Post-Surgery Rehabilitation at Home in Sydney
Structured post-operative physiotherapy programs delivered in the comfort of your home, following your surgeon's protocols to support your recovery from North-West Sydney to the Inner West.
Why Choose Post-Surgery Rehab at Home?
Post-surgery rehab at home in Sydney offers several advantages for older adults. Whether you need physio after a hip replacement, knee replacement physio through home visits, or rehabilitation following another procedure, recovering in a familiar environment reduces confusion and anxiety. There is no need to travel to a clinic during the early stages of recovery when mobility is limited. And your physiotherapist can assess and address the real-world challenges you face - such as getting in and out of your own bed, navigating your bathroom, or managing steps at your front door.
At Wellworx Physio, we deliver post-operative physiotherapy across Sydney, working closely with your surgeon, GP and aged care provider to follow your rehabilitation protocol precisely. We bring all necessary equipment to each session, so there is nothing you need to set up or prepare.
Early mobilisation after surgery is important. Research supports that beginning rehabilitation soon after surgery - within the guidelines set by your surgeon - may help improve range of motion, reduce stiffness and support a return to daily activities. Our goal is to help you recover safely and regain as much function as possible.
Hip Replacement, Knee Replacement and Other Surgeries We Rehabilitate
We provide post-operative rehabilitation for a range of surgical procedures common in older adults. Each program is tailored to your specific surgery, your surgeon's protocol and your individual goals.
Hip Replacement
Total and partial hip replacement rehabilitation including precaution management, range of motion exercises, progressive strengthening, gait retraining and return to functional activities such as stair climbing and getting in and out of a car.
Knee Replacement
Total knee replacement rehabilitation focusing on regaining range of motion, reducing swelling, building quadriceps strength, improving walking pattern and progressing to stairs, squatting and other functional movements.
Fracture Rehabilitation
Rehabilitation following hip fractures, wrist fractures, spinal compression fractures and other fractures common in older adults. We follow weight-bearing guidelines from your surgeon and progress your program as healing allows.
Cardiac and Other Surgery
Post-operative rehabilitation after cardiac surgery, abdominal surgery and other procedures. We focus on safe mobilisation, breathing exercises, gradually increasing activity tolerance and restoring functional independence.
Post-Operative Physiotherapy Timeline: What to Expect
Every recovery is different, and timelines vary based on the type of surgery, your overall health and how your body responds to rehabilitation. The following is a general guide for joint replacement rehabilitation. Your physiotherapist will discuss a more specific timeline based on your situation.
Week 1 to 2: Early Recovery
Focus on pain and swelling management, gentle range of motion exercises, safe transfers (bed, chair, toilet) and short-distance walking with appropriate aids. We ensure you are following your surgeon's precautions and weight-bearing guidelines.
Week 3 to 6: Building Strength
Progressive strengthening exercises, increased walking distance, stair practice and functional activities. We begin reducing reliance on walking aids as your strength and confidence allow.
Week 6 to 12: Functional Recovery
Higher-level strengthening, balance training, return to community activities and gradual transition to independent exercise. We reassess your progress and adjust your program to match your recovery stage.
Week 12 and Beyond: Maintenance
Ongoing exercise to maintain gains, address any residual limitations and support long-term joint health. Sessions may reduce in frequency as you transition to an independent home exercise program.
How It Works
Starting post-surgery rehabilitation at home is simple.
Referral or Contact
Your surgeon, GP or aged care provider refers you, or you contact us directly before or after your surgery.
Initial Assessment
We review your surgical notes and protocols, assess your current mobility and create a rehabilitation plan.
Rehabilitation Sessions
Regular home visits with hands-on treatment, exercise progression and functional training.
Progress and Discharge
We track your recovery with objective measures and transition you to independent exercise when ready.
Who Benefits from Home-Based Post-Surgery Rehab?
Home-based post-surgery rehabilitation is particularly well-suited for older adults who:
- Have recently had a hip or knee replacement, fracture repair or other surgery
- Have difficulty travelling to a clinic during early recovery
- Want rehabilitation that addresses their specific home environment and daily tasks
- Live in an aged care facility or retirement village
- Have other health conditions that make clinic attendance more challenging
Frequently Asked Questions
How soon after surgery can home physiotherapy start?
For most joint replacements, home physiotherapy can begin within a few days of hospital discharge. Your surgeon's post-operative protocol guides the timing. We coordinate with your surgical team to begin at the appropriate stage of your recovery.
Do you follow my surgeon's rehabilitation protocol?
Yes. We follow the specific post-operative protocol provided by your surgeon. This includes any precautions, weight-bearing restrictions, range of motion limits and exercise progressions. We communicate with your surgical team if we have any questions about your protocol.
How long does post-surgery rehabilitation typically last?
The duration varies depending on the type of surgery and your individual recovery. Hip and knee replacements typically involve 8 to 16 weeks of physiotherapy. Fracture rehabilitation may take longer depending on the nature of the injury. Your physiotherapist will discuss expected timelines during your initial assessment. Many clients access post-surgery rehab through government-funded programs at no out-of-pocket cost.
Related Services
Falls Prevention
Reduce your risk of falls after surgery with targeted balance and strength training programs.
Pain Management
Evidence-based pain management strategies for post-operative discomfort and chronic pain conditions.
Mobility and Strength Training
Ongoing exercise programs to maintain and build on the strength gained during rehabilitation.
Content reviewed by Jovi Villanueva, AHPRA Registered Physiotherapist, APA Member, Principal Physiotherapist at Wellworx Physio.
Last updated: March 2026
Recovering from Surgery?
Contact us to arrange home-based rehabilitation that follows your surgeon's protocol.