Maximize Your Total Joint Replacement Rehabilitation
Are you scheduled for a total joint replacement? These major surgeries can be life-changing for people suffering from extreme joint pain. However, without comprehensive physical therapy afterward, you might not have the outcome you expect.
Fortunately, the team at Hands of Hope is here to guide you through the rehabilitation process, from addressing pain and swelling in the early stages to functional training and return-to-activity schedules several months out.
Understanding Total Joint Replacement Surgeries
A total joint replacement is a procedure in which an orthopedic surgeon replaces damaged joint tissue with a prosthesis designed to mimic natural movement. These surgeries can help reduce the pain and disability brought on by severe joint pain, which usually stems from arthritis or injury.
The most commonly performed total joint replacements are hip and knee replacements. However, doctors can also replace the shoulders, wrists, or ankles.
People generally utilize total joint replacements when other interventions haven’t produced the desired results. They’re major surgeries that have lengthy recovery and rehabilitation times. For example, a total knee replacement might take 2-3 months to heal and up to a year to fully rehabilitate.
The Role of Physical Therapy in TJR Rehabilitation
Physical therapy is essential after undergoing a total joint replacement. The sooner you can begin moving the joint, the better your surgical outcomes will be.
Our team will develop a customized treatment program that typically includes the following:
- Pain Modalities: We can help you manage pain and discomfort through manual therapy and other pain-relieving modalities, particularly after the surgical site has healed and you’ve begun rehabilitation.
- Advanced Pain Management: If your post-surgical pain is particularly severe, our physicians can develop an advanced pain management program using joint injections and other techniques so you can focus on rehabilitation.
- Improve Mobility: We’ll help improve the range of motion and reduce swelling in your affected joint, first through joint mobilizations and then targeted mobility exercises. Early mobility work also helps reduce the likelihood of pain and restriction in the future.
- Build Strength: Increasing strength in your affected limb is essential to helping you return to the activities you love. We’ll show you tailored exercises that suit your needs.
- Restore Function: Finally, we’ll guide you through functional training to ensure you can perform the movements you need for work and play. If applicable, we can also help you improve balance and stability.
A total joint replacement is just the beginning of your journey. Find a guiding hand with the physical therapists at Hands of Hope. Call us today to learn more!
Your Next Steps…
Request An Appointment
Receive A Custom Plan of Care
Work Hard and Progress In Your Recovery
Recover & Enjoy Life Pain-Free!