I came across an article on Flipboard yesterday reviewing the number of total joint replacements (TJR) performed in 2011 here in the US. The numbers are staggering!! The numbers have obviously increased since 2011. Here is the breakdown from a study published by the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons.
| Procedure | Hospital discharges |
| Total Knee Replacement | 645,062 |
| Total Hip Replacement | 306,600 |
| Partial Hip Replacement | 105,509 |
| Total Shoulder Replacement | 29,414 |
| Partial Shoulder Replacement | 15,860 |
Every TJR client needs a MET program after surgery or discharge from physical therapy. Developing a total joint replacement/arthritis program is a service every orthopedist performing total joint replacement needs. A couple studies have also reviewed the weight gain within two years of the replacement. The increases the possibility of diabetes, hypertension and of course more stress on the replacement.
Our TJR/Arthritis program consists of 6 sessions over a 30-day period using both education and exercise. METI believes education + exercise produces positive outcomes for clients. Each TJR session starts with a 15 minute lecture, using PowerPoint, on a topic related to arthritis and/or TJR. This is followed by a 45 – 60 minute exercise session. The exercise program is designed specifically for management of TJR and arthritis. The TJR program works for those trying to avoid or scheduled for surgery as well as those after surgery.
The educational component of the program is unique but well received by physicians and physical therapists. Usually recipients of total joint replacements are covered by Medicare. Medicare doesn’t cover the cost of the TJR program but when delivered on a group basis, the program becomes affordable for seniors and those on fixed incomes. It also establishes a potential referral generator. And when delivered on a group basis, can be profitable. Every orthopedist I’ve presented this to has immediately recognized the need for such a program and embraced the 30-day concept.
Most medical referral or prescriptions, regardless of the nature, are 30-days in length. 30 days is the standard in medicine. This allows the practitioner to see if the treatment, or in this situation..the program, works and if more is needed after 30 days, a referral is made. With the increasing numbers of joint replacements performed every MET facility and professional must develop a TJR/Arthritis program.
For more information on medical condition-based group training programs click here.
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