Question 1

Do I need rehabilitation after surgery?

Accepted Answer

It depends on the type of surgery. For orthopaedic surgery (joint replacement, ACL, rotator cuff, spinal fusion), physiotherapy rehabilitation is not optional. It is an essential part of the treatment. For cardiac surgery or a cardiac event, cardiac rehabilitation significantly reduces the risk of another event and is strongly recommended. For many abdominal and other surgeries, physiotherapy input may be recommended for specific issues. Your surgeon or GP will advise on what is appropriate for your procedure.

Question 2

What is cardiac rehabilitation and who needs it?

Accepted Answer

Cardiac rehabilitation is a structured programme of exercise, education, and support for people who have had a heart attack, cardiac surgery (bypass, valve replacement), angioplasty/stent placement, or heart failure. It typically runs for 6–12 weeks and includes supervised exercise sessions, heart health education, dietary guidance, and psychological support. Evidence consistently shows it reduces the risk of another cardiac event, improves fitness and quality of life, and reduces hospital readmissions. It is recommended for virtually everyone who has had a significant cardiac event, yet many patients are not told about it or do not attend.

Question 3

Do I need rehab after angioplasty or a stent?

Accepted Answer

Yes: cardiac rehabilitation is recommended after angioplasty (coronary angioplasty) and stent placement, even if you feel well. The procedure opens a blocked artery, but it does not address the underlying heart disease or the lifestyle factors that caused it. Cardiac rehab reduces the risk of another event, improves heart function, and gives you the tools and supervised support to exercise safely. Many patients feel so well after a successful angioplasty that they assume they don't need rehab: this is a common and potentially serious oversight.

Question 4

What happens if I skip rehabilitation?

Accepted Answer

For cardiac patients: skipping rehabilitation is associated with higher rates of readmission and repeat cardiac events. The supervised exercise component is particularly important: many patients are afraid to exercise after a cardiac event and rehabilitation gives them the confidence and safety monitoring to do so. For orthopaedic patients: skipping physiotherapy after joint replacement or ACL reconstruction significantly increases the risk of stiffness, weakness, poor function, and long-term disability. The surgery creates the foundation; rehabilitation builds what surgery cannot.

Question 5

When does rehabilitation start after surgery?

Accepted Answer

For most orthopaedic surgery, physiotherapy begins within days of the procedure, sometimes on the same day. Early movement prevents stiffness and blood clots. For cardiac surgery, supervised rehabilitation typically starts 2–6 weeks after the procedure, once the wound has healed and you have been medically cleared. For cardiac events (heart attack, angioplasty), referral to cardiac rehabilitation should happen before you leave hospital or at your first outpatient appointment.

Do I Need Rehabilitation After Surgery?

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Do I Need Rehabilitation After Surgery?

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