Rehabilitation in the home (RITH)

Total hip & knee replacement surgeries are major procedures intended to significantly enhance mobility, reduce pain, and improve the quality of life for individuals with severe joint issues. While the surgery itself is pivotal, the recovery process is equally important, as it determines how effectively you can regain function and resume daily activities.

Rehabilitation after joint replacement surgery can be a complex journey, requiring careful planning, structured exercises, and ongoing support to achieve optimal recovery. The rehab process must be personalised and tailored to your unique needs.

There’s truly no place like home, especially when recovering from surgery or injury. Instead of staying in the hospital to complete your rehabilitation, you may be eligible for Rehab in the Home (RITH), allowing you to continue your recovery in the comfort and privacy of your own home.

RITH has emerged as a powerful alternative to the traditional inpatient rehabilitation. We have seen improvements in joint range-of-motion, pain reduction and walking speed with a <1% rate of hospital re-admission following our program.

Why Choose Rehab in the Home (RITH)?

• Comfort and convenience: Nothing compares to the cosiness of your own bed, familiar surroundings, and the freedom to be with family during your recovery. Being at home can reduce stress, promote emotional well-being, and contribute to an overall more positive recovery experience. It allows you regain independence within the environment where you’ll spend most of your time post-recovery.
• Faster recovery & better outcomes: The comfort of home, combined with personalised, one-on-one care, can accelerate the healing process, and help you regain mobility and independence sooner.
• Reduced risk of infection: By avoiding prolonged hospital stays, you significantly reduce the risk of exposure to hospital-acquired infections. This is especially critical after surgeries, such as joint replacements, where infection can be a major concern.
• Tailored to everyday life: Exercises are designed to suit your home environment and day-to-day activities. This means that your therapist can work with you to develop exercises that mimic real-life tasks, helping you regain the functional strength you need to live independently again—whether it’s climbing stairs, navigating your kitchen, or moving around your living space.
• Better mental health: Home-based rehab provides the added benefit of proximity to loved ones and the comfort of a familiar environment, helping to boost mood and alleviate feelings of isolation or anxiety.

Key Components of Home-Based Rehabilitation

A successful rehabilitation program at home involves a combination of physical exercises, pain management, and lifestyle adjustments. Here are some key components:

• Exercise: A physiotherapist will guide you through exercises tailored to improve joint range of motion, strengthen muscles, and build endurance. These sessions focus on the gradual increase in movement, aiming to restore normal gait patterns and support optimal range of motion.
• Pain and swelling management: Your physiotherapist will provide education around medications (as prescribed), icing, and elevation to reduce pain and swelling.
• Gait retraining: Proper use of crutches, walkers, or canes is crucial in the early stages of recovery. Rehab specialists educate patients on how to use these aids effectively to prevent falls and ensure safe movement within the home.
• Functional training for daily activities: Tasks such as getting in and out of bed, showering, cooking, and navigating stairs require specific functional exercises to make daily life manageable and comfortable.
• Monitoring and Adjustments: Home-based rehab offers flexibility, allowing therapists to adjust the program as you progress. Regular assessments ensure that therapy remains aligned with your recovery pace and personal goals.

Preparing the Home for Rehabilitation

Creating a safe and supportive environment at home is essential for a smooth recovery. Here are some practical steps for preparing the home:

• Remove trip hazards: Clear pathways of rugs, cords, and clutter to prevent tripping.
• Create a rest area: Arrange a comfortable chair with good support, ideally at a height that’s easy to get in and out of without straining the new joint.
• Install handrails: These can be invaluable for safe bathroom, toilet and stair use.
• Keep essentials within reach: Store commonly used items like medications, water, and remote controls close by to avoid unnecessary movement.

Remember, you don’t have to face recovery alone. Our team is here to support you every step of the way with expert guidance, evidence-based treatments, and a compassionate approach that empowers you to reclaim your life.

Book your appointment now and begin a transformative journey to full recovery.