Recover Safely and Effectively After Surgery
Your Journey from Hospital to Full Activity
Undergoing surgery is a significant milestone, but what happens in the weeks following the procedure is just as critical as the operation itself. Whether you have had a joint replacement, a ligament reconstruction, or spinal surgery, a structured, professional rehabilitation programme is the key to a faster recovery, restored confidence, and a superior long-term outcome.
At The Whiteley Physiotherapy Centre
At The Whiteley Physiotherapy Centre, we specialise in post-surgical rehabilitation. Our team of physiotherapists and sports therapists understands the delicate balance between protecting a surgical site and the need for early, controlled movement. We are here to guide you through every milestone, ensuring you don’t just “heal,” but truly thrive.
Why Post-Surgical Physiotherapy Matters
Without expert guidance, it is common for the body to develop “compensatory patterns”—stiffness, muscle wastage, or a persistent limp—that can last long after the surgical wound has closed.
Physiotherapy-led rehabilitation addresses these risks by:
- Managing Swelling: Using specific techniques to reduce inflammation and pain in the early days.
- Restoring Range of Motion: Gently “re-opening” the joint before scar tissue can cause permanent stiffness.
- Rebuilding Strength: Activating muscles that often “switch off” following the trauma of surgery.
- Adhering to Protocols: Working strictly within the specific timelines set by your Consultant Surgeon.
The Three Phases of Your Recovery
Phase 1: Protection & Early Mobility
In the first 1–4 weeks, we focus on pain management and gentle movement. Our on-site Hydrotherapy pool is an exceptional tool during this phase, allowing you to move your new joint in a weightless environment without the pain of full gravity.
Phase 2: Progressive Strengthening
Once the initial healing has occurred, we begin “loading” the tissues. We use targeted exercises to wake up the glutes, quads, or rotator cuff muscles, gradually increasing the resistance as your body allows.
Phase 3: Return to Function & Sport
The final push. We move away from basic exercises and into “real world” movements—climbing stairs with ease, returning to the golf course, or beginning sport-specific drills.
Your First Post-Surgical Appointment
At The Whiteley Physiotherapy Centre, we aim to see you as soon as you are discharged—ideally within the first 7 to 14 days—unless your surgeon has specified a different “rest” period.
Practicalities for your visit
- A Comprehensive 45-Minute Assessment: Your clinician will review your surgical notes and discharge summary. We will assess your wound healing, swelling levels, and current range of motion.
- What to wear: Please wear loose, comfortable clothing that allows easy access to the surgical site (e.g., shorts for a knee/hip surgery or a vest top for a shoulder procedure).
- What to bring: It is essential to bring your Surgical Discharge Letter and any specific Physiotherapy Protocol provided by your hospital.
- A Clear Roadmap: You will leave your first session with a clear understanding of what you can and cannot do, along with a manageable home exercise plan to keep your progress moving between clinic visits.
Honesty in Rehabilitation
We believe in realistic expectations. Surgery “fixes” the structural problem, but physiotherapy “restores” the person.
Clinical Note: Recovery is rarely a perfectly straight line. You will have days where the joint feels “grumpy” or tired, and that is a normal part of the process.
While basic walking usually returns quickly, the physiological process of full tissue maturation and muscle rebuilding takes time. For most major orthopaedic surgeries, a dedicated rehab period of three to six months is required to reach peak function. We are committed to being your expert partners for that entire journey, ensuring you reach the best version of “you” on the other side.
Post-Surgical Rehabilition
Your Treatment Team
- Felicia Fetcu – Physiotherapist and hydrotherapy physiotherapist (CSP: 106027 | HCPC: PH117618)
- Bethany Vance – Physiotherapist (CSP: 127691 | HCPC: PH146896)
- Yves De Vos – Physiotherapist and shockwave therapy (CSP: 54623 | HCPC: PH48182)
- Diane Shaw – Physiotherapist, acupuncture, and hydrotherapy (CSP: 49658 | HCPC: PH41958)
- Simona Jacob – Physiotherapist (CSP: 111102 | HCPC: PH124185)
- Cameron Hawley – Sports therapist, hydrotherapy, and shockwave therapy (SST: 22983)
All our physiotherapists are registered with the HCPC and CSP. Our sports therapists are registered with the Society of Sports Therapists.
Pricing and Appointment
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Initial Assessment £79 / 45 minutes
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Follow-Up Session £59 / 30 minutes
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Block Booking £319 for 6 sessions
We are recognised by Bupa, AXA PPP, Aviva, WPA, Cigna, and Vitality. If your rehabilitation is funded by insurance, please contact us before booking. Your insurer may require a referral from your consultant or GP.
To book, call 01489 569888 or email info@thewhiteleyphysiocentre.co.uk.
Conveniently Located in Whiteley
Our clinic is at Gull Coppice, Yew Tree Drive, Whiteley, Fareham, Hampshire, PO15 7LS, close to Whiteley Community Centre and Whiteley Primary School. We serve patients from Whiteley, Fareham, Segensworth, Swanwick, Titchfield, Sarisbury, and Burridge.
Opening hours: Mon 8.30-5.00 / Tue 8.30-8.00 / Wed 8.30-8.00 / Thu 8.30-8.00 / Fri 8.30-6.00
Phone: 01489 569888
Email: info@thewhiteleyphysiocentre.co.uk
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I start physiotherapy after surgery?
This depends on the procedure. For most orthopaedic surgeries, we recommend starting within one to two weeks. Your surgeon may provide specific guidance. If in doubt, contact us and we can advise.
How long does post-surgical rehabilitation take?
Will post-surgical physiotherapy be painful?
Do I need a referral from my surgeon?
Can I have hydrotherapy as part of my rehabilitation?
Do you work with my surgeon's protocol?
Can I claim my rehabilitation on health insurance?
What should I bring to my first appointment?
How often will I need to attend?
Where is the clinic?
Ready to Get Started?
Had surgery recently or have a procedure planned? Book your post-surgical assessment now by calling 01489 569888 or booking online. Early rehabilitation leads to better outcomes.