Knee surgery—whether it’s a total knee replacement, ligament repair, or arthroscopic procedure—is a major step toward healing chronic pain or injury. But surgery is just the beginning. What truly determines how well you recover is what comes after—and that’s where physiotherapy for knee pain plays a vital role.
At Bridgwater Physiotherapy, we help post-operative patients regain strength, flexibility, and confidence through structured physiotherapy treatment. Whether you’ve had a minimally invasive procedure or major reconstructive surgery, a consistent physiotherapy plan ensures you heal properly and avoid complications.
Why Is Physiotherapy After Knee Surgery So Important?
After surgery, the knee joint is often swollen, stiff, and weak. Without proper rehabilitation, you risk poor mobility, chronic pain, or even re-injury. Physiotherapy for knee pain addresses these issues by helping you:
Restore full range of motion
Regain muscle strength and balance
Reduce post-surgical swelling and stiffness
Relearn safe movement patterns
Prevent blood clots and scar tissue formation
Each patient’s recovery timeline may vary, but physiotherapy helps you stay on track and achieve long-term functional outcomes.
What to Expect in the Recovery Journey
At our physiotherapy clinic in Winnipeg, recovery is divided into stages based on your surgical procedure and how your body responds to treatment. Here's a general breakdown:
1. The Initial Phase (Week 1–2)
In the early days after surgery, the focus is on reducing pain and inflammation. You may begin physiotherapy for knee pain while still using a walker or crutches.
Typical goals during this phase:
Gentle range of motion exercises (e.g., heel slides)
Ankle pumps to improve blood flow
Light quad and hamstring activation
Education on safe movements and proper rest
Your physiotherapist will monitor swelling, surgical wound healing, and overall joint function. Home care tips and early exercises play a crucial role at this stage.
2. Regaining Motion and Strength (Week 3–6)
As you begin regaining range of motion, physiotherapy treatment becomes more active. Swelling should begin to subside, and your walking will improve with assistive devices.
Goals during this phase:
Increase knee bending (flexion) and straightening (extension)
Begin stationary cycling and light resistance training
Improve walking mechanics
Minimize scar tissue buildup
Patients often start feeling encouraged during this period, especially when stiffness begins to ease. But it’s important to stay consistent with sessions and avoid rushing the process.
3. Advanced Strengthening & Functional Training (Week 7–12+)
This stage focuses on returning to normal activities, work, and recreational movement. If you’re an athlete or lead a physically active lifestyle, your therapist may integrate sport-specific movements.
Key elements include:
Resistance band and weight-based strengthening
Balance and coordination exercises
Gait correction
Joint stability and endurance training
If you're also experiencing compensatory issues like lower back discomfort, we may also integrate physiotherapy for lower back pain to ensure your entire movement system is supported.
Customization is Key
Every surgery and every patient is different. At Bridgwater Physiotherapy, we provide a personalized plan based on your body’s progress, pain levels, and mobility goals. We also consider pre-existing issues like arthritis, back pain, or past injuries to ensure holistic healing.
Our physiotherapy clinic in Winnipeg uses a combination of hands-on techniques, exercise therapy, and patient education to guide your recovery every step of the way.
Physiotherapy for Lower Back Pain After Knee Surgery
It's not uncommon for post-surgical patients to develop back pain. Why? Because when you compensate for a weak or stiff knee, your posture changes—placing extra strain on your lower back.
Through targeted physiotherapy for lower back pain, we correct movement patterns and strengthen supportive muscles so your spine stays aligned and pain-free throughout your knee recovery.
Why Bridgwater Physiotherapy?
As a leading physiotherapy clinic in Winnipeg, Bridgwater Physiotherapy offers experienced therapists, customized care, and a comfortable recovery environment. Our approach is evidence-based and goal-driven—focused on getting you back to daily life without relying on long-term medication or further intervention.
Whether you need physiotherapy for knee pain post-surgery or support for related issues like physiotherapy for lower back pain, we’ve got you covered with compassionate care and expert guidance.
FAQs: Physiotherapy After Knee Surgery
Q1. When should I start physiotherapy after knee surgery?
Most patients begin physiotherapy treatment within a few days after surgery. Early movement is crucial for reducing stiffness and preventing complications. Always follow your surgeon’s referral timeline.
Q2. How long will I need physiotherapy for knee pain?
Recovery duration varies, but many patients attend therapy for 8–12 weeks. More complex surgeries or pre-existing conditions may require longer care.
Q3. Is it painful to do exercises after surgery?
Mild discomfort is expected, but sharp pain isn’t. Your physiotherapist will guide you through safe exercises that push your limits without risking injury.
Final Thoughts
Recovering from knee surgery takes time, effort, and the right support system. With the help of physiotherapy for knee pain, you can rebuild strength, regain mobility, and return to daily activities with confidence. Skipping or delaying physiotherapy can lead to slower recovery and lingering issues—so it’s a step you don’t want to overlook.
Book your consultation today at Bridgwater Physiotherapy, the trusted physiotherapy clinic in Winnipeg. Our team is here to help you recover right—with expert care designed just for you.
