Orthopedic Rehabilitation

Orthopedic Rehabilitation: Getting you moving again
People who have had joint replacement surgery, bone trauma, a musculoskeletal injury or a degenerative joint disease often have limited function and mobility, pain and other complications. The orthopedic rehabilitation specialists at Kessler Institute help individuals like you recover the skills, strength and strategies to confidently resume their daily activities.
Male patient in leg cast uses stairs to improve mobility during orthopedic rehabilitation therapy session

The Kessler Difference

Where a person goes for treatment can make all the difference in their recovery. Studies* show that those treated in a specialized rehabilitation hospital – like Kessler Institute – have greater improvement, fewer complications and return home sooner than patients at nursing facilities. We provide the comprehensive program of medical, nursing and therapy care that can make a difference in your recovery.

  • At Kessler Institute, we draw on the expertise of a seasoned team of orthopedic rehabilitation specialists to address the range of physical and functional issues you face following injury, joint replacement or other bone-related conditions.

    This inter-professional team is led by a physiatrist, a physician board-certified in physical medicine and rehabilitation, and includes rehabilitation nurses; physical, occupational, and recreation therapists; dietitians; pharmacists; case managers and other clinical and support staff as needed.

  • Treatment is tailored to your medical, physical and functional needs and goals to help:

    • restore physical abilities
    • build strength and endurance
    • minimize pain
    • manage any post-surgical inflammation or swelling
    • improve balance and regain mobility
    • enhance skills to perform daily activities
    • optimize independence

    Through this highly coordinated program, we also manage your post-surgical needs and monitor for any complications. We help you follow  precautions related to your surgery, including how to lie in bed, sit, stand, bend and move safely.

     

  • To help you successfully return to life at home, work, school and/or the community, Kessler offers an unparalleled continuum of care, building on the gains made during your inpatient stay. Patients accomplish this by participating in Kessler’s outpatient orthopedic rehabilitation programs, conveniently located at our four hospital campuses and more than 95 Kessler Rehabilitation Centers located throughout the state.
  • Patients with orthopedic conditions who choose Kessler for their rehabilitation have greater improvement during their stay and a higher level of independence upon discharge, than other rehabilitation hospital, based on national benchmarks*.

    * Source: eRehabData.com

Our patients say it best
Joe's story
"My Kessler team helped me understand that it was going to take time to heal. I had their support and encouragement every step of the way, but I still wasn't sure I could do it." 

Your progress. Our program.

It’s important to remember that recovery takes time. Each patient is different and your stay with us will depend on the extent of your injury and/or surgery, any other medical issues and the progress you make each day.
  • For more than 75 years, Kessler Institute has pioneered the field of medical rehabilitation. Today, we continue to provide advanced care and innovative treatments. That includes a combination of hands-on therapies and proven technologies to help you regain strength, restore skills and mobility and rebuild your life.
  • Your ability to perform daily activities at home, work, school or in the community is critical to your independence. Your therapy team may introduce a variety of tools, techniques and strategies to help you manage these tasks. This includes adaptive equipment, such as reachers and other devices to help you get dressed, as well as electronic aids and other assistive technologies.   
  • Preparing you and your family for life ahead is one of our primary goals. We provide extensive education, training and support to help you understand your condition, use the strategies provided to manage everyday activities and move forward with confidence.   
  • To help reinforce your skills and restore your spirit, Kessler’s specially trained Canine Companions for Independence* may be part of your therapy program. Some of our therapists work with these remarkable dogs to engage patients in a wide range of activities that support the rehabilitation process. 

    *Not available at Kessler-Marlton

  • The ability to drive is an important part of an independent lifestyle. Kessler’s certified driver rehabilitation specialists offer the evaluation and training to help appropriate individuals drive safely. They will also discuss any modifications and/or adaptations that may be needed.
patient lifting weights to strengthen back and shoulders
Insight:
Orthopedic rehabilitation
"While most our orthopedic patients have undergone joint replacement or surgery to repair bone fractures or spinal conditions, some have sustained multiple injuries as the result of a motor vehicle accident or other event. That's why our comprehensive, coordinated, interdisciplinary approach to care - and caring - makes all the difference in our patients' recovery." - Lauren McDonagh, director of rehabilitation

The technology of orthopedic recovery

physical therapist working with patient

Kessler integrates hands-on treatment and leading-edge technologies to support our patients’ progress. Depending on your individual needs and goals, you may benefit from:

  • Electrical stimulation
  • Body weight supported treadmill training
  • Assistive equipment, computer-based training and electronic aids
  • Alternative protocols, such as acupuncture

In addition, many of our doctors, nurses and therapists are engaged in promising new research studies that continue to enhance care and provide new avenues of treatment for individuals with orthopedic and musculoskeletal conditions.


Let us help

We will work closely with you, your family, your physician and/or the referring hospital to ensure a smooth transition to Kessler Institute for your rehabilitation.

Did you know?

Studies* show that people with orthopedic conditions who require rehabilitation services have greater improvement when treated at a rehabilitation hospital – like Kessler – than at nursing facilities. In fact, those with hip fractures return home nearly three weeks sooner than individuals at nursing homes.
*Assessment of Patient Outcomes of Rehabilitative Care Provided in Inpatient Rehabilitation Facilities (IRFs) and After Discharge. Dobson DaVanzo & Associates, LLC. 2014.