Supporting You Before and After Surgery with Expert Physiotherapy
Surgery can be a life-changing event, but it’s only one part of the journey. At SmartPhysio, we help patients prepare for and recover from surgery through tailored physiotherapy that improves outcomes, speeds up recovery, and helps you return to normal life with strength and confidence.
Our pre- and post-operative rehabilitation services are designed to support you at every stage of your surgical journey, whether you’re preparing for a joint replacement, recovering from spinal surgery, or managing complications after orthopaedic procedures. To find out more about how we can support you, before your surgery and care post-surgery, contact us now, or book an appointment using the easy online booking system.
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What Is Pre- and Post-Surgical Physiotherapy?
Pre- and post-surgical physiotherapy, sometimes called prehab and rehab,
is a structured, evidence-based approach that aims to:
Prepare your body before surgery for the best possible outcome
Aid your recovery after surgery through guided exercise and treatment
Reduce complications, pain, and risk of re-injury
Improve strength, flexibility, balance, and confidence
We work closely with you and your medical team to deliver physiotherapy that aligns
with your individual surgical procedure, recovery timeline, and personal goals.
Why Choose SMARTPHYSIO?
Expert Care
Our highly qualified and experienced physiotherapists are carefully selected for both their professional and personal skills
Trusted
We have many 5-star reviews and are registered with the Chartered Society of Physiotherapists and the Health Care Professions Council
Here to Help
Whenever you need us, our expert staff are here to listen to you and ensure you get the perfect physiotherapy care.
Why Is Pre-Surgery
Physiotherapy Important?
Pre-surgical physiotherapy is often overlooked, but it can play a vital role in your recovery. Preparing your body for the stress of surgery can result in:
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Better surgical outcomes
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Faster post-surgery recovery
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Reduced risk of complications such as blood clots or infections
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Increased muscle strength and joint mobility going into surgery
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Improved mental preparedness and confidence
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We commonly provide prehab for patients undergoing:
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ACL and other ligament reconstructions
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Spinal surgeries such as discectomies or decompressions
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Shoulder repairs
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Foot and ankle surgeries
During pre-surgery physiotherapy, we’ll assess your current physical condition, build a strength and mobility program, and provide guidance on what to expect post-operatively. It’s not just about getting stronger, it’s about going into surgery with the best chance of success.
The Role of Physiotherapy After Surgery
Once your surgery is complete, the recovery process begins, and physiotherapy becomes essential.
Post-surgery physiotherapy is tailored to each stage of your recovery. We’ll start by helping you manage pain and swelling, regain range of motion, and safely reintroduce movement. As you progress, we focus on rebuilding strength, balance, and functional ability to support your return to everyday activities or sport.
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We often help with recovery from:
Fracture repairs
Tendon or ligament reconstructions
Shoulder stabilisations or rotator cuff repairs​
Every rehabilitation program is customised to you, your goals and your recovery timeline. Our goal is to help you move better, feel stronger, and recover faster.
Common Goals of
Post-Operative Rehabilitation
Depending on where you are in your physiotherapy journey, a home visit session may include:​​​
Restore joint mobility and flexibility
Reduce swelling and inflammation
Improve circulation and healing
Build muscle strength and endurance
Prevent complications such as stiffness, infection, or scar tissue build-up
Improve posture, gait, and balance
Support a return to work, sport, or daily activities
Physiotherapy also plays a psychological role, helping patients regain confidence
in their bodies and overcome the fear of re-injury.
How We Work
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At SmartPhysio, we take a collaborative and personalised approach to your surgical rehabilitation. Whether you're preparing for an operation or recovering from one, we begin with a detailed assessment to understand your movement, strength, pain levels, and specific goals. This allows us to tailor your treatment to the demands of your surgery, your current physical status, and the milestones you're aiming to reach.
Your physiotherapy plan may include a combination of joint mobilisation techniques and soft tissue therapy to reduce stiffness, ease discomfort, and improve circulation. We design personalised strength and flexibility programs that gradually build your physical resilience, helping your body adapt safely to movement again.
We also incorporate neuromuscular training, which focuses on improving control and coordination, essential for regaining function and preventing re-injury. If you’ve had a lower limb operation, for example, we’ll work on gait retraining to help you walk smoothly and confidently again. Similarly, we focus on posture, balance, and daily functional tasks relevant to your lifestyle and goals.
To support your progress outside of the clinic, we provide home exercise programs that are simple, safe, and tailored to your stage of recovery. Education is a core part of our approach as well, we’ll guide you through what to expect during recovery, how to pace your activity, and how to avoid setbacks.
Throughout your rehabilitation journey, we reassess regularly and adapt your plan as needed. This ensures each phase of treatment supports your healing while steadily moving you toward full recovery.
Why Choose SmartPhysio for
Surgical Rehabilitation?
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Specialist experience: Our team regularly works with orthopaedic, spinal, and sports surgery patients
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Personalised care: Every plan is tailored to your surgery, health status, and goals
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Evidence-based approach: We use the latest techniques to support healing and performance
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One-to-one sessions: You receive focused attention and support throughout your recovery
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Continuity of care: From prehab to final rehab, we’re with you at every step
Whether your goal is walking without pain, returning to sport, or regaining full function at work, our experienced team is here to help you get there safely and confidently.
Our London Physiotherapy Clinics
We also provide visiting physiotherapy to your home, care home or office
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I start pre-surgery physiotherapy?
Ideally, you should begin 4–6 weeks before your surgery. However, even a few sessions can make a difference, so it’s never too late to start.
How soon after surgery can I start physiotherapy?
This varies depending on your procedure and surgeon’s advice, but many people start gentle exercises or movement within days of surgery. We’ll work closely with your medical team to ensure safe and appropriate timing.
Can I do physiotherapy at home?
Yes — we provide clear home exercise programs to complement in-clinic sessions, especially in the early stages of recovery.
Do I need a referral from my surgeon?
Yes — we provide clear home exercise programs to complement in-clinic sessions, especially in the early stages of recovery.
How can I Book an Appointment with SmartPhysio?
If you’re preparing for surgery or starting your recovery, get in touch with SmartPhysio today. Our expert team is ready to support you every step of the way, helping you heal faster, move better, and return to the life you love. Simply contact us, or use the quick and easy online booking system to arrange an appointment now.