Physical and Occupational therapy for Total Joint replacements.
Optimizing recovery through physical and occupational therapy
Total joint replacements, such as hip, knee, and shoulder replacements, are life-changing surgeries that restore mobility and reduce pain. However, the journey to full recovery begins long before surgery and continues well afterward. This is where prehabilitation (prehab) and rehabilitation (rehab) play critical roles. Choosing Advanced Physical Therapy & Sports Medicine can reduce the pain in the short term and set you up for long-term success.
What Is Prehab?
Prehab is a proactive approach to prepare your body for surgery. It focuses on strengthening muscles, improving range of motion, and enhancing overall physical conditioning to:
Reduce recovery time after surgery.
Lower the risk of complications.
Improve post-surgical outcomes.
Your physical therapist will tailor a prehab program to your specific needs, targeting the joint to be replaced and addressing surrounding muscle groups. For instance:
Hip Replacement Prehab: Focuses on strengthening the glutes, quads, and core while improving hip mobility.
Knee Replacement Prehab: Prioritizes quad activation, hamstring flexibility, knee stability,and core and hip strengthening.
Shoulder Replacement Prehab: Emphasizes rotator cuff strengthening, shoulder blade mobility, thoracic spine mobility,y and strengthening muscles of the upper back and neck to tolerate the sling.
Following our Prepare, Practice, and Organize framework, your physical therapist will help you develop a plan for a triumphant return home from the hospital. Click here to read more on our blog: ‘7 Tips and Tricks to Prepare for Surgery.’
What to Expect from Rehab
Rehabilitation is essential for restoring function and achieving the best possible outcomes after your joint replacement surgery. Rehab programs typically progress through three phases:
Early Recovery (Weeks 1-4)
Focus: Pain management, swelling reduction, and gentle range of motion exercises.
Techniques: Ice therapy, assisted movement exercises, and gentle muscle activation.
Intermediate Recovery (Weeks 4-12)
Focus: Regaining strength, improving mobility, and restoring functional movement patterns.
Techniques: Gradual strengthening exercises, balance training, and weight-bearing activities.
Advanced Recovery (Months 3-6)
Focus: Returning to daily activities and building endurance.
Techniques: Advanced strengthening, sport-specific training (if applicable), and functional movement drills.
Your physical therapist will guide you through these stages, ensuring exercises are performed safely and effectively. Timelines may vary depending on the surgery, level of conditioning prior to your joint replacement, and postoperative protocol.
Benefits of Physical Therapy in Joint Replacement Recovery
Whether you’re preparing for or recovering from a hip, knee, or shoulder replacement, or any other replacement, physical therapy provides:
Reduction in pain and stiffness.
Improved joint mobility and range of motion.
Strengthened muscles to support the new joint.
Faster return to daily activities and hobbies you love.
Prevention of future injuries by improving movement patterns.
Why Choose Our Team for Prehab and Rehab?
At Advanced Physical Therapy & Sports Medicine, we specialize in personalized care for joint replacement patients. Our experienced therapists:
Collaborate closely with your surgeon to develop customized plans.
Provide one-on-one guidance during every session.
Use the latest techniques and equipment to ensure optimal outcomes.
Whether you’re planning for surgery or starting your recovery journey, we’re here to help you move better and live better.
Take the First Step Toward Recovery Today Contact us to learn more about our prehab and rehab programs for hip, knee, and shoulder replacements.
Let’s work together before and after surgery to get you back to the activities you love as quickly as possible!
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All of our clinics specialize in helping you achieve your goals following surgery. Find the closest location to you and schedule your appointment or free screen today!