Rehabilitation After Joint Replacement

Our joints wear out over time for a variety of reasons. Whether a result of a family history, previous injuries or surgeries, or a lifetime of activity, the simple fact is that most Americans will develop some degree of osteoarthritis (OA). OA is simply the wear and eventual breakdown of cartilage, the tough, slippery covering at the ends of our bones. Particularly susceptible to this breakdown in cartilage are our large weight bearing joints (the ankle, knee, and hip), as well as excessively mobile joints like the shoulder.

Joint replacements have been performed successfully since the early 1970s, but surgical techniques and materials continue to evolve, as do rehabilitation protocols. The net result is that people are resuming a high level of function following these procedures, and the replaced joints are lasting longer.

Over the years, the therapists at Atlantic Physical Therapy have helped literally thousands of people recover from joint replacement surgery. Those with shoulder replacements have been able to return to activities such as swinging a golf club or tossing a ball with their grandchildren. Our knee and hip replacement clients have resumed recreational tennis, paddle boarding, and gardening. Our ankle replacement clients walk without pain or restriction. Whatever your individual goals may be, we can help you recover from post-operative pain and swelling, restore motion and strength to the involved limb and help you return to your optimal level of function.