beginning early movement. Weight-bearing and loading are introduced gradually based on surgical guidelines.
Progressive strengthening of the surrounding muscles, improvement in movement quality, and building tolerance to functional daily tasks. Gait normalisation for lower limb procedures. Return to light activity where appropriate.
Sport-specific loading, return to recreational activity, and for surgical procedures like ACL reconstruction, formal return-to-sport testing. The endpoint depends on the procedure and your goals. We work toward whatever return to function looks like for you.
Post-surgical physiotherapy is covered by most private health funds under physiotherapy extras. DVA card holders are also eligible for physiotherapy services. Patients referred by a GP under a chronic disease management plan may be eligible for Medicare-rebated sessions.
If you’ve had surgery and are unsure about your cover, contact us before your first appointment and we can help you work through your options.
Every post-operative program starts with a clear understanding of the procedure, the surgeon’s protocol, and your personal recovery goals.
01
Your first appointment covers the procedure, your current mobility and strength, any precautions or restrictions from your surgeon, and what you’re working toward. We build your program from there.
02
Manual therapy, soft tissue work, and joint mobilisation to support recovery of movement and reduce stiffness, alongside progressive exercise.
03
You’ll know your phases, your milestones, and your realistic timeline from the first appointment. We communicate with your surgeon or GP where needed.
04
Progressive loading through each phase, building toward your goals, whether that’s returning to daily activity, sport, or work.
Far North Physio is a Cairns-based physiotherapy clinic with a strong background in post-operative rehabilitation and musculoskeletal care. Our physios work regularly with patients referred from orthopaedic surgeons and GPs across the Cairns region.
Physiotherapist
Physiotherapist
Physiotherapist
For many procedures, physiotherapy begins within the first few days to weeks following surgery. The timing depends on the procedure and your surgeon’s protocol. In some cases, particularly for joint replacements, early mobilisation is encouraged and physio begins before discharge from hospital. Contact us as soon as you have a surgery date and we can plan your rehabilitation around your expected recovery timeline.
No. You can book directly without a GP referral. If you’re coming under a GP management plan, WorkCover, or DVA, contact us and we’ll advise on the process for each.
If your surgeon has provided a post-operative protocol or discharge instructions, bring those along. Any imaging reports or surgical notes are also useful. If you don’t have these, don’t worry, we can work from your history and get in touch with your surgeon if needed.
It depends on the procedure. Knee and hip replacements typically involve an active rehabilitation program for three to six months. ACL reconstruction takes nine to twelve months for a full return to sport. Shoulder procedures vary depending on the type of surgery. After your assessment, we’ll give you a realistic timeline specific to your situation.
Yes. We’re happy to liaise with your surgeon or GP as part of your care. If there are specific protocol requirements or questions that come up during your rehabilitation, we’ll communicate directly where appropriate.
The sooner you start structured rehabilitation after surgery, the better your outcome. Book your post-surgery assessment and leave with a clear program and a realistic recovery timeline.
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