Joint replacement surgery—whether it’s a hip or knee—can be life-changing, offering relief from chronic pain and restoring function. But surgery is only one part of the journey. What happens in the hours, days, and first few weeks after your procedure plays a critical role in determining how successful your outcome will be.
As a physical therapist and program manager of the Total Joint Center at The Miriam Hospital, I’ve seen firsthand that early, guided therapy is one of the most important factors in recovery.
Starting in the hospital: early mobility is key
Physical therapy begins immediately after surgery—often the same day or the morning after. While this may surprise some patients, early mobility is vital and safe.
In the hospital, physical therapists focus on:
- Getting you moving safely (getting out of bed, standing, walking, stairs)
- Teaching proper use of assistive devices such as a walker or cane
- Introducing exercises to improve circulation, reduce stiffness, and begin restoring strength and range of motion
This early movement helps reduce the risk of complications such as blood clots, pneumonia, and joint stiffness.
What is prehab?
The enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) "prehab" approach is about optimizing your physical and mental health before joint replacement surgery. The aim is to diminish the impact of surgery on the body, to minimize stress and to treat pain proactively.
With the ERAS program, most patients return to the normal activities of daily living much faster and with much less pain.
The first few weeks after joint replacement surgery
Once discharged, the focus shifts to continuing progress at home or in an outpatient setting. The first few weeks are critical for establishing good movement patterns and preventing setbacks. Physical therapy during this phase emphasizes:
- improving range of motion
- gradually increasing strength
- enhancing balance and stability
- progressing walking distance and independence
Consistency is key. Patients who follow their prescribed program and move frequently throughout the day tend to recover more quickly and achieve better long-term outcomes. It’s recommended that patients do what they can to prepare their home before joint replacement surgery to make consistent movement and recovery even easier.
Joint replacement surgery is one of the most successful surgical procedures—but physical therapy drives the recovery. From the first steps in the hospital to regaining independence at home, early and consistent mobility is essential for:
- Reducing complications
- Restoring mobility and strength
- Promoting safety
- Achieving the best possible outcome
If you or a loved one is preparing for joint replacement, remember—recovery is an active process which requires focused attention and dedication. Your physical therapist will help guide you through this process. The best outcomes are achieved by those who remain motivated and determined to get back to their goals.
Let us help you get back to moving without pain or discomfort—visit the Total Joint Center online or call 401-793-5852.
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