Joint Replacement

Keep moving. Live well. Get expert help for joint pain, injuries, and long-term joint conditions at Olmsted Medical Center (OMC). We combine advanced care, a coordinated team, and practical rehabilitation to help you reduce pain, regain function, and get back to the activities you love.

Why Choose OMC for Joint Care

  • Proven quality for joint replacement: OMC is recognized as a Blue Distinction Center for Knee and Hip Replacement, a marker of lower complication rates and strong outcomes for joint replacement.
  • Team-based care: Surgeons, physical and occupational therapists, nurses, pharmacists, care navigators, and pain specialists work together so you get the right care at the right time.
  • Personalized recovery plans: We focus on faster, safer recovery with minimally invasive techniques, early mobility, and a joint navigator who coordinates appointments and education.
  • Convenient local care: Imaging, therapy, and follow-up care are available close to home — which helps keep your recovery on track.

Common Joint Problems We Treat

We evaluate and treat conditions that affect joint function and quality of life, including:

  • osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis
  • shoulder, hip, knee, and ankle pain
  • meniscal and ligament injuries (ACL, MCL)
  • tendonitis and bursitis
  • cartilage damage and joint instability
  • post-surgical pain or problems
  • sports injuries and overuse conditions.

How We Diagnose Joint Problems

We use a clear, step-by-step approach so you understand your options:

  • Medical history and focused exam
  • Imaging: X-ray, MRI, ultrasound, or CT when needed
  • Lab tests when infection or inflammatory disease is a concern
  • Functional assessment with physical therapy to measure strength, range of motion, and mobility

Treatment Options

We start with the least invasive options and progress to advanced care when needed.

Non-surgical care
  • Personalized home exercise and physical therapy (prehab and rehab)
  • Pain management: safe, evidence-based medications and counseling on use
  • Joint injections (steroid, viscosupplementation/hyaluronate when appropriate)
  • Bracing, orthotics, and activity modification
  • Weight management, nutrition counseling, and tobacco cessation support to improve outcomes
Interventional & surgical care
  • Arthroscopic procedures for meniscus, cartilage, and ligament repair
  • Partial and total joint replacement (hip, knee, shoulder, ankle) using current, less-invasive techniques
  • Revision surgery and complex reconstructions when needed

Pain Management & Rehabilitation

Your plan may include:

  • multimodal pain control (to limit opioids and speed recovery)
  • physical therapy focused on strength, balance, and safe return to activity
  • occupational therapy to adapt daily activities during recovery
  • rehabilitation services that connect with home health when needed

Preventive Strategies to Protect Your Joints

Small changes make a big difference:

  • Follow a strength and flexibility routine to support joint stability
  • Maintain a healthy weight to reduce joint load
  • Use proper footwear and orthotics when recommended
  • Learn safe movement and lifting techniques (ergonomics)
  • Keep up with chronic disease care (diabetes, arthritis) that affects healing

What to Expect

  • Your care begins with an evaluation and tests as needed.
  • If non-surgical care is appropriate, we’ll start a trial of therapy, injections, or medication.
  • If surgery is recommended, your care navigator will explain steps, class schedules, and pre-op needs.
  • After surgery, you’ll follow a structured recovery plan with therapy and timely follow-ups.

Note: Detailed “After Joint Replacement” recovery instructions are on the Joint Replacement Recovery page.

How to Get Care

  • Need a referral? Ask your primary care provider for a referral to Orthopedics when appropriate.
  • Call to schedule:
    • Orthopedic appointments — 507.292.7187
    • Speak with a Joint Replacement Navigator: 507.529.6735
  • For urgent orthopedic injuries seen in the Emergency department, you may receive a direct referral to Orthopedics.

We’re here to help you move with less pain and more freedom — close to home, with a team that listens.