Total Joint Replacement Therapy

Your recovery from joint replacement surgery should start even before the operation takes place. A joint replacement is an important decision – one that can dramatically reduce joint pain and improve your quality of life.

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Ivy Rehab / Therapy Services / Physical Therapy / Total Joint Replacement

What Is Total Joint Replacement Therapy?

Total joint replacement therapy is a specialized physical therapy program that supports recovery both before and after surgery. At Ivy Rehab, we guide you through pre-operative exercises and post-operative rehabilitation to help you move more confidently and regain independence faster.

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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

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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.

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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.

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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.

FAQs

Can I return home instead of a rehab facility after surgery?

Yes. With pre-surgical therapy, improved balance, and mobility preparation, many patients are able to return home safely instead of going to a rehab facility.

How soon should I start therapy after surgery?

Most patients begin outpatient therapy within a few days to one week after surgery. Early movement is critical for preventing stiffness and regaining mobility.

Why start physical therapy before surgery?

Pre-operative therapy helps prepare your body for surgery, teaches you exercises for home use, and reduces recovery time after surgery. Even one session can make a difference.

Start living your best life.

Begin your journey close to home.

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Check out some of our 4 and 5 star reviews

Excellent

Excel Physical Therapy4.9

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I have gone to Excel several times over the years. I can always count on great treatment from them. My most current route of PT has been with Cosimo Carrieri. I can't say enough nice things about him. He goes that extra step in creating a treatment plan for you. He watches your progress and adjusts your treatment each visit if necessary. He is compassionate, thorough and extremely knowledgeable. He was able to provide a suggestion for a second opinion as well as different options for treatment. The assistants that work with him are just as nice. I left with a home program to follow to continue my treatment and told to check in if I needed anything. I have absolutely no hesitation in recommending Excel for treatment.

Response from the owner:Thank you for taking the time to share this review, it means so much! – The team at Excel Physical Therapy, Hackensack

Staff here are all on the same page and everyone pushes you to your limits. I was worked on by Steve a lot, he understands what you need to get you back healthy! Staff here would not give you more then you can handle. Would recommend to anyone looking for Physical Therapy.

Response from the owner:Thank you for taking the time to share this review, it means so much! – The team at Ivy Rehab Physical Therapy, Blue Bell – South

I chose Ivy Rehab in Island Park based on the recommendation of friends who have been there, and they have not disappointed. From the front desk to John and the other therapists to the young aides, all personnel and staff are unfailing friendly and caring and proficient in what they do. My lead therapist, Joe, has been tremendous in terms of his expertise and caring attitude. And the aides I have worked with the most, Amanda and Alexa, are a true pleasure to deal with. While I do not necessarily love all the stretching and manipulations they make me do (just kidding), I actually enjoy the conversations and comradery during my bi-weekly visits. In short, I would recommend Ivy Rehab Island Park to anyone in need of professional and supportive physical therapy.

Response from the owner:We're thrilled you had such a positive experience, thank you! – The team at Ivy Rehab Physical Therapy – Island Park

I checked in at Ivy PT with a trifecta of back issues: deteriorating discs, herniated discs and bulging discs, resulting in limited mobility/flexibility as well as leg numbness. Fast forward 3 months, and the improvement after receiving excellent care from Victoria is notable. Victoria challenged me when planning my sessions, but was very mindful of my limitations. She, along with those manning the front desk, the PT assistants, and the rest of the therapists, are super friendly and engaging and I highly recommend this facility.

Response from the owner:Thank you for your kind words; we appreciate your feedback! – The team at Ivy Rehab Physical Therapy, Briarcliff Manor

Amazing experience! The staff are all helpful, knowledgable and so kind. I felt like they looked at the whole picture of my health and took that into consideration when developing my rehab plan. As corny as it may sound, I felt "seen"! They provided alot of information that i will continue to use. Highly recommend this facility!

Response from the owner:We value your feedback, thank you for your kind words! – The team at Ivy Rehab Physical Therapy – Norfolk – Granby

I highly recommend coming to Ivyrehab in King of Prussia for your Physical Therapy needs. The entire staff is professional, friendly and patiently answers any questions you may have. And the facility is clean and bright with plenty of parking. You will be well taken care of at Ivyrehab!

Response from the owner:Thank you for the great review, we really appreciate it! – The team at Ivy Rehab Physical Therapy, King of Prussia

My wife is a patient here, and she's always telling me positive things about her experience. She says everyone is friendly and creates an environment that encourages the patients end goal. Seeing her progress over the past couple of weeks, I can attest that that's what goes on. Thanks to everyone there making her bad situation the best it can be!

Response from the owner:Hearing this feedback means so much to us, thank you for sharing! – The team at Ivy Rehab Physical Therapy – Comstock Park

Currently being treated here, Everyone has been great here from the receptionist to the therapist and even other the other patients. I lucked out when workman's comp picked this place they actually treat you like a person and not just another workmans comp case.

Response from the owner:Hearing this feedback means so much to us, thank you for sharing! – The team at Excel Physical Therapy – West Deptford – 1007 Mantua Pke

I just finished 8 weeks of PT at Ivy, and I highly recommend. I genuinely started to enjoy going. I was mainly with Abhishek, and he was very professional but also easy to get along with and kind. He made therapy really fun! I had Maria for a few sessions, as well, and I feel the same about her. I could tell they both enjoyed their jobs and helping people. Each session is leave and felt like I could feel my back getting stronger and stronger each time. By the end, I 100% feel a difference in my strength and stability from the care I received. I’ll recommend them to anyone!!

Response from the owner:Hearing this feedback means so much to us, thank you for sharing! – The team at Ivy Rehab Physical Therapy – Kokomo

ABC is a wonderful environment for your child to learn and grow. ABC has amazing speech, occupational, and physical therapists who help your child improve their skills in a fun and play-based way.

Response from the owner:Thank you for your kind words!

I came here for the first time recently with my nephew for one of his sessions and I can see why he likes coming here! Friendly and hospitable staff, lots of positivity, a fun atmosphere, and genuine care for the kids and their wellbeing. I hope I can take him again soon!

Response from the owner:It’s great to hear this feedback! Thank you for taking the time to share your review! – The team at Ivy Rehab for Kids, Canton

Had my first visit with Matt today, and it was great. He is super knowledgeable, friendly and informative. Certainly glad my primary doctors referred me to this center.

Response from the owner:We value your feedback, thank you for your kind words! – The team at Ivy Rehab Physical Therapy, Monroe

I am very pleased with Ivy Rehab of New Hyde Park. I went there for post-surgical therapy for about five months and had an excellent result. The majority of my sessions were with Noah, who was outstanding. He was genuinely concerned with how I was feeling (before, during, and at the end of each session) and what I could tolerate, while still pushing me to do more and get the best possible outcome. I also worked with Jennifer and Katie – both great too. Everyone in this clinic – the front desk staff, aides, assistants, and therapists – was friendly and helpful. Very highly recommended.

Response from the owner:Thank you for your kind words; we appreciate your feedback! – The team at Ivy Rehab Physical Therapy, New Hyde Park

I absolutely love and adore the staff at ABC. Both of my boys need and have needed their services and I would highly recommend them to anyone needing their services!

Response from the owner:Thank you so much for sharing your thoughts, we appreciate you! – The team at ABC Pediatric Therapy, Cincinnati!

I loved my experience at Excel! I broke my ankle, thought it was a severe sprain, and accidentally walked on it for a month before finally getting an x ray and a boot put on. By the time I got to Aaron at Excel I had no confidence in putting weight on my foot and didn't trust myself to know when I was feeling pain that was part of the healing process or pain like my ankle was broken again. Aaron and the whole team at Excel were incredibly supportive, understanding and informative and helped me gain my confidence back. They are a great team and I always enjoyed my PT visits, the focus on healing both body and mind and how they supported where I was at while also pushing me forward. I liked the more independent approach they let me take, where once I knew the rhythm of my protocol I was able to go at it on my own pace. I 'graduated' today and will miss going!

Response from the owner:Your kind words brighten our day – thank you for sharing! – The team at Excel Physical Therapy – Westfield – East Broad St

I have been coming here for more than 5 years and I have been in very good hands with all of the therapists I have had the pleasure of dealing with. They help me stay in great shape to keep moving and maintaining my mobility. The staff who run the "front office" of this location are always willing to assist you with your needs and appointments. Everyone here are like family to me after many years and new ailments they are always available to get you feeling good! Thank you

Response from the owner:Thank you so much for sharing your thoughts, we appreciate you! – The team at Ivy Rehab Physical Therapy – Hoboken – Midtown

I went to this clinic for knee pain stemming from running and biking and used New York's 30-day rule to get started quickly. They diagnosed me with PFPS and IT band issues and created a home therapy plan with a wide range of exercises. Scheduling was super convenient, and the staff was very responsive. After two months, I am on my way to being pain-free! Megan and Amelia were especially helpful—they listened to my concerns, provided valuable stretching and foam rolling tips, and helped me understand the muscle imbalances contributing to my pain. The environment was very comfortable, and their gym was spacious, so I never had to wait for equipment. I highly recommend this clinic to anyone in the area!

Response from the owner:Thank you for the great review, we really appreciate it! – The team at Park Sports Physical Therapy, Brooklyn – Williamsburg

I’ve come here for two separate and very different injuries and have experienced nothing but exceptional care. I originally switched to here from a Spear location and found it to be incomparably better. Matt and Sophia are really attentive and knowledgeable, and know exactly how to adjust a session’s programming based on how you’re doing. Across the collective 5 months I’ve spent coming here they have also answered the dozens of questions I’ve had so I’ve always felt really informed (about what’s happening, why we do certain things, and what’s next). Hopefully I do not suffer too many more injuries in the future but if I did I’d always come back!

Response from the owner:It's great to hear this feedback! Thank you for taking the time to share your review! – The team at Ivy Rehab Physical Therapy – Brooklyn – Fort Greene

Brian Stinton is very thorough and professional!!!! I look forward to having him get me walking without pain after my knee replacement!!!! All staff seems to be helpful and friendly!!!! Thank you for your evaluation yesterday and looking forward to seeing you after surgery:-) I was super nervous about my surgery but now I am so happy that I am finally getting my Left Knee Replacement , THANK YOU BRIAN !!

Response from the owner:We're so thankful for your kind words and positive review! – The team at Excel Physical Therapy – Hackensack – University Plaza

My son is 4 and has had extreme behavior issues. They have helped with him academically since he was behind and they have helped him gain ways to show his emotions in a more healthy way. I am grateful for all they have done for him. In just the few short months we have been going there I can see a a change in him. So has his daycare/school. At the beginning of this he was on the verge of getting kicked out of daycare because of his outbursts. Now I barely if ever get a bad report or a phone call telling me to come get him.

Response from the owner:Thank you Brittany for your kind words. Thank you for trusting us in the care of your child!

Great information was provided. Careful eval done so as not to miss anything. A plan of action was formed. The PT has a great approach with patients. Looking forward to starting my PT at IvyRehab.

Response from the owner:Thank you so much for your positive feedback, it means the world to us! – The team at Ivy Rehab Physical Therapy – North Wales – Montgomeryville