About Us
The physicians at the Martin Memorial Center for Joint Replacement understand that joint pain can be devastating. That is why we offer a comprehensive program to restore your independence. In fact, our center has been recognized as one of the nation's Top 100 Hospitals for Orthopedic Excellence.
Nearly 400 patients each year put their trust in our award-winning team to help return them to a healthier lifestyle as quickly as possible. About 53 percent of our patients have knee replacement surgery and 47 percent have hip replacement surgery. Our surgeons follow practice parameters developed and approved by our Orthopedic Task Force. The task force develops these practices based on the latest research and best outcomes. With this best-practices model and our hospitals' most current technology and equipment, you will receive the very best in orthopedic care.
Our specialized team, led by an orthopedic surgeon, works with a number of health care providers to maximize your return to health. Those on your team include:
- Specially trained orthopedic registered nurses
- Physical and occupational rehabilitation therapists
- Orthopedic surgeons
- Registered pharmacists
- Case manager to help you through the process, including discharge and follow-up care
How Our Program Works
Our comprehensive program ensures you receive the best possible care. Here is how the program works.
1. Doctor's Evaluation
Your orthopedic surgeon will talk with you about your symptoms, medical history and recommended course of treatment.
2. Set Up Appointments
Your case manager will make arrangements for treatment with all of the appropriate service providers.
3. Pre-Surgery Classes
You and your family can attend classes at Martin Memorial Hospital South. Classes are conducted by the orthopedic team and will help you better understand the:
- Surgical procedure
- Options for services after surgery
- Rehabilitation process
- Home care
- Nutrition
- Pain control
- Any specialized equipment
You will also become acquainted with the hospital and the orthopedic team, and be able to ask all of your questions.
4. Surgery
Your surgery will be performed by our orthopedic specialists at Martin Memorial Hospital South. Patients can expect to spend three to five days in the hospital following surgery. Our caring nurses will prepare you for your procedure, assist the physician in the pre-operative areas, and provide specialized care following your surgery.
Virtual knee surgery Virtual hip surgery
5. In-Hospital Therapy
The day after your surgery, physical therapists will begin a program with you to help you gain mobility and independence for your hospital discharge. Pain management specialists will be available as needed.
Your physical therapy in the hospital includes gentle exercises to help you to get out of bed and into a chair, and to get you walking short distances with a walker. Protecting your new joint is very important, so the therapist will tell you about any precautions or restrictions you may have during this initial mobility training.
You may also work with an occupational therapist, who will teach you how to safely dress, bathe and use the toilet as you are recuperating.
A therapist will work with you two times a day during your hospital stay, but please remember that you should perform exercises on your own between therapist visits. Your goals for discharge from the hospital include:
- Getting safely in and out of bed without assistance
- Getting safely in and out of a chair without assistance
- Knowing your precautions so you will continue to protect your new joint after you leave the hospital
- Performing your exercises as instructed by your therapist to increase strength and independence
6. Hospital Discharge
Your doctor will decide if you will be able to return directly home after discharge from the hospital, or if you would benefit from the care of a skilled rehabilitation facility before you return home.
If you are going directly home, your case manager can help you get home nursing care, contact your physical therapists for follow-up care, help your family make your home setting comfortable, and answer any questions you have. (See helpful tips for your home care.) If you will utilize a skilled rehabilitation facility, your case manager will help you make that transition as well.
7. Rehabilitation
After you are released from the hospital, you will start an outpatient rehabilitation program. Physical therapy is essential for your full recovery. Martin Memorial has several rehabilitation facilities so you can receive the best care close to home.
In your individualized treatment program, highly trained physical and occupational therapists will use the latest treatments and equipment to help you return to good health. You may also benefit from aquatic therapy in a heated pool, also offered by Martin Memorial. Your doctor and case manager will help you schedule and understand your therapy program. Learn more about Martin Memorial's rehabilitative services and locations.
8. Maintaining Your Good Health
Martin Memorial has Wellness Centers conveniently located throughout the community to help you maintain the gains you made through surgery and rehabilitation. You can choose an individualized exercise program supervised by personal trainers, and take advantage of massage therapy, nutrition and weight control classes, and other offerings. Find out more about Martin Memorial Health and Fitness Centers.
Our Doctors
Patient Testimonials
"My husband Jim had a knee replacement at the center, and in less than 12 weeks, he was back playing shuffleboard competitively!" --Tess Waters
"I am happy to send kudos to the staff at Martin Memorial. What an efficient and caring group they are. I had a total knee replacement and stayed at the hospital for a few days. I can say very easily that the RNs, LPNs, aides and physical therapists gave their very best care and knowledge to make me feel better and make me more comfortable. I applaud them all for their dedication."
Contact Us
Martin Memorial Center for Joint Replacement
Martin Memorial Hospital South
2100 S.E. Salerno Rd.
Stuart, FL 34997
(772) 223-5706
Driving Directions
Frequently Asked Questions
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1. How much exercise should I do?
Mild or moderate exercise is beneficial. Thirty minutes, three times daily, should be devoted to those exercises you can do on your own.
2. When can I drive?
Driving is an individual matter. Some people regain their coordination and reflexes quickly and others take several weeks. Your doctor will let you know when you can drive.
3. When can I take a bath?
For total knee replacement patients, you can safely immerse your knee in water three weeks after surgery, after your staples have been removed. For total hip replacement patients, it may be a minimum of three months before you can take a bath because you must maintain your precautions. Check with your doctor first.
4. Should I put lotion on my incision?
No!
5. When should I go up and down stairs?
It is important that you make the rehabilitation and nursing staff aware of any stairs you will need to climb to get into your home. They will instruct you in the proper technique prior to discharge from the hospital. Once at home, the therapist will instruct you further on walking stairs. The pace at which you regain agility on the stairs depends on individual traits and is hard to predict. |
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6. What kind of shoes should I wear?
A well fitting, flat, closed-toe shoe, such as tennis shoes, is safest. High heels should be avoided for the first three months for total knee and total hip replacement patients, and should be avoided until your doctor says it is okay to wear them.
7. Should I use a heating pad or ice packs?
Ice can be used to help relieve pain, but can be harmful if left on too long (more than 20 minutes). The use of heat is NOT recommended.
8. How long should I continue taking my medications after surgery?
Blood thinning medications should be taken unless you are instructed not to by your physician. All pain medications may be taken as directed for pain. If you have any questions about your medications, consult your doctor.
9. When can I increase my activities?
All patients are anxious to return to activities such as driving, dancing or playing golf. You must first get clearance by your doctor before beginning any activity that hasn't already been discussed.
10. How long will my knee feel hot?
You may feel warmth for 6 to 12 months after surgery. The heat is the body's indicator that healing is occurring. |