Aquatic Therapy and Total Joint Replacement

Many of our patients have had total knee or total hip replacements.  Many want to know if aquatic therapy is an option that would benefit their condition.

In a new study, which you can read about at http://www.eurekalert.org/pub_releases/2011-12/ehs-ats121911.php, a group of patients, all of whom had undergone total hip or total knee replacements, were subjected to aquatic physical therapy either 6 or 14 days post-op.  

As it turns out, timing is everything!  The total knee replacement group that started 6 days after surgery reported a greater improvement in functionality than the group that started at the 14 day mark.  

The opposite was true for the total hip replacement group.  The segment of the group that started at 14 days post-op reported a greater improvement in functionality than the portion that started 6 days post-op.

One hypothesized explanation by Dr. Liebs, the author of the study, is that the difference between knee and hip replacements was that "the hydrostatic force of water reduces effusion in the knee joint.  Because the knee capsule is closed after TKA, reduced effusion leads to less pain. In THA, the joint capsule is not closed, so the effect of reduced effusion is less."

So, while aquatic therapy can certainly relieve the strain on your aching joints, timing is still the key.  Here at Mercer Physical Therapy we promise to work closely with your doctor to achieve a plan of care that will have you back on your feet and living life in no time at all.

Please visit us at our website (www.mercerphysicaltherapy.com) and stay tuned for information on our grand opening and open house!