Physical therapy and occupational therapy play a key role in the rehabilitation of people who have received a total joint replacement of the knee, hip, or shoulder. Joint replacement physical therapy can also benefit people who are limited in their daily lives due to joint pain from all types of arthritis.

Physical therapy helps restore range of motion, strength, mobility, flexibility, endurance, self-care skills, and the ability to perform prior activities. A physical therapist can provide you with the education needed to walk and climb stairs, get in and out of a chair or car, tie your shoes, and do other daily activities. Assistive devices such as canes and walkers are also common with joint replacement surgery, and Athletico therapists can identify the correct device to meet your specific needs.

Often, total joint replacement surgery is recommended when people have:

Severe joint damage due to osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis
Avascular Necrosis (AVN) of the hip
Congenital malalignment or dislocation
Severe knee, hip, or shoulder pain causing difficulty with mobility, daily activities, or occupational requirements
Severe trauma to the joint that cannot be addressed through less invasive methods