As surgery for sarcoma is individual for each patient, rehabilitation will be tailored to each patient accordingly. The information given in this section is a general guide and individual cases should be discussed with your rehabilitation team.

After a diaphyseal replacement you will be seen by a physiotherapist. This is usually the day after surgery.  They will teach you the appropriate exercises to do and start you walking with either crutches or another walking aid. It is very important you do the exercises to make sure you get the best possible function from your new joint. It is also important that you don’t sit with anything (e.g. a pillow) tucked under your knee as this encourages it to stay bent which will stop you from walking properly and also prevents your muscles from working correctly. If you require to climb stairs at home you will also be taught how to do these correctly

You may have some restrictions after surgery.

You will be given exercises to do at home after your discharge and it is extremely important that you do these regularly to make sure you get the best possible outcome after your surgery. You will also be referred for ongoing physiotherapy as an outpatient at a location that is most convenient for you.

It is not always necessary for you to be seen by any other members of the rehabilitation team except for the physiotherapist. However, if you feel that assessment by any of the other team members may be beneficial to you, please speak to either your physiotherapist, Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS) or medical team who will be able to refer you.

You may be able to obtain more specific information about rehabilitation after diaphyseal replacement from the hospital where you are having/have had surgery.