Total joint replacement program

The total joint rehabilitation program provides care to patients with total hip or knee replacements. Treatment includes appropriate exercise instruction, mobility training and activities of daily living. Joint replacement precautions also are discussed. The program may begin before surgery and continue throughout all stages of care, from inpatient to home-care to outpatient, as needed.

About our programs

Preoperative joint class

All patients planning to have joint replacement surgery are strongly encouraged to attend this class. It takes place twice a month and is presented by representatives of the care team. Patients and families learn what to expect after surgery, including rehabilitation and nursing care, length of stay and probable discharge plans. Patients also are introduced to adaptive equipment and taught an exercise program to prepare for rehabilitation after surgery.

Inpatient care

Patients are seen twice a day in physical therapy beginning the first day after surgery. Daily occupational therapy begins the second day after surgery. Patients are taught how to safely transfer, walk or move using an assistive device, climb stairs and perform needed activities of daily living, with their new joint. Patients also learn an exercise program to increase range of motion and strength of the replaced knee or hip and other extremities. Communication between all caregivers helps ensure appropriate discharge plans. In some cases, the rehabilitation team may recommend a short stay at Methodist Hospital’s inpatient rehabilitation unit, a transitional care unit for more rehabilitation, home with home-care or to outpatient therapy.

Home-care

If patients are discharged and considered homebound, therapy services can be provided within the home environment. Home-care nurses, home health aides and social workers also are available. When appropriate, the home-care team will help with the transition to outpatient therapy.

Outpatient care

Outpatient therapy builds upon patients’ previous therapy programs if they have received inpatient care or home-care. Therapists complete and evaluation, and establish an individualized treatment plan with patients and their families. Patients may be seen one time to three times per week for progression of an exercise and walking program. Therapists work with patients to determine the frequency of therapy sessions.

Helpful products

Locations

View Park Nicollet locations that provide this service.

Contact information

General information, scheduling: 952-993-5900

Self-care products

• Walking aids (walkers, crutches, canes)
• Elevated toilet seats
• Kitchen helpers
• Reclining electric lift chair

Find more products for care at home.