A treatment program that gradually restores pain control, range of motion, and muscle strength after orthopedic surgeries such as ACL repair and hip-knee arthroplasty.
Indication
- After anterior cruciate ligament (ACL), posterior cruciate ligament, and meniscus repairs
- After hip and knee arthroplasty (replacement) surgeries
- After shoulder rotator cuff and shoulder instability surgeries
- After fracture treatment with cast, external fixator, or plate-screw fixation
- Rehabilitation following tendon and ligament repairs
- Functional recovery after scoliosis and spinal surgery
- Return-to-performance process following sports injuries
Preparation
- Bring the operative report and most recent follow-up information
- Learn the wound status, suture removal, and weight-bearing restrictions from your surgeon
- Bring any orthosis, brace, or crutches you use
- Inform the physiotherapist about your pain medication regimen
- Choose comfortable clothing that allows access to the surgical area
How it's performed
- The program is planned within the weight-bearing and motion restrictions set by the surgeon
- In the early phase, swelling, pain, and joint range-of-motion exercises are performed
- Isometric and then resisted muscle strengthening are gradually added
- Balance, proprioception, and neuromuscular control exercises are progressed
- Plyometric and sport-specific movements may be added during return-to-sport
- Scar mobilization, manual therapy, and hydrotherapy are applied when needed
Post-procedure
- Regular check-ups with the surgeon and physical medicine specialist
- Rehabilitation after joint replacement is usually intensive for 6-12 weeks, then maintenance
- Return-to-sport after injuries such as ACL typically takes 6-9 months
- A home exercise program and workplace ergonomic recommendations are provided
- Reassessment is performed according to the targeted activity level
Risks
- Wound infection or delayed healing
- Development of joint stiffness (contracture) and muscle atrophy
- Risk of reinjury due to early loading
- Deep vein thrombosis (with prolonged immobility)
- Chronic pain or complex regional pain syndrome (rare)
FAQ
When can I walk after knee replacement?
Most patients begin assisted walking the day after surgery. Independent walking is gradually increased on average within 4-6 weeks.
When can I return to sports after ACL surgery?
Return-to-sport typically takes 6-9 months. The duration is determined individually based on muscle strength, balance tests, and the type of sport.
Should I continue exercising when I have pain?
Mild discomfort is expected; however, if sharp, severe, or new pain develops, it is necessary to inform the physiotherapist and adjust the program.
Will it affect the surgical scar?
Scar mobilization performed at the right time helps soften the scar tissue and increases mobility.
Related Information
Related Medical Services
Other services in the same specialty or with similar indications you may want to explore.
Cold Therapy
Physical Therapy & Rehabilitation
Cryotherapy for control of pain and swelling in acute injuries and inflammatory conditions.
Isokinetic testing and exercise
Physical Therapy & Rehabilitation
Isokinetic testing and exercise — measuring and rehabilitating muscle strength using constant-velocity, variable resistance.
Exercise Bike Therapy
Physical Therapy & Rehabilitation
Exercise bike therapy — knee range of motion and lower-extremity conditioning.
Robotic Rehabilitation
Physical Therapy & Rehabilitation
Robotic rehabilitation — AI-assisted exercise therapy for neurological and orthopedic patients.
Manual Therapy
Physical Therapy & Rehabilitation
Manual therapy — musculoskeletal treatment delivered by a physiotherapist using their hands.
Electrotherapy
Physical Therapy & Rehabilitation
Electrotherapy — treatment of musculoskeletal pain with TENS and interferential current.
Therapeutic Ultrasound
Physical Therapy & Rehabilitation
Therapeutic ultrasound application providing deep-tissue heating with sound waves.
Laser Therapy
Physical Therapy & Rehabilitation
Pain control and tissue healing support with low-level laser therapy (LLLT).