If you have received a total joint replacement of the knee, hip, or shoulder, physical therapy can benefit you.
Our clinics provide total joint replacement physical therapy rehabilitation to those whose mobility is limited due to a replacement procedure, or even those who experience impairing joint pain without having gone through replacement surgery yet.
If your joints are a constant source of pain, Mountain Land Physical Therapy Partners can help provide relief, especially given that 700,000 knee replacements are performed annually in the United States, according to the AAOS.
Common reasons for joint replacement
Total joint replacement surgery is typically recommended for those who:
- Have severe joint damage. This is typically due to arthritic debilitation, either from osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis.
- Experienced a severe trauma to the joint(s). Some injuries can only be addressed surgically, depending on their severity.
- Live with chronic shooting pains. If your pain is constantly affecting your daily life and no other treatments have seemed to help, your doctor may suggest surgery.
If you believe you may need total joint replacement surgery, it is important to discuss that with your primary physician first.
If you have already received total joint replacement surgery, your primary physician will likely refer you to a physical therapist for post-surgical rehabilitation as part of your recovery treatment.
How will physical therapy help me after a joint replacement?
Physical therapy keeps your new joint moving and the surrounding muscles strong, helping you heal faster and more safely and contributing to the 90% to 95% success rate experienced by hip replacement patients. Your therapist will:
- Reduce pain and swelling with gentle hands-on care, ice, or heat.
- Teach safe ways to sit, stand, walk, and climb stairs.
- Guide stretching to restore range of motion.
- Build strength, balance, and endurance with progressive exercises.
- Create a simple home program so you keep improving between visits.
Starting therapy before surgery (“pre-hab”) can also shorten recovery time afterward.
What should I expect at physical therapy after my joint replacement?
Your first visit includes:
- A review of your surgery and health history.
- Measurements of pain, motion, strength, balance, and walking style.
Using this information, your therapist designs a plan just for you.
Early sessions focus on comfort, including gentle motion, ice, and light exercises. As you heal, we add active strengthening, balance drills, and practice of daily tasks until you can move with confidence at home, work, and play.
How long will I need physical therapy after a total knee replacement?
Most people recovering from knee replacement attend therapy 2–3 times a week for about 6–10 weeks. Your exact timeline depends on your age, overall health, and personal goals. Your therapist will adjust the plan as you progress.
What physical therapy will I do after a total hip replacement?
Therapy often starts the day of or the day after surgery. You will:
- Practice getting in and out of bed safely.
- Begin short, frequent walks with a walker or crutches.
- Learn hip precautions to protect the new joint.
- Progress to stretching and strengthening exercises for your hip, glutes, and core.
- Advance to balance and stair training as your strength returns.
The distance you walk and the challenge of the exercises increase a little each day as you can tolerate.
Key takeaways
- Specialized recovery: Targeted physical therapy for knee, hip, and shoulder replacements to restore mobility and strength.
- Central locations: Convenient access to care with clinic locations in Utah, Idaho, and Montana.
- Comprehensive care: Treatment options available for both post-surgical rehabilitation and pre-surgical pain management.
- Two-phase approach: Recovery transitions from passive pain relief (manual therapy) to active strengthening exercises.
- Customized plans: Every patient receives a tailored evaluation and treatment plan to ensure optimal physical health.
Schedule your joint replacement evaluation close to home
Your journey to pain-free movement starts here. If you are considering or preparing for a joint replacement, physical therapy is a vital component of your success, both before and after your procedure.