POST-SURGERY EXERCISES Before you begin exercising consult your HTC and have a look at the guidelines for stretching and exercising after a bleed in Physical Activity and Joints. EXERCISING AFTER SURGERY Your physicians will determine when you are ready to begin exercise. Control of the bleeding after surgery is the first priority. You must have factor coverage before exercising or participating in a physical therapy program. Consult with your hematologist for the proper dosage and frequency. After your surgery, a physical therapist will provide an evaluation of your status. This may include active and passive range of motion, strength assessment, mobility and gait assessment, and your body structure, including weight and waist measurement. There may be weight bearing restrictions or movement restrictions depending on your surgery. Based on your evaluation, your physical therapist will provide an individualized exercise program designed to improve your joint range of motion, increase your muscle strength, and improve your mobility and/or gait. Range of motion exercises will generally be done in sets of 10, although this can be increased or decreased as needed. Generally, your exercise program will progress once you are able to perform 3 sets of 10 without pain or problem. Download stretching programs that your physical therapist may recommend for your joint after surgery or to help with your joint health. Remember to talk to your physical therapist and HTC staff before beginning any of these programs.