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Expert surgical recovery and rehabilitation
Post-operative physiotherapy restores mobility, strength, and function following surgical procedures through progressive exercise protocols, manual therapy, and functional training. Beginning 24-48 hours following surgery once the surgeon provides clearance, early rehabilitation prevents complications, maintains joint mobility, and initiates controlled tissue loading during the healing process.
Rehabilitation protocols follow tissue healing timelines—inflammation phase (0-72 hours), proliferation phase (3 days-6 weeks), and remodeling phase (6 weeks-12 months). Exercise intensity, range of motion targets, and weight-bearing status adjust according to each phase. Our physiotherapists coordinate with surgical teams to obtain operative reports, post-operative restrictions, and weight-bearing protocols.
Understanding Post-Operative Recovery
Tissue healing progresses through distinct phases that guide rehabilitation timing and intensity. The inflammation phase (0-72 hours) involves initial wound healing and pain management. The proliferation phase (3 days-6 weeks) sees new tissue formation and gradual strength restoration. The remodeling phase (6 weeks-12 months) focuses on tissue maturation and functional restoration.
Early mobilization prevents complications including deep vein thrombosis, respiratory issues, and muscle atrophy. Post-operative physiotherapy addresses pain and edema management, maintains joint mobility, prevents secondary complications, and restores physical function. Your physiotherapist works directly with your surgical team to ensure treatment aligns with your specific surgical procedure and recovery timeline.
Early Recovery Focus
The immediate post-operative phase emphasizes pain control, edema reduction, and incision healing. Gentle range of motion exercises maintain joint mobility without stressing healing tissues. Weight-bearing status follows surgeon protocols—ranging from non-weight-bearing to full weight-bearing as tolerated. Early mobilization prevents complications while respecting tissue healing requirements. Your physiotherapist provides clear guidance on activity restrictions and progression criteria at each stage.
Factors Affecting Recovery
Pre-operative fitness level strongly predicts post-operative outcomes. Age, comorbid conditions (diabetes, cardiovascular disease, obesity), smoking status, nutritional status, and psychological factors all influence recovery timelines. Patients engaging in prehabilitation—4-6 weeks of pre-surgery exercise—demonstrate faster recovery, shorter hospital stays, and fewer complications. Our team addresses these factors through coordinated care within our Social Wellness House model.
Common Surgeries We Treat
Our physiotherapists provide specialized post-operative rehabilitation for a wide range of orthopedic and soft-tissue procedures at Revibe's Realign Therapy Clinic.
Total Knee Replacement
Total knee replacement removes damaged cartilage and bone, replacing joint surfaces with metal and plastic components. Post-operative rehabilitation addresses knee flexion range of motion (goal: 0-110 degrees), quadriceps strength restoration, gait pattern normalization, and stair climbing ability. Recovery progresses from walker use and 90-degree flexion in weeks 1-2, to cane use and 100-110 degrees in weeks 3-4, advancing to independent walking and full daily activities by months 3-6.
Recovery timeline:6-12 weeks for basic function, 3-6 months for return to low-impact activities (golf, cycling), 6-12 months for complete recovery including recreational sports.
Total Hip Replacement
Hip replacement removes the damaged femoral head and acetabulum, installing prosthetic components. Surgical approach (posterior, anterior, or lateral) determines specific movement precautions during early recovery. Posterior approach requires avoiding hip flexion beyond 90 degrees, hip adduction past midline, and internal rotation for 6-12 weeks. Treatment focuses on progressive range of motion, hip precaution education, and strength restoration.
Recovery timeline:6-8 weeks for basic mobility with precautions, 3-6 months for return to recreational activities (golf, tennis, cycling), 6-12 months for full recovery and unrestricted functional activities.
ACL Reconstruction
ACL reconstruction uses autograft (patient's own tissue) or allograft (donor tissue) to replace torn ligaments. Graft healing progresses through inflammation (0-2 weeks), revascularization (2-12 weeks), and remodeling (3-12 months) phases. Early goals include achieving full extension (critical), progressive flexion to 120 degrees, and weight-bearing as tolerated. Treatment advances through closed-chain strengthening, plyometric training, and sport-specific drills.
Recovery timeline:3-4 weeks to discontinue crutches, 2-3 months for light jogging, 4-6 months for plyometric training, 9-12 months for return to full sport participation with >90% limb symmetry.
Rotator Cuff Repair
Rotator cuff repair reattaches torn tendons to the humeral head using suture anchors. Small tears (less than 1cm) heal within 6-8 weeks, while large tears (greater than 5cm) require 4-6 months for adequate healing. Treatment begins with passive range of motion only, progressing to active-assisted motion, then active range of motion and progressive resistance training. Overhead sports require full functional recovery before return.
Recovery timeline:4 weeks sling immobilization with passive motion only, 5-8 weeks for active-assisted motion, 3-4 months for light resistance, 6-9 months for return to overhead sports with clearance.
Lumbar Spinal Fusion
Spinal fusion permanently connects two or more vertebrae using bone grafts and hardware (screws, rods, plates). Fusion healing requires 3-6 months before bone creates solid connections between vertebrae. Treatment emphasizes core activation, proper body mechanics, and graduated activity progression. Initial recovery focuses on short frequent walks and log-rolling for bed mobility, advancing to resistance training and maintenance programs.
Recovery timeline:3-6 weeks for basic mobility, 3-6 months for return to light work activities and resistance training, 6-12 months for return to all work activities and unrestricted function with clearance.
Meniscectomy and Meniscus Repair
Arthroscopic meniscus surgery removes damaged cartilage (meniscectomy) or repairs tears using sutures. Partial meniscectomy allows immediate weight-bearing and faster recovery, while meniscus repairs require 6 weeks of protected weight-bearing for healing. Treatment includes immediate range of motion exercises, progressive strengthening, and sport-specific training. Meniscectomy cases typically return to sport in 4-6 weeks, while repairs require 3-4 months.
Recovery timeline:Meniscectomy: 2-4 weeks for normal walking, 4-6 weeks for return to sport. Meniscus repair: 6 weeks protected weight-bearing, 3-4 months for full return to sport.
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Recovery Phase Protocols
Our post-operative rehabilitation follows evidence-based protocols tailored to your specific surgery and healing timeline. Each phase addresses different recovery goals:
Primary goals include pain and edema management, incision healing, and preventing secondary complications. Cryotherapy applications reduce inflammation and pain. Compression garments control edema. Early mobilization exercises include ankle pumps (20 repetitions hourly), quadriceps sets, gluteal sets, and passive range of motion. Weight-bearing status follows surgeon protocols—from non-weight-bearing to full weight-bearing as tolerated. Diaphragmatic breathing exercises prevent respiratory complications during this critical healing phase.
Focus shifts to progressive strengthening and gait training. Tissue healing progresses sufficiently to tolerate increased mechanical loading. Isometric exercises progress to isotonic movements through full available range. Resistance begins with gravity alone, advancing to resistance bands, ankle weights, and machines. Knee extension exercises strengthen quadriceps. Hip abduction and extension activate gluteus muscles. Shoulder surgeries incorporate scapular stabilization. Core stabilization exercises progress from pelvic tilts to planks and bird-dogs. Gait training advances from walker to cane to independent walking.
Advanced strengthening and proprioception training prepare for functional activities. Tissue strength increases sufficiently to tolerate progressive overload at 60-70% of one-repetition maximum for 8-12 repetitions over 2-3 sets. Closed-chain exercises (squats, lunges, step-ups) load joints in functional positions. Open-chain exercises isolate specific muscles. Plyometric exercises prepare for high-impact activities. Balance training progresses from stable to unstable surfaces (foam pads, wobble boards, BOSU balls). Sport-specific balance activities mimic actual movements.
Return to work and sport preparation becomes the primary focus. Exercise specificity increases to match work, sport, or recreational activities. Training incorporates movement patterns, intensities, and durations matching functional goals. Occupational-specific exercises match job demands (lifting, carrying, pushing, pulling). Work conditioning programs gradually increase activity duration and intensity. Sport-specific drills incorporate speed, agility, and complexity. Graduated running programs increase distance and pace systematically. Hop tests and agility tests measure readiness. Limb symmetry index target is 85-90% before unrestricted participation.
Prevention strategies address deep vein thrombosis (DVT) through ankle pumps, early mobilization, compression stockings, and adequate hydration. Surgical site infection prevention includes keeping incisions clean and dry, monitoring for infection signs, and proper hand hygiene. Stiffness prevention requires early range of motion exercises, consistent daily stretching, and manual therapy. Muscle atrophy prevention involves isometric contractions beginning immediately, neuromuscular electrical stimulation, progressive resistance training, and adequate protein intake (1.2-2.0 g/kg body weight daily).
What to Expect: Your Assessment and Treatment
First physiotherapy sessions occur 24-72 hours post-surgery for inpatient procedures or within one week for outpatient surgeries. Your physiotherapist reviews operative reports documenting surgical approach, tissue repairs, and post-operative precautions. The assessment includes incision inspection (without removing dressings), joint range of motion measurement using goniometry, manual muscle testing when appropriate, edema measurement, gait analysis with assistive devices, and pain assessment using numeric rating scales.
Functional tests establish baseline abilities and guide treatment progression. These include sit-to-stand transfers, walking distance and speed assessment, stair climbing ability evaluation, balance assessment, and functional reach tests. Standardized outcome measures quantify recovery—Lower Extremity Functional Scale (LEFS), WOMAC Index for hip/knee conditions, DASH Questionnaire for upper extremity function, and Global Rating of Change tracking patient-perceived improvement.
Treatment programs combine in-clinic sessions with home exercise programs. Session frequency depends on surgery type and recovery phase—typically 2-3 times weekly initially, decreasing as you progress. Home exercises extend benefits between supervised sessions, balancing frequency, variety, and simplicity to promote adherence. Your physiotherapist provides written exercise descriptions with photos or videos, exercise logs, and regular check-ins to support your recovery journey.
The Revibe Difference: Integrated Post-Operative Care
Revibe operates as a Social Wellness House—a full-service lifestyle club combining manual therapy clinic, natural medical office, and thermal spa. This integrated model offers unique advantages for post-operative rehabilitation that accelerate recovery and optimize outcomes.
Coordinated Care: Your physiotherapist collaborates with chiropractors, massage therapists, and naturopathic doctors under one roof. This synergistic approach addresses post-operative recovery from multiple angles simultaneously. Treatment plans may incorporate nutritional support for tissue healing, stress management techniques, and lifestyle modifications alongside physiotherapy protocols. Our team coordinates directly with surgical teams at Trillium Health Partners, Credit Valley Hospital, and other regional facilities for seamless care transitions.
Enhanced Recovery Environment: Access to thermal spa amenities—cold plunge, infrared sauna, and lymphatic drainage boots—supports tissue healing and pain management between physiotherapy sessions. Cold plunge therapy reduces inflammation and accelerates recovery. Infrared sauna promotes circulation and tissue healing. Lymphatic drainage boots reduce post-operative swelling. These wellness optimization tools complement your physiotherapy treatment plan and create an optimal environment for surgical recovery.
Evidence-Based Protocols: Our physiotherapists stay current with surgical rehabilitation research through continuing education in ACL reconstruction rehabilitation, total joint replacement recovery, rotator cuff repair progression, and spinal surgery rehabilitation. Every treatment plan follows evidence-based protocols while remaining flexible to your individual healing response and functional goals. Over 10,000 happy clients and 500+ five-star reviews demonstrate the effectiveness of Revibe's approach to post-operative care.
Treatment Techniques and Modalities
Manual therapy complements exercise interventions through hands-on techniques addressing joint mobility, soft tissue restrictions, and pain. Joint mobilization uses graded movements (I-IV) to reduce pain and increase mobility. Soft tissue mobilization includes massage, myofascial release, and instrument-assisted techniques addressing muscle tightness and fascial restrictions. Scar tissue mobilization begins once incisions heal completely (typically 3-4 weeks), improving tissue mobility and reducing adhesion formation.
Physical modalities support recovery between exercise sessions. Cryotherapy (ice application) reduces tissue temperature, decreasing metabolism, inflammation, and pain perception. Neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES) activates motor nerves preventing atrophy during immobilization. Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) modulates pain through gate control mechanisms. Therapeutic ultrasound delivers sound waves penetrating 2-5cm into tissue, enhancing extensibility before stretching.
Return to Activity Guidelines
Driving requires brake reaction times under 1 second. Clearance timelines: knee replacement 4-6 weeks, hip replacement 6-8 weeks, ACL reconstruction 2-4 weeks, rotator cuff 6-8 weeks, spinal surgery 4-6 weeks. Weight lifting restrictions protect healing tissues with progressive limits based on surgery type. High-impact activities and sports require complete tissue healing, 85% limb symmetry in strength testing, sport-specific skill demonstration, and surgeon/physiotherapist clearance before return.
Virtual Physiotherapy Options
Telerehabilitation delivers physiotherapy services remotely via video conferencing, expanding access for patients with transportation barriers, rural locations, or scheduling constraints. Virtual sessions effectively deliver exercise instruction, monitor home program execution, and track outcome measures. Hybrid models combine in-person and virtual sessions, balancing hands-on care with convenient remote follow-up. Common protocols involve initial in-person assessment, weekly in-person treatments during early phases, transitioning to virtual check-ins during reconditioning phases.
Frequently Asked Questions About Post-Operative Physiotherapy
Begin 24-72 hours after inpatient surgeries or within 1 week for outpatient procedures with surgeon clearance. Early rehabilitation prevents complications and optimizes recovery. Your surgeon will provide specific timing recommendations based on your procedure. Contact us immediately after receiving surgical clearance to schedule your initial assessment and begin your recovery journey.
Duration varies by surgery type: meniscectomy 4-6 weeks, ACL reconstruction 6-9 months, knee/hip replacement 3-6 months, rotator cuff repair 4-6 months, spinal fusion 6-9 months. Individual variation depends on healing rates, pre-operative fitness level, and functional goals. Your physiotherapist discusses expected timelines during the assessment based on your specific situation and recovery progress.
Yes. Excessive activity disrupts tissue healing, increases inflammation, and may damage surgical repairs. Warning signs include pain increasing during activity and not resolving within 2 hours, swelling increase, reduced range of motion, and instability sensations. Stop activities causing these symptoms and contact your physiotherapist or surgeon. Your treatment program carefully balances progression with tissue healing requirements.
Good pain involves mild muscle soreness (2-4/10) from exercise, resolves within 2 hours post-activity, and doesn't limit function. Bad pain is sharp, sudden, exceeds 5/10 intensity, persists beyond 2 hours, or creates instability feelings. Stop activities causing bad pain and contact your physiotherapist or surgeon immediately. Understanding this distinction helps you progress safely while respecting tissue healing.
Ontario allows direct access to physiotherapists without physician referral. However, some insurance plans require medical referrals for coverage. Check your insurance policy details before booking. Bring your operative report, surgeon's post-operative instructions, and any imaging results to your initial assessment. Our team coordinates directly with your surgical team for optimal care.
Extended health insurance plans commonly include physiotherapy coverage with annual limits from $300-$2000. Per-visit reimbursement ranges from $40-$80 depending on policy terms. Motor vehicle accident (MVA) insurance covers accident-related injuries. Workplace Safety and Insurance Board (WSIB) covers work-related injuries. Post-operative physiotherapy may receive coverage under surgical procedure codes. Revibe provides direct billing for most extended health insurance plans. Verify coverage details with your insurance provider before treatment initiation.
Ice (15-20 minutes every 2-3 hours) during the first 2 weeks reduces inflammation and pain. Never apply heat during early inflammation phases as it increases swelling. Heat (after 2 weeks) relaxes muscles before stretching or after exercise once inflammation subsides. Your physiotherapist provides specific guidance based on your surgery type and recovery phase. Our thermal spa amenities including cold plunge support optimal recovery.
Bring your operative report, surgeon's post-operative instructions, any imaging results, insurance information, and a list of current medications. Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing that allows easy access to the surgical area. Athletic wear works well. If treating lower body, bring shorts. If you plan to use our thermal spa amenities, bring a bathing suit. Arrive 10 minutes early to complete intake forms.
Progress indicators include decreasing pain levels, increasing range of motion (measured weekly), improving strength (ability to perform more repetitions or higher resistance), advancing through weight-bearing stages, and achieving functional milestones. Your physiotherapist tracks objective measurements and compares them to expected timelines for your specific surgery. Contact your physiotherapist or surgeon if progress plateaus for 2+ weeks, pain increases rather than decreases, range of motion loss occurs, or new symptoms develop.
Temporary soreness following exercise or manual therapy is normal and indicates tissues are adapting. This differs from worsening pain that persists beyond 24-48 hours. Your physiotherapist monitors symptoms and adjusts treatment intensity to prevent symptom exacerbation. Proper exercise dosing and progression prevents flare-ups while building tolerance. Our healthcare professionals communicate closely to ensure your treatment plan remains safe and effective throughout recovery.
Meet Our Physiotherapy Team
Scott French Physiotherapist
Michael Leung Physiotherapist
Zeeruk Rehman Physiotherapist
What Our Patients Are Saying
Best physio, tore my ACL and I feel amazing after 4 months. Zee is your guy!
I have been seeing Zee and he has been helping me with my knee rehab. Very professional and knowledgable Physio. I have been feeling better and better and honestly, it has changed my life. Clean facility with all the amenities you need and a very friendly staff.
highly recommend Revibe Mississauga for anyone needing physiotherapy, chiropractic, or massage therapy. I saw Zeeruk for physiotherapy to treat my injury, and I couldn’t be happier with the results. Zeeruk truly takes the time to listen and understand his patients’ concerns, tailoring a solution that directly addresses each individual’s needs. His knowledge and dedication to his craft are clear as day, and he’s highly invested in helping his patients, like myself, recover. After over ten sessions, I see real progress and improvements daily. The clinic is excellent—it has a great location, modern facilities, and a wide range of amenities. Without a doubt, this is
Zeeruk Rehman has been a revelation in my rehab, I’ve regained my confidence in my athletic ability after my injury, and highly recommend him for anyone looking for physiotherapy. The facility and staff are top notch as well, and it’s great to be able to go to a resource like that when I need! The space has everything I need and the staff make it enjoyable to focus on getting better
Book Your Appointment in Mississauga, Markham or Burlington
Revibe operates clinics in Mississauga (serving Streetsville, Erin Mills, Meadowvale, and surrounding areas) and Markham (serving Unionville, Thornhill, Buttonville, and surrounding areas). Both locations provide comprehensive assessment and treatment services for your health and wellness needs.
Mississauga Clinic
Location: 2290 Dixie Rd, Mississauga, ON L4Y 1Z4
Phone: 905-783-8423
Hours: Monday-Friday 8am-8pm, Saturday 9am-3pm
New patient visits include comprehensive assessment and first treatment session (75 minutes). Bring previous imaging reports, medical diagnoses, and lists of current symptoms. Wear comfortable clothing that allows access to treatment areas.
Serving: Streetsville, Erin Mills, Meadowvale, Churchill Meadows, Lorne Park, Port Credit, Clarkson, and surrounding Mississauga neighborhoods. Convenient access from Highway 403, QEW, and Erin Mills Parkway.
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Markham Clinic
Location: 220 Torbay Rd, Markham ON, L3R 1G6
Phone: 905-783-8423
Hours: Monday-Friday 8am-8pm, Saturday 9am-3pm
Insurance coverage varies by provider. Extended health plans often include manual therapy and wellness services. Direct billing available for plans that Revibe accepts. Receipts provided for insurance submission or tax purposes.
Serving: Unionville, Thornhill, Markham Village, Buttonville, Milliken, Cornell, Angus Glen, and surrounding Markham and Richmond Hill areas. Easy access from Highway 7, Highway 404, and Major Mackenzie Drive.
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Burlington Clinic
Coming Soon
We're excited to announce that our Burlington location will be opening soon. Stay tuned for updates on our new clinic serving the Burlington, Oakville, and surrounding areas.
