The musculoskeletal program focuses on three areas: rehabilitation after joint replacement surgery, fracture care and rehabilitation, spine post-surgical and non-operative care, and sports ailments and injuries. Patients with decreased function or mobility are prime candidates for this comprehensive program.

Lead by a rehabilitation physician, the team carefully coordinates the therapy to re-establish independent living and to reduce the pain associated with musculoskeletal problems. Joint-specific therapies are incorporated into total strength-building and joint-protection techniques.

In addition to therapy, assistive devices, home evaluation, specific strengthening, and general biomechanical re-education are key parts of the program. Family group conferences and support services are also offered. A stay in Horizon House, the Institute's wheelchair accessible apartment, allows patients to evaluate whether they are ready for discharge and able to master daily living activities.

As well as clinical excellence, education and research are among the Musculoskeletal Program's top priorities. A comprehensive "Musculoskeletal Curriculum" has been implemented for the rehabilitation physicians-in-training. Innovative research projects are conducted jointly by Faculty in the Departments of Rehabilitation Medicine and Orthopedic Surgery with results widely disseminated at scientific meetings and peer-reviewed publications. Particular areas of research interests are venous thromboembolism after total joint arthroplasty and rehabilitation protocols after total knee replacement surgery.