What Happens After A Joint Replacement?

Physicians and therapists alike recommend that a patient who has undergone any type of joint replacement begin a therapy program as soon as possible and many patients will be assisted out of bed, walk down the hall or begin moving the joint the very day or day after surgery. Hospitals will begin appropriate therapy programs under the orthopedic surgeons' guidelines and orders. This may include physical, occupational and speech therapy programs. The length of these programs will vary according to many factors including but not limited to:

  • Type of joint replacement
  • Age of patient
  • Other comorbid diagnosis
  • Medical regimen
  • Cooperation of patient
  • Discharge plans for patient
  • Personal patient goals
  • Patient response to outcomes and goals