Post Surgical Joint Replacement Program
An individualized home exercise program is created to improve strength, range of motion and flexion in the new joint and help the patient return to independence. Total hip and total knee replacement patients discharged directly home from the hospital will receive physical therapy 5-7 times per week for the first two weeks and then visits will decrease as directed by the physician. An occupational therapy referral may be made to address any needed durable medical equipment and supplement the physical therapy treatment plan. Patients returning home from an inpatient therapy program will receive therapy three times a week to continue the progress they have made. Balance and gait training, stair training and mobility are customized for each patient. In addition to the therapy, skilled nursing services are often indicated to evaluate healing, provide pain management, remove staples if appropriate and perform home PT/INR blood testing.
Program Goals:
- Provide a safe transition for the patient from the in-patient facility to the home.
- Educate patients on their surgical procedure and what to expect during the recovery period.
- Obstacles are removed from the patient’s home to ensure safety while moving around the home.
- Increase and build the patient’s strength and endurance
- Individualized Home Exercise Plan will be created with the patient, physician and therapist.
- Maximize patient confidence and independence
An initial home visit by a licensed therapist will be preformed within 24 hours of the patient’s arrival at home.
Therapy Treatments:
- Individualized home exercise program
- Therapeutic exercises to improve trunk and extremity strength
- Joint range of motion
- Balance and gait training
- Stair training
- Bed mobility and transfer training
Home Health aides are also available to assist patients with personal care and assisting the patient towards independence.