Back to home Oct. 2012
Orthopedics
Life after Joint Replacement Surgery
Physical therapy is very important after surgery, especially after a procedure
like a total joint replacement. For 55-year-old Fort Myers resident Maria Lorenzo,
physical therapy and a kind and talented physical therapist made all
the difference.
"I had my left knee replaced on June 16," Maria says. "When I left the hospital, I was assigned Home Health therapy. I think I was pretty lucky to get the young man I got—he went above and beyond to help me get stronger and recover."
That young man—Dexter Santos—is a physical therapist with Lee Memorial Home Health. Working in conjunction with orthopedic surgeons, Lee Memorial Home Health—which includes highly skilled therapists, nurses, home health aides and medical social workers—develops individualized care and treatment plans for patients following total joint surgery.
As part of Maria's care plan, Dexter came to her house three times per week for three weeks.
"He explained everything—why we were doing all of the exercises and the benefits to my muscles and my recovery," Maria says. "He was also kind; he pushed me when I needed to be pushed; used humor when things got tough; and always encouraged me."
Dexter also went out of his way to help Maria. "I worried about the scar, and I mentioned that I thought about trying the scar creams they sell at the drugstore," Maria says. "After our conversation, Dexter called me to tell me that the cream was on sale and offered to pick some up for me. He was very thoughtful." In addition to being a great guy, Dexter worked hard to help Maria progress from a wheelchair to a walker to a cane.
"Sometimes the pain was really bad," Maria says. "I would tell Dexter about the pain, and he would tell me, 'There is going to be a better day.' He was right. I was blessed to have such a caring therapist. I told him if I ever get my right knee replaced, I will request that he is my therapist again."
“Lee Memorial Home Health specializes in home safety, patient and caregiver education, therapeutic exercise and gait training. To learn more, call
239-418-2900.”
Joint Replacement Giving Seniors a Leg Up
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