Total Joint Replacement Therapy

What Is Total Joint Replacement Therapy? 

Your recovery from joint replacement surgery should start before the operation even takes place. Having a joint replacement is an important decision and can dramatically decrease joint pain and improve your quality of life. However, there are often uncertainties about what happens after surgery, and that’s where physical therapy makes a difference. 

Pre-operative physical therapy allows you to meet your rehab team and learn the essentials for a smooth recovery. Research shows that even one pre-operative physical therapy session can reduce post-surgical care needs and lead to faster, more efficient recovery. 

Benefits of Our Total Joint Replacement Program 

• Meet your physical therapy team and tour the facility 
• Learn important home exercises to get a head start on recovery 
• Practice using a walker or cane before surgery (it’s easier to learn in advance) 
• Identify and improve balance or mobility issues to enhance safety 
• Prepare to return home directly after surgery, when possible 
• Get your questions answered about post-operative rehabilitation 
• Set clear recovery goals with your physical therapist 
• Experience faster, more efficient rehabilitation overall 

Key Exercises in Joint Replacement Recovery

Exercises are a vital part of any joint replacement therapy plan. After surgery — especially for the knee or hip— targeted movements help restore mobility, reduce stiffness, and rebuild strength. 

Common exercises may include: 

• Heel slides to improve knee flexibility 
• Leg lifts to activate key muscle groups 
• Strength training tailored to your stage of recovery

These exercises are guided by your physical therapist and adjusted as you progress. A consistent, well-designed routine not only supports healing but may also help reduce reliance on pain medication and promote natural relief over time. 

Who Can Benefit from Joint Replacement Therapy? 

Total joint replacement therapy is ideal for individuals who: 

• Are preparing for a scheduled hip, knee, or shoulder replacement 
• Want to strengthen before surgery for a better recovery (“prehab”) 
• Need guidance using assistive devices like a walker or a cane 
• Prefer to return home instead of a skilled nursing facility post-op 
• Are looking to recover faster and avoid complications 

For active adults or athletes, our athletic therapies can help you safely return to sports, recreational activities, or fitness routines after joint replacement. 

How Total Joint Replacement Therapy Works 

At Ivy Rehab, we support you from pre-op to post-op with a personalized care plan. Our therapists evaluate your needs and help you set achievable goals before surgery, then guide you step by step through recovery afterward. 

Personalized Evaluation 

A one-on-one consultation to review your surgery plan, assess mobility and balance, and outline your rehab goals. 

Pre-Operative Education and Training 

• Learn safe movement techniques 
• Practice using assistive devices 
• Strengthen key muscle groups before surgery 
• Reduce fear and uncertainty about recovery 

Post-Operative Rehabilitation 

• Regain joint range of motion 
• Build strength and mobility 
• Improve balance and walking confidence 
• Prevent complications such as stiffness or readmission 

In some cases, we may also recommend occupational therapy to help you safely perform everyday tasks like bathing, dressing, or cooking during your recovery. 

Why Early Movement Matters After Surgery 

Getting up and moving soon after joint replacement — usually within the first day — can make a big difference in your recovery. Supervised early movement helps: 

• Improve blood circulation 
• Reduce swelling 
• Lower the risk of complications 
• Shorten hospital stays 
• Support better long-term outcomes 

Your surgeon and physical therapist will work together to help you start moving safely and confidently. While some discomfort is normal at first, staying active plays a key role in healing and regaining independence.