Pre- & post-surgical rehab · Knee replacement
Knee Replacement Physiotherapy at Home in Oakville, Burlington & Milton
Helena Greyvenstein · Physiotherapist · Reviewed October 3, 2026Knee replacement physiotherapy at home makes a lot of sense when you can't drive and the stairs feel like a mountain. Physiotherapist Helena Greyvenstein provides rehab before and after knee replacement at home in Oakville, Burlington and Milton.
Your plan follows your surgeon's protocol, whether you've had a total or partial knee replacement. It's part of our in-home physiotherapy service.
Surgeries
Rehab for total and partial knee replacement
- Total knee replacement
- Partial (unicompartmental) knee replacement
- Revision knee replacement
- Knee replacement on both sides
Every surgeon has their own rehab protocol. Have your discharge papers and any exercise sheets from the hospital handy, and your plan will be built around them. Had ACL or meniscus surgery instead? See ACL and meniscus surgery rehab.
Prehab
Physiotherapy before a knee replacement
Getting stronger before surgery is called prehabilitation, or prehab. Studies suggest exercise before a knee replacement can improve strength and function before the operation and may help a little with early recovery, though the benefits after surgery are modest.
Prehab is also a chance to set up your home: clear walkways, check chair and toilet heights, and practise with a walker or crutches before you need them.
Rehab
Physiotherapy after a knee replacement
Rehab after a knee replacement moves through stages. Timelines depend on your surgeon and how you're healing, but it usually focuses on:
- Swelling and painManaging swelling and pain so you can move, exercise and sleep.
- Bending and straighteningGetting your knee range of motion back, especially full straightening.
- Walking and stairsSafe walking with an aid, then without, plus stairs and getting in and out of chairs, beds and cars.
- Strength and balanceBuilding the thigh, hip and calf muscles that support your new knee.
- Back to your lifeWalking the dog, the waterfront trail in Bronte, gardening, golf and the things you had the surgery for.
Helena can also recommend the right walker, cane or crutches for your recovery. If you'll need a walking aid long term, she can help with an Assistive Devices Program application.
Safety
Warning signs after a knee replacement
- Calf pain, swelling, warmth or redness in one leg (a possible blood clot)
- Chest pain or sudden shortness of breath: call 911
- Fever, chills, or a wound that becomes red, hot, swollen or starts draining
- Sudden severe pain, a new inability to put weight on the leg, or numbness in the foot
For anything else that worries you, call your surgeon's office. Your physiotherapy plan always follows your surgeon's instructions.
Service area
Knee replacement physiotherapy near you
Helena provides knee replacement rehab at home across Oakville, including Glen Abbey, Bronte, River Oaks, Joshua Creek and West Oak Trails, plus Burlington and Milton.
Common questions
Knee replacement rehab questions
TimingWhen should I start physiotherapy after a knee replacement?
Usually very soon. Many people start moving with the hospital team on the day of surgery or the day after, then continue with physiotherapy once they're home. Follow your surgeon's instructions on timing.
RecoveryHow long does recovery from a knee replacement take?
It varies. Many people are doing everyday activities within a few months, and improvement often continues for a year or more.
PainIs it normal to have pain during knee replacement rehab?
Some discomfort is expected, especially early on. Exercises are adjusted to keep it manageable. Sudden, severe or worsening pain should be checked by your surgeon.
BendingHow much should my knee bend after a knee replacement?
It's different for everyone and depends on how your knee moved before surgery. Your surgeon and physiotherapist will track your progress. Getting the knee fully straight matters just as much as bending it.
OHIPIs physiotherapy after a knee replacement covered by OHIP?
Some people qualify for publicly funded physiotherapy after surgery, through the hospital or Ontario Health atHome. Doorstep Doc home visits are private, and many extended health plans include physiotherapy, so check your plan.
ReferralDo I need a referral for physiotherapy after a knee replacement?
No, you can book directly in Ontario. Some insurance plans ask for a doctor's note to reimburse physiotherapy, so check your plan.
Get started
Book knee replacement rehab at home
Getting ready for a knee replacement, or just home from one? Start your rehab without the drive.