Physical Therapy Before and After Surgery
Surgery is a big step. Catalyst's physical therapists help you get ready for it, then guide your recovery with clear milestones, steady encouragement, and a plan built around your procedure.
Why preparing for surgery matters
As physical therapists, Catalyst's team works to help people avoid surgery whenever possible. When conservative treatment isn't enough, surgery may be the right next step.
Even a planned surgery can feel daunting. You know there will be pain afterward, along with time off your feet and hard work to get your strength back. Preparing yourself and the people who'll support you can make the road ahead easier, and that's where Catalyst's team comes in.
How we support your recovery
Starting before surgery
Catalyst encourages every surgical patient to begin physical therapy before the operation, because it can make the journey easier. If there isn't time for that, you can still start with us after surgery.
Working with your surgeon
It's common practice for Catalyst's therapists to talk with your surgeon. That way they fully understand your procedure and can set milestones for restoring function.
Small goals that keep you going
Recovery takes time, and burnout is real. The team keeps things positive and sets frequent, small goals so you can see your progress and stay on track.
Recovering fully, not just "well enough"
The aim is a complete recovery that doesn't rely on compensations, which are movement workarounds that can lead to future dysfunction, poor performance, or injury.
Common surgeries we support
Total Joint Replacement
Hip, knee, and shoulder
Spine
Discectomy, fusion, laminectomy, foraminotomy, disc replacement
Shoulder
Rotator cuff repair, SLAP repair, Bankart repair, subacromial decompression, AC joint repair, biceps tendon repair
Hip
Labral debridement/refixation, synovectomy, CAM impingement decompression
Knee
ACL, PCL, MCL, and LCL repairs; meniscal repair; meniscectomy; plica excision; lateral release; microfracture
Ankle & Foot
Ligament repairs, Achilles tendon repair, bunionectomy, Morton's neuroma
Don't see your procedure listed? Call us or book a Discovery Visit and we'll talk it through.
Not sure where to start? Choose the option that fits you
Call our central line
Reach the office team at (619) 501-2195. It's the fastest way to schedule.
Call our central line
Reach the office team at (619) 501-2195. It's the fastest way to schedule.
Ask a PT with a free Discovery Visit
Book a no-charge, 20–30 minute conversation with a physical therapist. Together you'll figure out whether Catalyst is the right next step, with no pressure and no obligation.
What to Expect From Care
Catalyst encourages it whenever possible, since preparing beforehand can make recovery easier. If your surgery is coming up soon or has already happened, you can still start afterward.
Yes, that's common practice at Catalyst. It helps your therapist understand your procedure and set the right recovery milestones.
Book a free 20–30 minute Discovery Visit with a physical therapist to talk through your situation first.
Within one business day.
Get ready for surgery, or get back on track after it.
Talk with a Catalyst physical therapist about your procedure and your goals.