Make your assessment practical
Bring your surgeon’s instructions.
Operation details, weight-bearing or movement restrictions, discharge advice and the timing of your next surgical review help guide rehabilitation. Bring the instructions you have; your physiotherapist can discuss how these relate to everyday tasks and your exercise plan.
Continue your care with a clear plan.
Returning home after orthopaedic surgery can bring questions about movement, exercise and everyday tasks. Our Elizabeth Park physiotherapy appointments provide a place to discuss your recovery and plan suitable next steps.
Tell us which procedure you have had, when it took place and what your treating team has advised. We also discuss your health history, current support and the activities you would like to work towards.
Your surgical instructions come first.
Please bring your discharge summary, surgeon’s instructions and any rehabilitation protocol. Restrictions can differ between procedures and individuals. Your physiotherapist uses this information alongside the assessment to decide which activities are appropriate at your current stage.
If instructions are unclear, we discuss what needs to be clarified with your treating team. With your consent, relevant information can be shared to support coordination of your care.
Rehabilitation that fits your recovery.
Depending on your procedure and assessment, appointments may focus on:
- Reviewing relevant movement and everyday function.
- Exercises within your surgeon’s recommendations.
- Walking, balance or practical tasks where appropriate.
- Adjusting your programme as your needs change.
We explain the purpose of each part of the plan and discuss what to practise between visits. Progress varies, so review frequency and activity goals are agreed individually. Physiotherapy appointments complement your surgical follow-up and do not replace it.
Discuss the tasks that matter at home.
Recovery goals can be practical: getting out of a chair, managing a usual walking route or returning to an everyday task. Tell your physiotherapist which activities are difficult and what help you currently have. This helps us discuss priorities within your surgical instructions and current abilities.
You can read more about our exercise rehabilitation and strength, balance and mobility assessment. These may form part of an individual plan when appropriate; the activities and their timing depend on your procedure and treating team’s advice.
Before your appointment.
Ask your surgical team when you should begin outpatient physiotherapy and whether they have specific requirements. When booking, tell our team the type and date of surgery and any mobility or communication needs.
Bring your current exercise programme, relevant reports, medication list and any walking aid or brace you have been advised to use. Comfortable clothing can make assessment easier. You are welcome to bring a support person if that helps you take part in the appointment.
For unexpected or worsening symptoms after surgery, follow the contact instructions provided by your surgical team and seek appropriate medical advice. Do not wait for a routine rehabilitation review if you are concerned about a complication.
Your physiotherapy appointment.
See Jency Donda, physiotherapist, at our Elizabeth Park clinic. For a GP care plan, NDIS, DVA, Support at Home or WorkCover appointment, check the relevant referral and plan information before booking.
Helpful questions.
When should I start physiotherapy after surgery?
Timing depends on your procedure and surgeon’s advice. Follow the instructions you were given and contact our team to arrange an appointment at the recommended stage.
Can I bring an existing rehabilitation programme?
Yes. Bring your current programme and any written restrictions. Your physiotherapist will review them with you before discussing appropriate next steps.
What if I do not have written rehabilitation instructions?
Tell our team when arranging your appointment and contact your surgical team for the relevant instructions or discharge information. Bring the information you do have. Your physiotherapist can discuss what needs clarification before planning activities that depend on those restrictions.
More information: healthdirect: rehabilitation after illness or injury.