We keep the South Sound moving
 Franciscan Health System and St. Anthony Hospital offer the comprehensive Joint Camp program for patients who are undergoing surgery to replace hip or knee joints affected by trauma or arthritis.
Joint Camp removes the mystery from joint replacement surgery by enabling small groups of patients to go through the process together from pre-surgical education and surgery, to recovery, rehabilitation and discharge.
By involving patients in the joint replacement process from the beginning, surgery and rehabilitation become more positive, successful experiences.
During pre-operation education, patients learn about all aspects of total joint surgery and rehabilitation, such as anesthesia, the basics of joint anatomy, medications and what to expect after surgery.
In post-surgical joint replacement rehabilitation, therapists demonstrate exercises that help strengthen muscles as well as the types of equipment that patients may need to use during their recovery. This includes crutches, walkers, and even a small device that helps patients put on their socks.
Joint Camp participants share an array of fun activities, including a miniature golf tournament, and they are treated to a gourmet dinner and hairstyling before going home after surgery. There's even a reunion party at which Joint Camp graduates meet again and share their success stories.
This unique joint replacement program consistently results in satisfied patients, physicians and other health care professionals. In this atmosphere of mutual support and intense rehabilitation, Joint Camp patients become motivated, experience shorter hospital stays and have speedier recoveries than in traditional surgical settings. Our patients the campers support each other, make new friends and have better outcomes.
What is the first step?
Only an orthopedic surgeon can determine whether an orthopedic implant is an appropriate course of treatment. There are potential risks, and recovery takes time. The performance of the new joint depends on weight, activity level, age and other factors. These need to be discussed with your doctor. To find an orthopedic physician near you please use our Find a Physician tool.
Call 253-426-6004 for more information about the Joint Camp program.
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