Recovering from joint replacement surgery can be an overwhelming experience, but physical therapy plays a vital role in regaining mobility and independence.
Virginian Rehab and Wellness, located in Fairfax and Chantilly, specializes in helping patients recover from knee, hip, shoulder, and other joint replacements. We know that the road to recovery can come with questions, so we've compiled answers to some of the most common ones about physical therapy (PT) after joint surgery.
Here are our patients’ frequently asked questions about joint replacement surgery:
What Should I Do Before My Joint Replacement?
Preparing for your surgery is crucial to ensure a smooth recovery. You can start by adopting healthier habits, such as improving your diet and getting enough sleep. One highly recommended approach is prehabilitation (prehab), a type of physical therapy that begins weeks before surgery.
Studies have shown that individuals who engage in prehab experience faster recovery times. We can help you develop a customized plan to strengthen your body in the weeks leading up to surgery. This preparation helps improve your flexibility and strength, setting the stage for a successful recovery.
When Should I Begin Physical Therapy After Surgery?
We recommend starting physical therapy as soon as possible, usually within the first week after surgery.
It’s important to book your post-op PT sessions before the surgery so you’re ready to go once you're discharged. Depending on your overall health and the type of joint replacement, you may start with inpatient therapy at the hospital or rehab facility, followed by outpatient PT at one of our clinics in Fairfax or Chantilly.
How Will Physical Therapy Help Me Recover?
Physical therapy is essential for recovering after a joint replacement because it targets key areas like:
Strengthening muscles around the joint
Improving range of motion
Reducing pain and swelling
Our physical therapists use a combination of manual therapy, targeted exercises, and advanced technologies like NEUBIE therapy to enhance recovery. These treatments are designed to help you restore full function and minimize discomfort during the healing process.
Will I Be Able to Do My Everyday Activities After Surgery?
Immediately after joint replacement surgery, performing daily tasks can be challenging.
Activities like getting dressed, bathing, or moving around your home may require some adjustment. This is where occupational therapy (OT) comes into play. An occupational therapist can teach you how to modify your environment and tasks, making it easier to return to independent living.
For example, after a knee replacement, you may find it difficult to bend your leg, which can make standing or walking challenging. Similarly, a hip replacement can make simple actions like sitting up in bed uncomfortable. With OT, you'll learn strategies and techniques to manage these tasks safely and comfortably.
What Should I Expect During Post-Op Physical Therapy?
Your PT sessions will be tailored to your specific needs and goals. Generally, therapy begins with gentle exercises to restore range of motion and increase blood flow to the affected area. As you progress, you'll work on strengthening the muscles surrounding the new joint.
A typical physical therapy session might include:
Stretching and mobility exercises
Strengthening routines targeting specific muscle groups
Manual therapy to reduce stiffness and improve mobility
Use of therapeutic equipment like the Theracycle to improve endurance without stressing the joint
How Long Does Joint Replacement Recovery Take?
Recovery timelines vary depending on the type of surgery and individual factors such as your age and general health. For instance:
Total knee replacement patients often require up to 12 weeks of therapy to regain full mobility.
Partial knee replacements may heal more quickly, typically within 6 weeks.
Hip and shoulder replacements also have varied recovery times, often taking 3 to 6 months for full recovery.
Your therapist will monitor your progress and adjust your therapy plan as needed to help you reach your recovery goals.
How Can I Maintain My Progress After Physical Therapy?
Once you’ve completed your formal PT sessions, continuing with a home exercise program is critical to maintaining the progress you’ve made. Your therapist will provide you with exercises to perform at home, ensuring that you strengthen the joint and avoid future complications.
Many patients find it helpful to stay active by walking, swimming, or engaging in low-impact activities that keep the muscles around the joint strong.
Additionally, routine follow-up visits to your PT can help address any issues that arise and prevent muscle imbalances from developing. We encourage patients to maintain an active lifestyle post-recovery to support long-term joint health.
How Do I Get Started With Physical Therapy in Northern Virginia?
If you’re preparing for a joint replacement or have recently undergone surgery, Virginian Rehab and Wellness is here to help guide you through every step of your recovery. Our physical therapists have extensive experience helping patients in Fairfax, Chantilly, and the surrounding Northern Virginia areas get back to their daily lives as quickly and safely as possible.
We take pride in offering personalized recovery plans tailored to meet the unique needs of each patient. From pre-surgical prehab to post-surgical physical therapy, our team is committed to helping you regain mobility and live a more active, pain-free life.
Ready to Start Your Recovery Journey?
We’re dedicated to providing the best care for your joint replacement recovery. Contact our clinics in Fairfax or Chantilly, VA, today to schedule an initial consultation and learn more about how we can support your healing process.
Whether you’re recovering from a knee, hip, or shoulder replacement, our goal is to help you achieve a full recovery and get back to doing the things you love.