Physical therapy timing depends on the specific procedure, but it typically begins earlier than most patients expect.
- Same-day or next-day mobility work is common after joint replacements, to encourage early movement
- Formal outpatient physical therapy usually starts within the first one to two weeks post-surgery
- Progressive rehab phases follow, moving from gentle range-of-motion work to strength and functional training
- Duration varies by procedure, ranging from a few weeks for minor surgeries to several months for major joint replacements
Starting physical therapy at the right time, and following the plan consistently, plays a major role in how well and how quickly you recover. Your surgical team will provide a specific timeline based on your procedure.
