The Joint Protection Program at Breath and Water PT is a specialized aquatic therapy plan aimed at helping people through both pre-operative preparation and post-operative recovery following joint replacement surgery (hips, knees, shoulders, etc.). Because water reduces load, provides resistance, and allows for controlled movement, this program supports safe strength gain, improved mobility, pain relief, balance, and confidence during a critical time of healing.

You’ll work one-on-one with me (Annie Stahl, PT), using warm, supportive water plus techniques in aquatic therapy, breathwork, and functional training to protect your joints, encourage healing, and restore movement.

What the Program Includes

• Initial assessment of mobility, pain, strength, surgical plan, and goals

• Pre-op sessions (if applicable) to build strength, mobility, and endurance so recovery can start strong

• Post-op aquatic therapy focused on gentle movement, swelling/edema control, walking/gait retraining, and joint range of motion

• Joint-friendly strengthening (in water and gradually on land)

• Breathwork to help with pain management, calm nervous system, and support recovery

• Education on protecting joints in daily activities and how to safely progress movement

Who It’s For

• Individuals scheduled for joint replacement (hip, knee, shoulder) who want to prepare well for surgery

• Those who are newly post-op and need safe, effective ways to regain mobility, strength, and confidence

• Anyone wanting to reduce pain, swelling, or stiffness after surgery

• People looking to restore walking, balance, and functional movement safely

Benefits

• Reduction in pain and swelling, leading to reduced need for pain medication

• Early movement/activity post surgery

• Reduced swelling and improved mobility

• Safe movement within surgical precautions

Additional Information

• Always get MD clearance prior to aquatic therapy training

• Program length is individualized depending on needs

• Can be done at home or various other pool locations