Recovering from surgery? Here’s what you need to know
Recovering from surgery isn’t just about resting up and waiting it out. It’s about getting through the small moments, the quiet days at home and the “is this normal?” thoughts that tend to pop up once you’re back on the couch.
To help, we asked Luke Foster from nib’s clinical team to share their practical, real‑world tips for getting back on track after surgery.
Getting moving after surgery
When people think about moving after surgery, they often focus on the big milestones – walking further, getting back to the gym or returning to work. What tends to matter just as much are the movements you don’t really notice, like standing up from the couch, sitting back down again or reaching for your phone.
“People don’t always expect how much energy those small movements can take,” says Luke. “After surgery, especially joint surgery, they can feel harder than they look.”
A good place to start is making sure your home is set up to support easy movement, like keeping everyday items within reach and clearing walkways. It can also help to know ahead of time what rehabilitation support you might need. For eligible nib members who’ve had a hip or knee replacement, Orthopaedic Rehab at Home1 may be an option where clinically appropriate.
“Remember to pace yourself,” Luke says. “Try grouping tasks together when you’re already on your feet but give yourself permission to stop when you need to. Recovery isn’t a race.”
Looking after your mental health during recovery
Luke says changes in mood are one of the most common surprises for patients after surgery.
“Even when surgery goes well, people can often feel flat or frustrated once they’re home,” Luke explains. “You’re less mobile, routines are disrupted and days can start to blend together.”
Looking after your mental health is just as important as your physical recovery, so if you notice any changes in the way you’re thinking or feeling, the best thing you can do is seek professional support from your GP, psychologist or a mental health support organisation.
Post-surgery boredom-busters
It sounds nice at first, having nowhere to be and plenty of time to fill. But being stuck at home to recover after surgery can make even the calmest person feel a little stir‑crazy.
“People often line up big projects or promise themselves they’ll finally learn a new skill,” says Luke, “then realise they don’t quite have the energy or focus they expected.”
That’s why it can help to have a few easy options ready. The kind of things you can dip into without much effort and walk away from whenever you need.
Familiar TV shows you’ve already seen. Podcasts or audiobooks you can listen to with your eyes closed. A puzzle on the coffee table or a magazine you can flick through. Even short catch‑ups with friends or family can break up the day.
“It might not sound like much, but staying connected in small ways can lift your mood more than you expect,” says Luke.
Managing hospital paperwork and admin
When you’re focused on resting and recovering, it really helps if the paperwork and admin feel easier to deal with.
You might receive a few hospital or doctor’s bills while you’re at home and sorting them out can feel like a lot when your energy is low. If you’re with nib, hospital claims can be managed online or through the nib app, so you can manage your admin from the comfort of the couch.
There’s also guidance available to help you understand hospital bills, make claims and know what to expect after you leave hospital. It’s there to take some of the stress out of post‑hospital admin, so you can keep your focus on recovery.
Getting the right care and support after hospital
Before you go home, your specialist should talk you through what your recovery plan looks like and what support you may need along the way. That might include follow‑up appointments, recommended exercises, medication or other care to support your healing. Don’t be afraid to ask questions and make sure you’re clear on what’s expected of you once you’re home, and who to contact if something doesn’t feel right.
When it’s recommended by your doctors and specialists, you may also need to use additional health services to support your recovery. That’s where your Extras cover can come in handy, allowing you to claim on things like physiotherapy or other approved services as you get back on your feet.
Depending on your situation and eligibility, nib’s Health Care at Home2 services may also be an option. These programs support you to receive ongoing care and treatment at home, where clinically appropriate, in a familiar and comfortable environment, while staying connected to your healthcare team.
Have more questions about pre- or post-hospital visits? Check out our Going to Hospital page for more information.
The information contained in this article is provided as general information only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. For personalised medical advice, always consult your qualified healthcare professional.
1The member's treating team will determine whether Orthopaedic Rehab at Home is suitable to facilitate an early discharge from hospital. This will occur where the same level of rehabilitation can be adequately provided in the comfort of the home.
2Available to eligible nib members who’ve held Hospital Cover for 12 months and served their relevant waiting periods. Additional criteria vary according to each program. Contact us for more information and to confirm your eligibility for a program.