Expert physical therapy before and after surgery to help you recover safely, restore movement, and get back to the activities you love. Our personalized rehabilitation programs are designed around your procedure, goals, and recovery timeline.
Why Physical Therapy Matters Before and After Surgery
Preparing for surgery is just as important as recovering afterward.
Physical therapy before surgery, often called prehabilitation (prehab), can help improve strength, mobility, and confidence before your procedure. After surgery, rehabilitation focuses on reducing pain, restoring movement, rebuilding strength, and helping you safely return to work, sports, and everyday life.
No two recoveries are the same. Your physical therapist will develop a personalized treatment plan based on your surgery, goals, and progress.
You Have a Choice
Did you know you can often choose where you receive physical therapy?
Even if your surgeon or another healthcare provider recommends physical therapy, you can typically choose the clinic where you receive your rehabilitation.
Choosing a physical therapy provider that fits your needs can make a meaningful difference in your recovery. If you’d like to receive care at Optimum Therapies, simply let your provider know or contact our team. We’re happy to coordinate with your surgeon and obtain any necessary documentation.
Conditions and Procedures We Commonly Treat
Joint Replacement
- Total Knee Replacement
- Total Hip Replacement
- Partial Knee Replacement
- Total Shoulder Replacement
Shoulder Surgery
- Rotator Cuff Repair
- Labral Repair
- Shoulder Arthroscopy
Knee Surgery
- ACL Reconstruction
- Meniscus Repair
- Knee Arthroscopy
Spine Surgery
- Cervical Fusion
- Lumbar Fusion
- Microdiscectomy
Foot and Ankle
- Achilles Tendon Repair
- Ankle Reconstruction
- Fracture Rehabilitation
Benefits of Rehabilitation
Physical therapy may help you:
- Improve strength before surgery
- Restore mobility after surgery
- Reduce pain and swelling
- Improve flexibility and range of motion
- Improve balance and stability
- Rebuild strength safely
- Return to work sooner
- Return to sports and recreation
- Improve confidence throughout recovery
Our Approach to Recovery
At Optimum Therapies, we don’t just focus on the surgical site. We focus on how your entire body moves.
Our rehabilitation programs combine evidence-based treatment, hands-on care, functional exercise, and movement training to help restore strength, mobility, balance, and confidence throughout your recovery.
When appropriate, we also incorporate Pilates-based rehabilitation to improve core stability, posture, body awareness, movement quality, and long-term function.
What to Expect
Every recovery is unique, and your rehabilitation program will be tailored to your procedure, goals, and progress. From your first visit through your return to work, sports, or everyday activities, our team will guide you every step of the way.
Comprehensive Evaluation
Your first appointment begins with a thorough evaluation. Your physical therapist will review your medical history, discuss your surgery or upcoming procedure, assess your current mobility, strength, pain levels, and movement, and learn about your recovery goals.
Personalized Treatment Plan
Based on your evaluation and your surgeon’s recommendations (when applicable), your therapist will develop a customized rehabilitation program designed specifically for you. Your plan of care will evolve as you heal and make progress.
Progressive Rehabilitation
As your recovery progresses, your treatment will advance safely and appropriately to improve strength, flexibility, mobility, balance, endurance, and functional movement. Every exercise and treatment is selected to help you achieve your recovery goals.
Hands-On Care and Movement Training
Your rehabilitation may include therapeutic exercise, manual therapy, balance training, functional movement, and, when appropriate, our Pilates-based rehabilitation approach to improve stability, posture, and movement quality.
Return to What Matters Most
Whether your goal is returning to work, getting back on the golf course, playing with your grandchildren, or competing in sports again, we’ll help you regain the strength, confidence, and function needed to safely return to the activities you enjoy.
Why choose Optimum Therapies?
At Optimum Therapies, we understand that every surgery, every recovery, and every patient is different. That’s why we create personalized rehabilitation programs designed around your procedure, goals, lifestyle, and progress.
When you choose Optimum Therapies, you can expect:
- Individualized treatment plans tailored to your recovery
- One-on-one care from licensed physical therapists
- Evidence-based rehabilitation techniques
- Hands-on treatment and progressive exercise programs
- Pilates-based rehabilitation when appropriate to improve stability, movement, and long-term function
- Collaboration with your surgeon and healthcare team when needed
- Convenient locations throughout Wisconsin and North Dakota
Our goal isn’t just to help you recover from surgery. It’s to help you move confidently and return to the activities that matter most.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need physical therapy before surgery?
In many cases, yes. Pre-surgical rehabilitation, often called prehab, can help improve strength, mobility, and flexibility before your procedure leading to a better outcome post-surgery. Entering surgery in better physical condition may support your recovery afterward.
When should I start physical therapy after surgery?
Your surgeon will determine when it’s appropriate to begin rehabilitation. Many patients begin physical therapy within days of surgery, while others may need to wait depending on the procedure and healing process.
Can I choose where I go for physical therapy after surgery?
Yes. In most cases, you have the right to choose where you receive physical therapy, even if your surgeon or another healthcare provider recommends a specific clinic. If you’d like to receive care at Optimum Therapies, simply let your provider know or contact our team. We’re happy to coordinate your care.
Do I need a referral for post-surgical physical therapy?
Many patients in Wisconsin and North Dakota can begin physical therapy without a referral through Direct Access. However, some insurance plans may still require a referral for coverage. Our team will verify your benefits before your first appointment whenever possible.
Will insurance cover post-surgical physical therapy?
Many insurance plans cover physical therapy following surgery, but coverage varies by plan. Before your first appointment, we’ll verify your insurance benefits and explain any requirements specific to your policy.
How long will I need physical therapy after surgery?
Every recovery is different. The number of visits you’ll need depends on your procedure, overall health, recovery goals, and progress. Your physical therapist will discuss your recommended plan of care during your evaluation and adjust it as you recover.
Will my physical therapist communicate with my surgeon?
Yes. When appropriate, we’ll communicate with your surgeon and follow any post-operative protocols or recommendations to help ensure a safe and effective recovery.
What should I bring to my first appointment?
- A photo ID
- Your insurance card (if using insurance)
- Any referral or post-operative instructions you received (if applicable)
- Comfortable clothing that allows you to move easily
Will physical therapy be painful after surgery?
Some soreness is common as your body heals and you begin moving again, but rehabilitation should not cause severe pain. Your therapist will tailor your treatment to your stage of recovery and adjust exercises or techniques based on your comfort and progress.
What if I don't see my surgery listed on this page?
We treat patients recovering from many orthopedic procedures and injuries beyond those listed. Contact your nearest Optimum Therapies location, and our team will be happy to discuss your specific procedure and rehabilitation needs.
Content reviewed by Jenna Shambeau, PTA at Optimum Therapies.