Poplar Shopping Centre, Riverclub, Johannesburg
The Weeks After Discharge
Most people leave hospital with a printed sheet of exercises and an outpatient appointment some weeks away. The gap in between is where recovery either goes well or quietly goes wrong — through doing too little, doing too much, or doing the right things incorrectly. It's also the point at which getting to a clinic is the hardest.
Angela rehabs the following post operatively:
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Orthopaedic surgery — knee and hip replacements, fracture fixation
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Neurosurgery surgery—Spinal fusion, discectomy, laminectomy
Frequently Asked Questions
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How soon after surgery should physiotherapy start?
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Usually within the first week or two, and often sooner — follow your surgeon's instruction. Starting early makes a measurable difference.
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Do you follow my surgeon's protocol?
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Yes. Bring your discharge notes and any protocol you were given.
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Do I need a referral?
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No, though your surgeon's notes are helpful.
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If you have surgery scheduled, book before the operation — knowing what happens afterwards makes the first fortnight considerably easier.