Prehab vs Rehab: What’s the Difference and Why It Matters

When most people think of physiotherapy, they picture someone recovering from an injury, maybe rehabbing a sprained ankle or rebuilding strength after surgery. But physio isn’t just about bouncing back. It’s also about staying ahead.

That’s where prehab comes in.

Prehab vs Rehab: The Basics

Let’s break it down:

Term	What It Means	When It’s Used	Goal
Rehab	Treatment after injury or surgery	Post-injury or post-op	Restore function, reduce pain, return to activity
Prehab	Proactive training to prevent injury or prepare for surgery	Before injury or surgery	Build resilience, improve outcomes, reduce risk

Why Prehab Deserves More Attention

Think of prehab as your body’s insurance policy. It’s about identifying weaknesses, imbalances, or movement patterns that could lead to injury and addressing them before they become a problem.

Prehab isn’t just for elite athletes. It’s for:

• Weekend warriors who want to avoid common injuries like shin splints or tennis elbow

• Office workers with early signs of postural strain or repetitive stress

• Surgical patients preparing for joint replacements, ACL repair, or spinal procedures

• Older adults aiming to maintain mobility and prevent falls

• Anyone who wants to move better, feel stronger, and stay active longer

  
  

Real-world example:

A patient preparing for a knee replacement might start prehab 4–6 weeks before surgery. We focus on strengthening the surrounding muscles, improving range of motion, and building cardiovascular fitness. The result? Faster recovery, less pain, and better long-term outcomes.

Prehab Before Surgery: A Game-Changer

Research shows that patients who engage in prehab before surgery often:

• Recover faster

• Experience less post-op pain

• Regain range of motion sooner

• Regain strength and pre-injury function sooner

• Feel more confident and in control of their recovery

It’s like giving your body a head start on healing.

Rehab: The Comeback Plan

Rehabilitation is what most people associate with physiotherapy and for good reason. Whether you’re recovering from a torn ligament, a car accident, or chronic pain, rehab is about:

• Reducing inflammation and pain

• Restoring strength, range of motion, and coordination

• Rebuilding confidence in movement

• Resorting pre-injury function, including activities of daily living and sport 

• Preventing re-injury

Rehab is tailored to your condition, your goals, and your recovery. It’s not just about healing,  it’s about returning to life stronger than before.

Real-world example:

An athlete recovering from an ACL tear might go through several phases of rehab, from regaining range of motion, to rebuilding strength, to sport-specific drills. Each stage is carefully designed to support safe and effective return to play.

So, Which One Do You Need?

Here’s the truth: you don’t have to choose. Prehab and rehab are two sides of the same coin. One prepare for the future and prevent injury, the other helps you recover from it. Ideally, they work together as a continuum of care that supports you at every stage of your movement journey.

If you’re planning surgery, starting a new sport, or just want to future-proof your body, prehab is a smart move. If you’re recovering from injury or surgery, rehab is your roadmap back to full strength.

 Take the Next Step

Whether you’re training for a marathon, prepping for surgery, or just want to move better in daily life, our team of physiotherapists is here to help. Let’s create a plan that’s tailored to your goals before or after injury.