Orthopaedic & Musculoskeletal Program
Mt Wilga's orthopaedic and musculoskeletal rehabilitation program is designed to enhance your recovery and help you regain independence following orthopaedic surgery, such as hip and knee replacement or other orthopaedic injury. The program is also designed to improve your functional ability if you are suffering from rheumatoid or osteoarthritis or other conditions of the bone/joint/muscle system.
Your rehabilitation program is managed by a team of health professionals:
- Rehabilitation Physician
- Rehabilitation Nurses
- Occupational Therapist
- Physiotherapist
- Case manager
- Dietitian
- Psychologist
- Exercise physiologist
Your rehabilitation team will formulate a treatment plan for you based on your individual needs, instructions from your orthopaedic surgeon or consulting physician. You are part of the team and will be encouraged to participate in the development and review of your program.
The team meets regularly to discuss your progress and review your goals, and strives to ensure your smooth and safe return to pre-hospital living arrangements.
Physiotherapy
Your physiotherapy program will be coordinated by a physiotherapist with training and interest in treating orthopaedic and musculoskeletal conditions. Your program will be aimed at improving:
- The strength and movement of your operated/injured limb
- Your balance
- Your mobility
- Your flexibility and endurance
Individual and group exercise, gym work and hydrotherapy will form the basis of your program. A ward exercise program will also be designed for you so you can continue to work and progress outside of designated therapy times.
Occupational therapy
Your Occupational Therapy program will assist you in regaining your former level of independence and help you return to your normal routine. Your program may include assessment and training in:
- Personal care activities
- Functional movement
- Household tasks
- Home safety assessment
- Prescription of aids to help you maintain your independence
- Driver education
Nursing staff
Your nurses will encourage and assist you to achieve your optimal level of independence. They provide 24 hour care and supervision and will help you with your daily ward activities, provide wound management, educate you on protecting your affected limb and monitor your general health.
Your nurses continually liaise with your therapists to ensure continuity of your rehabilitation care and are always available to answer questions about your rehabilitation program, your medical care or other health concerns.
Medical services
Your rehabilitation program is directed by a Rehabilitation Physician. He/she has the responsibility of monitoring and evaluating your medical and rehabilitation care. The Rehabilitation Physician will liaise with your Orthopaedic Surgeon or Physician, General Practitioner and other specialists to ensure effective continuity of medical care. Medical services will be provided by a medical registrar on a day to day basis.
Discharge
You will be discharged when you reach your potential or no longer require nursing care. If you require support at home, such as Meals on Wheels or Community Nursing this will be arranged prior to your discharge.
If you require further rehabilitation treatment you will be referred to a day rehabilitation program or outpatient services. This will be discussed with you and your family to allow you to plan accordingly.