Physical Therapy

Outpatient Rehabilitation Services after Total Joint Replacement

Outpatient rehabilitation is recommended as part of the plan of care for patients who have undergone total joint replacement surgery at the Total Joint Center. After you leave the hospital, your rehabilitation will continue in an outpatient setting where the goal is to enable you to move like you’re meant to.

The Miriam Hospital offers outpatient rehabilitation for joint replacement surgery. The staff of the outpatient rehabilitation department is experienced in treating orthopedic conditions and provides expert one-on-one care in a friendly, enthusiastic environment.

Why is outpatient rehabilitation necessary after total joint replacement surgery?

After leaving the hospital, you may require additional therapy if you are not yet at your optimal level of functioning. Impairments that you may experience include:

• Pain
• Swelling of the joint
• Loss of range of motion
• Loss of strength
• Impaired functional mobility and/or balance
• Difficulty with activities of daily living
• Difficulty with recreational or sport activities

The Miriam Hospital’s outpatient rehabilitation department offers physical therapy and occupational therapy to provide patients with the therapy they need to fully restore function. The rehabilitation process is fully integrated into each patient’s total care plan. Therapists work closely with surgeons and provide timely communication regarding patients’ progress.

Treatment Modalities and Equipment

Your therapist will set up a treatment plan based on your initial evaluation, current impairments and goals. Because each patient progresses differently, the frequency and duration of treatment will vary. Your treatment plan will be individualized and specific to your needs.

Treatment modalities and equipment include:

• Stationary bike
• Treadmill
• NuStep recumbent cross trainer
• Stair training
• Parallel bars
• Exercises (on mat, standing, seated)
• Weights and weight machines
• Pulleys
• Biodex chair for range of motion and strengthening
• Biodex balance master
• Assistive devices
• Ultrasound, electrical stimulation, and thermal modalities
• Hands-on manual therapy

Patient Referral

To make an appointment for physical therapy or occupational therapy after total joint replacement, please contact your surgeon to obtain a referral. We will make every effort to schedule an appointment promptly.

There is free on-site parking and the facility is easily accessible via public transit, including RIPTA’s RIde Paratransit Program, which provides transportation for people with disabilities and seniors.