With the help of a physical therapist and other specialists, you’ll learn the best and safest way to walk, bathe, get dressed, and take care of yourself. And you’ll get exercises to make your muscles stronger and help you improve the way you move the part of your body where you had your surgery.

Why You Need Rehab

It can speed your recovery no matter what kind of operation you’ve had, be it a joint replacement, heart surgery, or a procedure to treat cancer. You’ll likely begin while you’re still in the hospital. A therapist will help you get out of bed and start to walk again. You’ll also do other exercises to get you ready to go home.

After you’re released from the hospital, you might finish your recovery with a stay at a rehab center. Depending on the type of surgery you had, you might be there for a few weeks or months. Or your doctor may suggest you visit an “outpatient” center, which means you live at home but get therapy during regular appointments one or more times a week. Sometimes a therapist will come to your home.