This is one of the most common questions after any surgical procedure, and the honest answer is: it depends on your surgeon's specific protocol, not a fixed rule that applies to everyone. ### Why timing varies so much Recovery timelines differ significantly based on the type of surgery, the technique used, and your individual healing. A knee replacement, an ACL reconstruction, and a fracture fixation all come with different precautions and different appropriate starting points for physiotherapy. Some patients begin gentle movement within days; others need a longer initial healing period before formal rehabilitation starts. ### What generally happens in the early stages Many patients start some form of physiotherapy input within the first couple of weeks after surgery, though the focus initially tends to be on gentle, protocol-appropriate movement, swelling management, and understanding any weight-bearing restrictions, rather than intensive exercise. This early stage is best supported in person, so your physiotherapist can directly monitor your wound, swelling, and movement. ### Why your surgeon's guidance comes first Physiotherapy after surgery should always work alongside your surgeon's specific instructions, not independently of them. If you've been given a post-operative protocol or precautions, bring these to your first physiotherapy appointment—it means your rehabilitation plan is built around exactly what's appropriate for your procedure and stage of healing, rather than a generic timeline. ### Later-stage rehabilitation As you progress and your surgeon confirms you're cleared for more independent movement, rehabilitation often shifts toward progressive strengthening and return-to-activity work. This later stage is generally well-suited to online sessions if that's more convenient, since the focus moves from hands-on monitoring to guided exercise progression. ### The bottom line Don't wait for a fixed number of weeks, and don't guess. Check with your surgeon or surgical team about when physiotherapy is appropriate to start for your specific procedure, then book your first assessment around that guidance.