At Charlottesville Orthopaedic Center, we believe healing doesn’t stop when the surgery ends; it’s just the beginning of your recovery journey. Our post-operative physical therapy protocols are designed to help you regain strength, mobility, and confidence as safely and efficiently as possible.
Whether you’ve undergone joint replacement, ligament repair, arthroscopic surgery, or another orthopedic procedure, our customized rehabilitation plans ensure you get the support you need every step of the way.
What Are Post-Operative Protocols?
Post-operative protocols are structured guidelines your physical therapist follows to help you recover after surgery. These protocols are created in close collaboration with your orthopedic surgeon to ensure a smooth, consistent, and evidence-based path toward full recovery.
Each protocol outlines specific goals for your rehab timeline, including:
- Pain management
- Range of motion goals
- Strength-building exercises
- Return-to-function milestones
No two recovery paths are identical. That’s why your plan is always tailored to your unique surgery, body, and lifestyle.
Surgeries We Commonly Support
At Charlottesville Orthopaedic Center, we provide expert post-op rehabilitation for a wide range of orthopedic procedures. Some of the most common surgeries we support include total hip and knee replacements, ACL reconstructions, rotator cuff repairs, and spinal surgeries. Our physical therapists are trained in the latest recovery techniques and understand the biomechanics behind each surgical procedure, allowing us to deliver care that is both effective and tailored to your needs.
We also offer support for less common procedures, such as meniscus repairs, ankle ligament reconstruction, and shoulder stabilization surgeries. No matter what type of surgery you’ve had, we’re committed to helping you recover as fully and quickly as possible.
What to Expect During Rehab
Your rehabilitation journey typically begins with an initial evaluation, where we assess your surgical site, range of motion, strength, and overall mobility. From there, we build a treatment plan that aligns with your surgeon’s guidelines and your personal goals.
In the early stages of recovery, therapy may focus on gentle movement to reduce stiffness, manage swelling, and promote circulation. As healing progresses, we gradually introduce more active exercises to improve flexibility, strength, and coordination. You’ll also receive education on proper movement patterns, posture, and safe ways to perform everyday tasks to avoid reinjury.
Throughout your therapy, we remain in close contact with your surgeon, updating your protocol as needed to match your healing progress. This team-based approach ensures you receive comprehensive, consistent care from start to finish.
Why Choose Us for Your Post-Operative Physical Therapy?
At Charlottesville Orthopaedic Center, we pride ourselves on offering individualized care in a supportive, professional environment. Our therapists take the time to get to know you, not just your injury or procedure, so we can create a treatment plan that fits your lifestyle and goals.
We believe in clear communication and collaboration. Your therapist works directly with your surgeon to ensure your post-op protocol is aligned with your recovery timeline. You’ll never feel rushed or overlooked. Instead, you’ll be treated like a partner in your own healing process, with a team that’s genuinely invested in your success.
Start Your Recovery Today
If you’ve recently had surgery or have one scheduled, we invite you to take the next step by starting your rehabilitation with our trusted team. Call us today or schedule your consultation online to begin your recovery journey with confidence.
Our Providers
The providers at Charlottesville Orthopaedic Center are highly skilled and experienced in their respective specialties.
Patient Resources
Explore our Patient Resource center for helpful information about our expert team, comprehensive services, informative blog, and how to easily connect with us.
Complimentary Movement Screening
Charlottesville Orthopaedic Center offers complimentary movement screenings to assess your movement, identify imbalances, and help prevent injuries. Whether you’re active, recovering, or want to move better, our expert phsycial therapists provide personalized recommendations for your long-term mobility and wellness.
Contact UsWhat Our Patients Say
“I went to Dr. Nielsen for a second opinion on a dislocated hand. My first surgeon recommended surgery without much consideration. A friend suggested Dr. Nielsen, who spent time reviewing my case and concluded that I only needed rehabilitation. He was right! He's an excellent doctor.”
So helpful!! They got me in quickly after a bad ER experience. Everyone is so nice and will explain things and set up a game plan.
Very responsive, same day service. Staff is knowledgeable, friendly, and thorough when communicating complex medical information.
