Joint Replacement

Less joint pain means more of the activities you enjoy. Let a joint replacement surgeon help you get back to an active lifestyle. You’ll be back on your feet as quickly as possible thanks to our less invasive approaches, which may allow you to return home without a hospital stay. Join thousands of your neighbors in Greater Minnesota who’ve experienced the freedom CentraCare provides.

When Should I Consider Joint Replacement?

Make an appointment with an orthopedic surgeon to talk about your options if you:

Have long-lasting pain in your hip, knee, shoulder, elbow or ankle
Don’t get enough relief from rehabilitation or joint injections
Can’t sleep or do daily tasks because of your symptoms

Joint Replacement Procedures

Through CentraCare, you have access to:

Total and partial knee replacement
Total and partial hip replacement
Total and partial shoulder replacement, including reverse total shoulder replacement, which lets you lift your arms higher after a rotator cuff injury
Elbow replacement
Ankle replacement
Revision surgery, which replaces an implant that wore out, loosened or caused an infection (St. Cloud only)

Advanced Technology Improves Your Outcome

Joint replacement is easier and safer than ever thanks to:

Less invasive techniques (including the anterior approach to hip replacement) that use smaller incisions and affect less tissue for a faster recovery
Computer navigation systems that use sensors and cameras to show your unique anatomy and guide the surgeon in real time for precise care
Robotic technology, available in St. Cloud and Monticello, that uses imaging to create a 3D model of your joint to help your implant fit well and feel natural

Outpatient Surgery

Because of advances in treatment, you may be able to return home less than 24 hours after your procedure at our hospitals in Monticello, Paynesville, St. Cloud and Willmar. That means your care costs less, and you can spend most of your recovery in the setting where you feel most comfortable.

Recognized for High-Quality Care

You’ll be in good hands no matter which CentraCare hospital you choose for joint replacement surgery. CentraCare – St. Cloud Hospital has earned special recognition from Blue Cross Blue Shield. It named the hospital a Blue Distinction Center+ because of our quality, expertise, better overall patient results and more affordable care.

U.S. News & World Report named St. Cloud Hospital a high-performing facility for hip replacement and knee replacement, putting us in the top 10% of hospitals. The scorecards note our:

High number of patients (which means we have more experience)
High nurse-to-patient ratio (meaning more personal attention for you)
Success in helping you live at home during the first 30 days of recovery

Preparing for Joint Replacement

Get ready for joint replacement surgery by taking an online class that explains:

What to expect before and after treatment
Exercises to strengthen your joint
Ways to limit side effects, manage pain and prepare your home for a smooth recovery

For more information, explore our joint replacement resources, including videos and a comprehensive, downloadable guide.

Patient Education

Are you planning to have a total joint replacement? We have resources, including a virtual joint replacement class, to help you learn about your procedure.

It is highly recommended that all joint replacement patients and their caregivers attend a class before surgery. Going through education before your joint replacement improves your outcomes such as shorter length of stay and fewer complications. If you’re not able to attend in person, this series of eight short videos will help you learn what to expect before your surgery, during your hospital stay, and when you return home. Topics covered include pain management, physical therapy exercises, equipment and more.

Joint Replacement Class Videos

Class Evaluation

Complete the evaluation form to confirm that you have completed the Total Joint Replacement Class.

Evaluation Form

Woman using computer

In partnership with numerous orthopedic physician groups, CentraCare provides orthopedic care in nearly 10 communities in Central, West Central and Southwest Minnesota and has an experienced team of specialists to be your trusted partner through the process. Using the latest technology available, our focus is on you and your goals of an active lifestyle. Review Total Joint Replacement Guide