The approach to physical therapy following orthopedic reconstructive surgery

Abstract

Rehabilitation is an integral component after orthopedic surgery. At Hospital for Special Surgery (HSS), our Rehabilitation Therapists have created specific postoperative guidelines to enhance mobility immediately after joint replacement and spinal surgeries. Early mobilization allows patients to achieve a higher level of function following joint replacement and spine surgeries. The interdisciplinary care team at Hospital for Special Surgery has integrated rehabilitation guidelines into Clinical Pathways for joint replacement and spine procedures to ensure critical steps are implemented in order for patients to achieve specific outcomes. Preoperative education is essential in order to enhance the patient experience, decrease anxiety, and meet the patients’ expectations in the postoperative phase.