Many people assume that rehabilitation only begins after surgery. In fact, what you do in the weeks and months beforehand can be just as important.



Research consistently shows that patients who complete a structured prehabilitation program before knee replacement:

• Recover faster and more completely after surgery
• Spend less time in hospital
• Require less pain medication post-operatively
• Regain strength and mobility sooner
• Have greater confidence going into the procedure

The reason is straightforward: the stronger and more mobile your knee is going into surgery, the better foundation your body has to recover from. Even modest improvements in quadriceps strength and range of motion before your operation can make a meaningful difference to your outcome.

• Strengthening exercises targeting the quadriceps, hamstrings, glutes, and calves
• Range of motion work to maximise flexibility before surgery
• Balance and proprioception training
• Education on what to expect from surgery and recovery
• Goal setting and baseline measurement so we can track your progress post-op

Prehab is relevant to you if you are:

• On the surgical waiting list and want to use the time productively
• Recently told you will need a knee replacement in the coming months
• Wanting to reduce your risk of complications and speed up recovery
• Managing significant pain or weakness in the lead-up to surgery
• Anxious about the procedure and want to feel more prepared and in control

Even a four to six week prehab program can produce meaningful improvements. If you have longer on the waiting list, we can make even greater gains.

Recovery from a total knee replacement typically takes three to six months for most daily activities, and up to twelve months for full functional recovery — particularly for more demanding activities like hiking, golf, or returning to physical work.

Structured physiotherapy after surgery is essential. Without it, outcomes are significantly worse — including higher rates of stiffness, prolonged pain, and reduced long-term function.

We work collaboratively with your orthopaedic surgeon and any other members of your healthcare team to ensure your rehabilitation aligns with their post-operative protocols and any specific precautions relevant to your procedure. If you have discharge instructions or a protocol from your surgeon, bring them along to your first appointment and we'll build your program around them.



We also work closely with GPs and specialists across Adelaide and welcome referrals from surgical practices managing patients before and after knee replacement.

Q: When should I start prehab before my knee replacement? As soon as you know surgery is planned. Even if you're in significant pain, there is almost always something we can do to improve your strength, mobility, and readiness. Ideally, we'd like at least six to eight weeks, but any time spent on prehab is better than none.



Q: When can I start physio after my knee replacement? Most people begin physiotherapy within the first one to two weeks after surgery, once they're safely mobile and cleared by their surgical team. The sooner you start, the better your outcomes are likely to be — particularly for regaining range of motion, which can be harder to recover if left too long.

Q: How long will post-op rehab take? Most people achieve their main functional goals within three to six months. Full recovery — including return to more demanding activities — can take up to twelve months. Your physio will give you realistic milestones based on your surgery, your starting point, and your goals.

Q: Do I need a referral to start rehab? No referral is needed to book directly with us. If you're accessing treatment through Medicare's Chronic Disease Management plan, your GP will need to set up a referral. Some private health funds also require a referral for rebates — check with your fund if you're unsure.

Q: My knee still feels stiff months after surgery — is that normal? Some degree of stiffness is common, particularly in the first few months. However, persistent stiffness that isn't improving is worth addressing sooner rather than later. Range of motion is generally easier to recover earlier in the rehab process. If you feel like you've stalled, come in and see us — there's often a lot we can do.

Q: Can I do rehab at my own gym instead of coming in? A home exercise program is an important part of recovery, and we'll give you one. However, supervised rehabilitation — particularly in the early months — produces better outcomes than self-directed exercise alone. Having a physio monitor your technique, progress your loading appropriately, and adjust your program in real time makes a significant difference.

Q: What about returning to sport or recreational activities after a knee replacement? Many people return to low-impact activities such as walking, cycling, swimming, and golf after a total knee replacement. Higher-impact activities depend on your implant type, your surgeon's advice, and your individual recovery. We'll work with you and your surgical team to set safe, realistic return-to-activity goals.