Physiotherapy has a vital role to play in the rehabilitation of patients who have suffered fractures, dislocations or undergone surgical procedures.

Although orthopaedic surgery will fix the structural defects of an injury, it is important that the appropriate exercises and activities are performed in order to regain normal function. This often does not return automatically and requires careful guidance and monitoring from a physiotherapist, as well as hard work on the part of the patient. For example, many people who have had a hip or knee replacement do not achieve their optimum function because they do not continue with rehabilitation for long enough after their operation. Similarly, some do not progress their rehabilitation appropriately, resulting in an increased risk to further trauma or injury. This may be because muscle weakness and habitual walking patterns have not been corrected, leading to muscular pains and strain on other joints.

The physiotherapists at TOPS have many years of experience in this area as well as pre-operative rehabilitation (“pre-hab”). We maintain close communication with our referring surgeons to ensure the safest and most effective care. We will be happy to see our patients before their operation as well as soon after discharge from hospital; in some cases we are able to visit people in their home. Patients may refer themselves to TOPS, but it is important that the physiotherapist has full details of the surgical procedure and any post-operative instructions.