Many patients think rehab begins after surgery — but what you do before surgery has a major impact on your outcome. Pre-surgery physiotherapy (prehab) helps improve strength, mobility and confidence, setting the stage for a smoother and faster recovery after your procedure.



For patients having surgery through Northern Beaches Hospital, prehab is one of the most effective ways to reduce early pain, support mobility and prepare your body and mind for what’s ahead.

Because BeachLife Physiotherapy works closely with the orthopaedic specialists at Peninsula Orthopaedics, your prehab and post-op care follow clear, unified guidelines. This helps ensure your rehab plan is aligned with your surgeon’s expectations from day one.

Why Prehab Is So Important
Surgery places stress on the body. Entering it in the best possible condition gives you a valuable head start. Prehab commonly focuses on:
• Strengthening the muscles that will protect the joint after surgery
• Improving mobility where safe and indicated
• Reducing swelling and irritation prior to the operation
• Learning the post-op exercises you’ll begin immediately after surgery
• Building confidence by knowing exactly what to expect
• Improving general conditioning and pain control
Patients who complete prehab typically recover faster, move better and feel more confident in the early weeks post-op.

What Prehab Looks Like
Your physio will tailor your program based on your upcoming procedure. This usually includes:
• Strength and activation work
• Range of motion preparation
• Balance or core training where relevant
• Education on mobility aids, weight-bearing and restrictions
• Planning for the first 2–6 weeks after surgery
You’ll also learn how to position yourself, move safely and manage pain effectively after your operation.

Better Coordination With Your Surgeon
Our close working relationship with Peninsula Orthopaedics at Northern Beaches Hospital as well as the surgical teams in other Sydney hospitals ensures your prehab plan aligns with your surgeon’s protocol. This reduces conflicting advice, provides clear expectations and creates a seamless transition from hospital to physiotherapy.

Already Booked In for Surgery?
Starting prehab even 2–4 weeks before surgery can make a meaningful difference. We provide prehab programs at both our Narrabeen and Frenchs Forest clinics, helping patients enter surgery stronger, calmer and better prepared for recovery.

If you have a surgery date coming up, booking prehab early is one of the best steps you can take to improve your outcomes.