Modern Total Joint Surgery and A new Pre operative Treatment.

In this modern world of iPhones, WiFi and text messaging.  Orthopaedic surgery has advanced as well.  Today’s total joint surgeries and devices incorporate the advanced fields of IT, MRI, metallurgy, and composites. 

In the last 10 years the strides made total joint replacement have occurred in;  component integrity, optimization of biomechanic alignment, and an amazing decrease in the duration of the surgery. From a lengthy surgery of 240 minutes to an astonishing 31minutes. Medication management has also advanced, aiding in increased recovery and decreased pain.

Through all the advancements one piece has been overlooked. The preoperative, and post operative rehabilitative process.  

Traditionally the patient attempts conservative treatment, including Physical Therapy.  However, the Physical Therapist in treating has planned their treatment plan of care around improving the patient. This ultimately is unachievable, secondary to their arthritic joint surfaces.  However, much is overlooked, and left undone.   Most patients are left without adequate education to promote  joint specific flexibility and strengthening. They are given no protocols and regimens, and little to any real knowledge of using modalities to offset their serious pain.

I realize this will be a change in thought process. To evaluate and design a course of action conjuctively with the idea that surgery is still the outcome.  To prepare the joint in the bestt possible way, prior to surgery.  Allowing a smooth and easier recovery and rehabilitation. 

In the paper below I will outline a plan that will encompass pre operative preparation, with education and exercise specifics, and following a great surgery,  a highly successful post operative program.

A program that will rapidly return the patient to a high level of mobility, with significant improvement in range of motion, strength and mobility.

Over the last 7 years of my career I have worked , extensively in home health, with experience in acute care and outpatient treatment as well.  With the advancement of surgical techniques, I have adapted my treatment protocols to allow the patient a smooth and rapid recovery.   Time and time again, I have seen patients that struggled through their course of rehab, only because preoperatively, they had severe joint flexibility limitations and poor poor strength.  These poor pre-operative conditions can be prevented. It is my hope in developing this preoperative program, that all patients undergoing Total Joint Replacement will have amazing results.