Is It Too Soon to Start Physical Therapy After Surgery? Here’s What You Need to Know
by Elliott Concierge Physical Therapy, serving Naples & Bonita Springs
Recovering from surgery can be overwhelming — physically, emotionally, and logistically. One of the most common questions we hear from patients is:
“How soon should I start physical therapy after surgery?”
The short answer? Probably sooner than you think. And the good news is: you don’t have to leave your home to begin.
💡 Why Starting Physical Therapy Early Matters
Delaying your rehab can result in:
Stiffness and joint tightness
Muscle weakness and atrophy
Scar tissue formation
Longer and more painful recovery
Early physical therapy — often within 24–72 hours after surgery — helps restore motion, reduce inflammation, and prevent complications that can set your progress back weeks or months.
🦵 When to Start PT: Guidelines by Surgery Type
While your surgeon will offer personalized clearance, here’s a general guide:
✅ Total Joint Replacements (Hip, Knee, Shoulder)
Begin PT within 1–3 days post-op if medically cleared
Focus on swelling control, mobility, and walking with assistive devices
See our post-operative rehab services
✅ Rotator Cuff & Shoulder Surgery
Gentle passive range of motion begins within first week
Delayed strength work until tissue has healed (~4–6 weeks)
✅ Spine Surgery (Lumbar, Cervical)
Early movement critical to avoid stiffness and deconditioning
Focus on posture, walking tolerance, and gentle mobility drills
Concerned about driving or travel after surgery? We come to you.
🏡 Why In-Home Concierge Physical Therapy Is the Ideal Post-Surgery Option
Getting to a clinic in the first week or two after surgery is:
Physically challenging
Logistically stressful
Often unsafe for seniors or those with mobility limitations
That’s why our clients choose Elliott Concierge Physical Therapy:
We provide doctor-level rehab in the comfort and privacy of your home in Naples, Bonita Springs, and surrounding areas.
You receive:
100% focused attention from a Doctor of Physical Therapy
Safe, hands-on care — no shared equipment or waiting rooms
Flexible scheduling, including within 48 hours post-op
View our post-op packages to see how we simplify your recovery without insurance headaches.
🧑⚕️ What to Expect from Your First Session
Home setup assessment
Education on mobility, precautions, and pain management
Gentle hands-on techniques
Personalized movement plan
Ongoing communication with your surgeon if needed
You can also learn more about how we work one-on-one with post-surgical patients here.
📞 Ready to Start Healing?
If you’ve recently had surgery — or are planning one — you don’t have to wait to begin recovery. And you don’t have to leave home to do it.
Elliott Concierge Physical Therapy brings doctor-led, in-home rehab directly to you.
👉 Request a private consultation today
📍 Serving Naples, Bonita Springs, Estero, and surrounding communities in Southwest Florida.
📱 Or call/text us at 305-482-3461
