Will I Need Rehab After Knee or Hip Replacement Surgery?

Knee and hip replacement surgeries are common procedures that many patients undergo to alleviate pain and restore mobility. While the surgeries themselves are often successful, the recovery process is equally important. One of the most critical aspects of recovery is rehabilitation. But do you need rehab after knee or hip replacement surgery? 

Let’s dive into why post-surgical rehab is essential and how it plays a vital role in regaining strength and mobility.

What is Post-Surgical Rehab?

Post-surgical rehab is a form of rehabilitation that focuses on helping patients recover after undergoing surgery. It includes a combination of physical therapy, occupational therapy, and skilled nursing care to assist in healing, restoring function, and preventing complications. The goal is to ensure that patients regain their independence and can return to their everyday activities safely and efficiently.

After knee or hip replacement surgery, rehab typically begins shortly after the procedure and may continue for several weeks or even months, depending on the individual’s recovery progress and specific needs.

Why is Post-Surgical Rehab Important?

After surgery, your body needs time to heal and adapt to the new joint. The rehab process plays an essential role in ensuring that your recovery goes smoothly and that you regain strength and mobility. Here’s why post-surgical rehab is important:

• Pain Management: Post-surgical rehab helps manage pain and discomfort that may result from the surgery, using techniques like heat/cold therapy, manual therapy, and guided exercises to relieve tension in the affected area.
• Restoring Mobility: One of the main objectives of rehab is to help patients restore the full range of motion in the affected joint. Specialized exercises, supervised by physical therapists, can help patients gradually regain their flexibility and strength.
• Preventing Complications: Rehabilitation helps minimize the risks of complications that can occur during the recovery process, such as blood clots, muscle weakness, or joint stiffness. Early mobility and movement can significantly reduce the risk of these issues.
• Building Strength: A major part of post-surgery rehab involves strengthening the muscles around the replaced joint. This helps stabilize the joint and prevent it from becoming weak or overburdened.
• Speeding Up Recovery: Engaging in rehabilitation can help speed up the healing process. The more actively you engage in rehab, the quicker your body will adjust to the new joint and heal.

How Does Short-Term Skilled Nursing Help After Knee or Hip Replacement Surgery?

A key element of post-surgical rehab is receiving care in a short-term skilled nursing facility. For many individuals, transitioning from a hospital to home immediately after surgery may not be the best option. This is where short-term skilled nursing facilities like Santé come into play.

These facilities offer a level of care that goes beyond what’s typically available at home. Here’s how they can help:

24/7 Medical Support

After knee or hip replacement surgery, your body will require around-the-clock care to ensure proper healing. Skilled nursing care provides constant medical oversight, ensuring that any complications are addressed immediately.

Personalized Therapy Plans

Patients at short-term skilled nursing facilities receive individualized therapy plans tailored to their needs. Physical therapists will guide patients through exercises designed to strengthen the muscles around the new joint and improve mobility.

Post-Surgical Care

Beyond physical therapy, skilled nursing facilities offer care for other aspects of post-surgery recovery, such as wound care and pain management. This ensures that patients are healing properly and that their surgical sites remain free of infection.

Nutritional Support

Proper nutrition is essential for healing. Short-term skilled nursing facilities provide meals that support recovery, such as protein-rich options that promote tissue repair and foods that reduce inflammation.

Monitoring for Complications

After surgery, the risk of blood clots, infection, or other complications is heightened. Skilled nursing facilities closely monitor for any signs of these issues and take immediate action to prevent further complications.

Rehabilitation Progression

Rehab in a short-term skilled nursing facility is progressive. Patients begin with gentle movements and gradually work up to more intensive exercises. This progression ensures that patients are not overexerting themselves and are safely regaining strength and mobility.

How to Know if You Need Post-Surgery Rehab?

In many cases, the decision to pursue post-surgical rehab after knee or hip replacement surgery is made with the guidance of your healthcare provider. However, there are some general indicators that you may need rehab:

• Difficulty with Mobility: If you are struggling to walk, get in and out of bed, or perform daily activities, post-surgical rehab is essential to improving your function and regaining independence.
• Pain that Limits Function: Persistent pain, especially if it limits your ability to perform everyday activities, can be alleviated with targeted therapy and skilled nursing care.
• Limited Range of Motion: If you find that you cannot fully extend or bend your knee or hip, rehab exercises can help restore your range of motion and flexibility.
• Need for Specialized Care: If you have other medical conditions (such as heart or neurological issues) that require specialized care, skilled nursing and rehab can ensure you receive the appropriate care and attention.

The Role of Post-Surgery Rehab in Your Recovery Journey

After knee or hip replacement surgery, post-surgical rehab is a crucial component of your recovery. It helps you regain strength, mobility, and independence, allowing you to return to your regular activities and improve your quality of life. By utilizing short-term skilled nursing facilities like Santé, you can ensure a smooth recovery process, receive personalized care, and receive the support necessary for successful healing.

At Santé, we provide expert, skilled nursing care and rehabilitation for patients recovering from knee or hip replacement surgeries. Our compassionate, physician-led team is here to help you every step of the way. Contact us today for more information on how we can assist with your recovery.

Sources:
https://orthoinfo.aaos.org/en/treatment/hip-replacement

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/hip-replacement/symptoms-causes/syc-20350658