surgical support
Newcastle Physical Therapy
Surgery is just one step in recovery — how you prepare and rehabilitate can make all the difference. At Action Physiotherapy, we provide physical therapy in Newcastle to support both pre-operative preparation and post-surgical rehabilitation. Our experienced team works with clients recovering from joint replacements, orthopaedic procedures and spinal surgeries, with treatment plans tailored to surgical type, medical history and individual mobility goals.
Before surgery, we help build strength and confidence to support recovery. After surgery, we focus on restoring movement, reducing discomfort and rebuilding functional capacity over time. Our team collaborates with GPs and specialists to make sure your treatment stays aligned with medical advice. To book an appointment, call (02) 4940 8300 or schedule online.
Pre-Surgery Preparation
Post-Op Mobility Plans
Individualised Recovery Programs
Tailored Plans
Rehabilitation That Matches Your Recovery
Physical therapy after surgery isn’t one-size-fits-all. We take the time to understand your procedure, limitations and recovery timeline, then build a plan that fits you, not the other way around.
Our care includes:
- Mobility and balance retraining
- Joint mobilisation and range-of-motion work
- Pain and swelling management
- Muscle strengthening and gait correction
- Ongoing monitoring and progression support
If you’re preparing for surgery or working through post-operative rehab, we’re here to guide you through every stage of recovery — one step at a time.
Maintaining progress
Staying on Track Between Sessions
Progress doesn’t just happen in the clinic — it happens every day through consistent movement, mindfulness and smart recovery strategies. After surgery, those in-between days can make all the difference to your long-term outcome. That’s why we place so much emphasis on education and guided support.
We’ll show you how to maintain momentum safely with personalised home-based exercises, posture tips, and recovery pacing. We can also liaise with your surgeon or GP if needed to ensure your program stays aligned with your broader care plan. With the right information and structure, you’ll feel more confident managing your recovery between appointments and more in control of your return to activity.
FAQ
Everything You Need To Know
Why is physical therapy important before surgery?
Pre-surgery physical therapy, often called 'prehab', helps improve strength, mobility and cardiovascular fitness before an operation. This can lead to shorter hospital stays, faster recovery and fewer complications post-surgery. It also helps patients understand their rehab plan in advance, which can reduce anxiety and improve confidence going into surgery.
How soon after surgery can I start physical therapy?
The timing depends on the type of surgery, but physical therapy often begins within days — sometimes even hours — of the procedure. Early movement can help prevent stiffness, reduce blood clot risk and support the healing process. Your surgeon and physiotherapist will determine the safest timeline to begin.
What types of exercises are included in post-operative rehab?
Post-surgical rehab may include gentle range-of-motion exercises, strength training, walking drills and functional movements designed to rebuild normal activity levels. Therapy is customised to the type of surgery and the individual’s goals, ensuring progress happens safely and gradually over time.
Does Medicare cover physiotherapy treatment?
With the introduction of the Chronic Disease Management (CDM) scheme, your doctor may now refer for up to five Allied Health services per year.
Is the appointment free?
- While we would love to help you out with free treatment, unfortunately, we cannot bulk bill Medicare for Physiotherapy at our practice, so there will always be a gap payment.
How does the Medicare EPC rebate process work?
- It’s a tricky process- the joys of working with a government body!
- At our practice, the first step is actually to pay the full fee upfront but don’t worry, we use your card that has either a savings or cheque account to refund $56.00 back onto your account from Medicare which will arrive within the day or at the very latest, early the next day!
Remember to bring your Medicare card and any other paperwork relevant to your appointment.
