Guiding You from Joint Replacement to Recovery

We are pleased that you have chosen MemorialCare Joint Replacement Center. Your decision to have elective joint replacement surgery is the first step towards a healthier lifestyle.

Each year, more than 700,000 people make the decision to undergo joint replacement surgery. The surgery aims to relieve your pain, restore your independence, and return you to work and other daily activities.

Promoting a Successful Joint Replacement Recovery

The joint replacement program is designed to return you to an active lifestyle as quickly as possible. Most patients will be able to walk the first day after surgery, and move towards normal activity in six to twelve weeks.

The MemorialCare Joint Replacement Center has planned a comprehensive course of joint replacement treatment. We believe that you play a key role in promoting a successful recovery. Our goal is to involve you in your treatment through each step of the program. This joint replacement patient guidebook will give you the necessary information to promote a more successful surgical outcome.

Joint Replacement Care Team

Your joint replacement care team includes physicians, physician assistants, patient care assistants, nurses, orthopedic technicians, physical and occupational therapists specializing in total joint care. Every detail, from peri-operative teaching to post-operative exercising, is considered and reviewed with you. The Joint Replacement Care Coordinator will plan your individual joint replacement treatment program and act as your guide.

Pre-Education is Key to Recovering from Joint Replacement

Preparation, education, continuity of care, and a pre-planned discharge are essential for optimum results in joint surgery. Communication is essential to this process. The joint replacement guidebook is a communication tool for patients, physicians, physical and occupational therapists, and nurses. It is designed to educate you so that you know:

  • What to expect every step of the way.
  • What you need to do to prepare for surgery.
  • How to care for your new joint.

Remember, this is just a guide. Your physician, physician assistant, nurses, or therapist may add to or change any of the recommendations. Always use their recommendations first and ask questions if you are unsure of any information. Keep your joint replacement guidebook as a handy reference for at least the first year after your surgery. The information in the joint replacement guidebook covers a lot of information, so it may look overwhelming. Since it will assist you with your surgery, we recommend reading the entire guide, at a pace that suits you.

Joint Replacement Patient Guidebooks

Long Beach Medical Center

Orange Coast Medical Center

Saddleback Medical Center