Same-day joint surgery programs

People consider joint replacement when pain and stiffness begin to limit their daily lives. You may benefit from same-day hip, knee or shoulder replacement if you're experiencing: 

• Chronic joint pain that limits walking, climbing stairs or daily activities
• Stiffness or reduced range of motion in the hip, knee or shoulder
• Joint damage from osteoarthritis or other degenerative conditions
• Pain that hasn't improved with medication, injections or physical therapy
• Difficulty sleeping or resting because of joint discomfort 

Your orthopedic specialist will review your symptoms and health history to determine if same-day joint replacement is an appropriate option. 

Recovery starts right after surgery, with most patients standing and walking with assistance the same day using a walker or crutches. Physical therapy plays a central role in your recovery and typically includes: 

• Early movement to reduce stiffness and support joint function
• A personalized rehabilitation plan focused on your specific joint replacement
• Clear guidance on pain management, incision care and activity levels
• Follow-up appointments, including virtual visits when appropriate, to monitor your progress 

Your care team will adjust your recovery plan as needed to help you regain strength and mobility at a pace that's right for you.

Recovery follows three stages: 

• Early phase (days 1 to 14): Focus is on managing pain, protecting the new joint and encouraging gentle movement. Physical therapy introduces safe positions, exercises to reduce stiffness and walking with support.
• Intermediate phase (weeks 2 to 6): Therapy becomes more active as you regain range of motion and strengthen the muscles around the joint. Exercises target balance, flexibility and endurance while therapists review your movement patterns to help protect nearby joints.
• Advanced recovery phase (weeks 6 to 12 and beyond): Rehabilitation progresses to functional training that simulates daily movements such as climbing stairs, driving or returning to sports. The focus shifts to long-term strength, stability and independent function. Most patients resume normal daily activities within a few months, with continued improvement for up to a year. 

Protecting your new joint supports lasting results. Your specialists will guide you on: 

• Following all exercise and therapy instructions
• Keeping your incision clean and dry
• Using assistive devices until cleared
• Avoiding high-impact activities until approved
• Maintaining a healthy weight to reduce joint stress 

As with any surgery, joint replacement carries potential risks, including infection, blood clots, stiffness or delayed healing. Your surgical team follows evidence-based protocols and advanced techniques designed to help minimize these risks. Before your procedure, your care team will walk through every consideration with you and answer your questions, so you can feel confident and informed about your decision.