How long after surgery to start physical therapy? my brother says theyre going to start me on physical therapy while im still in the hospital. isnt that too soon? shouldnt i heal from the surgery first?

Though : Though it may seem opposite to the idea that one needs to "heal" a bit before rehabilitation, in many instances physical therapy is appropriately started while in hospital. Hello: the therapists are familiar with your surgery and will follow guidelines by your surgeon. If there are needs for a safe transition to home (e.g. Some may need home setting modifications if stairs are difficult), starting therapy while in hospital also allows the therapist to assess your mobility and safety and help your social worker arrange specific things you need before sending you home. For example, patients with hip or knee replacements are routinely out of bed the next day and taking a few steps, and in case of hip replacement patients they are working on precautions to improve the safety of their hips. Hope this helps! sincerely, jim hsu, md seattle, wa.

Depends on surgery: In orthopaedics, physical therapy is often started immediately after surgery. The timing of pt is determined by the type of surgery performed. Ask your surgeon specifics- the more you know about what you will be doing, the better you will do after surgery.