New Hip or Knee? Foolproof Ways to Faster Rehab

Improved design, better materials, and advances in surgical techniques get much of the credit for the 95 percent success rate in hip and knee replacements, but how you take care of that new joint is just as important. "Progress will come, but you need to follow the instructions of your physician and therapist after a joint replacement," says Monica Betchker, PT, a Cleveland Clinic physical therapist. "Plan ahead to make your home safe-and have realistic expectations that are not based on the experiences of others."