Gym-Based Rehabilitation

The Joint Replacement Center has a dedicated therapy gym near the patients' rooms. The gym-based rehabilitation therapy staff is focused solely on joint replacement patients. Patients are encouraged to dress in their own workout clothing, such as a t-shirt, sweatpants or shorts, and sneakers. Patients can take full advantage of their therapy time by dressing comfortably and being ready to begin therapy when they arrive at the therapy gym.

Patients undergoing joint replacement surgery are typically well patients having an elective procedure. With multiple patients undergoing therapy at once, camaraderie develops among patients. They encourage one another and can see an exercise that may have been challenging on day one is far easier the following day. Patients learn from watching others rehabilitate and listening to other patients' questions.

Rehabilitation begins at the bedside

Patients becoming active quickly and safely is key to preventing complications after joint replacement surgery. Rehabilitation therapy at the Joint Replacement Center typically starts soon after a patient is settled in his or her room after surgery. Nurses and rehabilitation therapists evaluate a patient as the patient sits at the edge of the bed, stands beside the bed, and participates in exercises designed to increase the strength and range of motion of the joint.

Beginning physical therapy soon after surgery can strengthen the muscles that protect a joint. Muscles are the first line of defense, so the stronger they are, the more likely the stress will be absorbed in the muscles instead of the ligaments and joints, which helps speed recovery.

Learn more about therapy and lifestyles.