Joint replacement - move safely, stay mobile in the long term

What physiotherapy and occupational therapy can do for hip and knee replacements

An artificial hip or knee joint can be a real turning point: for many patients, it means the end of years of pain and limitations - at the same time, a new process begins that requires targeted movement, therapeutic support and conscious adaptation to everyday life. After all, joint replacement is not a destination, but the beginning of a new functional journey.

Physiotherapy and occupational therapy play a decisive role here - both pre-operatively, to prepare the body for the operation, and post-operatively, to restore mobility, safety and quality of life in the long term.

When does a joint replacement make sense?

A joint replacement (endoprosthesis) is usually considered for advanced osteoarthritis if:

- Pain is permanent and the quality of life is severely restricted

- conservative measures no longer bring sufficient improvement

- everyday activities (e.g. walking, climbing stairs, sleeping) are significantly impaired

The most common procedures are total hip arthroplasty (hip TEP) and total or partial knee arthroplasty (knee TEP / sled prosthesis).

Before the operation - preparation is therapy

Good preoperative therapy can significantly improve the postoperative course. It strengthens the muscles, increases understanding of movement sequences and reduces uncertainty.

Physiotherapy content before the operation:

- Strengthening the pelvic, thigh and core muscles

- Training for walking aids and transfers (e.g. bed, chair, toilet)

- Mobilization of adjacent joints (e.g. hip with planned knee TEP)

- Breathing and circulation exercises to prepare for surgery

Occupational therapy content before the operation:

- Advice on adapting living space and using aids (e.g. shower stool, grab rails)

- Everyday training with adapted movement patterns (e.g. getting dressed, standing up, walking)

- Reducing anxiety through practical exercises and education

- Training in pacing strategies and self-care

After the operation - regaining movement

The first few days after joint replacement are crucial: movement, weight-bearing and targeted activation promote the healing process and prevent complications such as thrombosis, joint stiffness or relieving posture.

Physiotherapy after hip or knee replacement:

- Early mobilization measures (depending on medical clearance)

- Gait training with aids (e.g. forearm crutches)

- Strengthening the surrounding muscles (e.g. gluteus, quadriceps, leg axis)

- Mobility training in the pain-free area

- Coordination and balance training for everyday safety

Occupational therapy after hip or knee replacement:

- Functional everyday training (e.g. getting up, washing, household activities)

- Instructions for safe movement in the home environment

- Pacing for pain, fatigue or uncertainty

- Strengthening the use of aids and independent coping with everyday life

Biopsychosocial approach - building trust, shaping the return to life

At Hockenholz, we support people with joint replacements holistically: we don't just see the implant - we see the person with their fears, questions, goals and resources.

Our work is integrated:

- Movement competence instead of protective behavior

- Pain education and realistic expectation management

- Vegetative regulation and stress reduction after the procedure

- Target work for work, leisure and social participation

- Interdisciplinary collaboration with doctors, orthopaedic techniciansand rehabilitation specialists

Conclusion: joint replacement is not an end - but a beginning

A new hip or knee joint offers the chance of a pain-free, more active life - if the rehabilitation process is consciously accompanied. Physiotherapy and occupational therapy are the key to returning to everyday life, movement and a self-determined life.

Are you a therapist and want to deepen your knowledge of arthroplasty aftercare?
👉 Then discover our practical training courses on functional movement, pain regulation and everyday therapy at:
www.hockenholz.com/weiterbildungen

Are you affected yourself?
We provide you with professional support - before and after the operation - in our practice in Berlin or via online consultation. For a safe, sustainable return to your movement.