Surgery is often just the first step. What comes after is just as important.
Recovery doesn’t end once you leave the hospital. That’s where rehabilitation begins, a vital part of the healing journey that helps you return to daily life with strength and confidence.
At Holistic Strength, we work closely with individuals after surgery, whether they’re recovering from an injury, illness, or planned procedure. From managing pain to rebuilding movement, here’s what you need to know about post-surgical rehabilitation and how our allied health team can support you every step of the way.
The First Days: Rest, Pain Management & Guidance
In the first few days after surgery, your body is focused on healing. You might feel tired, sore, or swollen, and that’s completely normal. Your medical team will give you specific advice on managing discomfort, caring for the surgical site, and safely moving around.
Rest is important, but so is gentle movement (when it’s time). Taking small steps, like changing positions in bed or doing simple breathing exercises, can help prevent complications and get your body ready for rehab.
Moving Forward with Allied Health Support
Once your doctor gives the all-clear, rehabilitation becomes the next focus. Exercise Physiology and Physiotherapy are often key players in this stage. Your allied health practitioner will assess your current function and build a tailored plan to help you:
Regain strength and stability
Improve flexibility and mobility
Reduce pain and prevent future issues
These sessions may involve gentle exercises at first, with gradual progression based on how your body responds. At Holistic Strength, we guide you at your own pace, balancing safety, support, and your long-term goals.
Emotional Health Matters Too
It’s completely normal to feel a mix of emotions during recovery. You may feel anxious, frustrated, or unsure about how long it will take to “get back to normal”.
That’s why we encourage emotional check-ins as part of the rehab process. Our team understands that recovery isn’t just physical, it’s emotional too. Talking with your support network, journaling your progress, or seeking help from a mental health professional can all make a difference.
Don’t Forget Nutrition
Eating well plays a powerful role in recovery. Your body needs fuel, especially protein, vitamins, and minerals, to rebuild after surgery. Staying hydrated and eating balanced meals can speed up healing and keep your energy levels up.
At Holistic Strength, our Dietitian works closely with clients during recovery to support healing through nutrition. Whether it’s managing appetite changes or creating meal plans that promote tissue repair, the right food choices can help you feel stronger, sooner.
Healing Takes Time. And That’s Okay
Recovery after surgery rarely follows a straight line. Some days feel great, others not so much. That’s why it’s important to:
Set small, realistic goals
Celebrate the little wins
Be kind to yourself when progress feels slow
You’re not alone on this journey. Whether it’s returning to work, walking without support, or doing something you love again, our team is here to help you rebuild life after surgery with confidence.
Need support after surgery?
At Holistic Strength, our Exercise Physiologists, Physiotherapists, Occupational Therapists, and Therapy Assistants can support you at every stage of your recovery.
📞 Get in touch with us today to learn how we can support your rehab journey.