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Therapy After Knee Replacements Helps Patient Regain Strength and Joy

  • 3 minute read.
  • Last Updated: 11/5/2025
A smiling couple stands close together outdoors, with mountains and a clear blue sky in the background. The woman wears glasses and a striped jacket, while the man wears a brown jacket.
Susan pictured with her husband.

After years of chronic knee pain followed by total joint replacements for both knees, Susan Steinmann arrived at Covenant Health Therapy Center – Morristown, located at Morristown Landing, with limited mobility and a deep desire to reclaim her life. Everyday tasks had become painful, and she was missing out on meaningful moments with her family and was beginning to notice significant limitations at work.

From the start, Steinmann felt welcomed and supported. Her initial evaluation with physical therapist Dawn Williams, DPT, set the tone for a recovery journey built on compassion and expertise. With support from physical therapist assistant Douglas Murgolo, Steinmann began a personalized plan to rebuild her strength and confidence.

A Team Approach to Recovery

The therapy team’s approach was thorough and empathetic. They explained each exercise, addressed her concerns, and made sure she felt heard. Steinmann appreciated the variety in her sessions, which kept her engaged and motivated. When her family was brought her to her therapy sessions that were able to watch the session and ask questions, making each visit feel more personal.

Susan had her initial right knee replacement surgery in November and as a result of the personalized care in just 3 months she was able to have her right knee replacement completed. Susan was able to continue to strengthen her right knee during the new therapy for her left knee.

One moment that stood out came early in Steinmann’s recovery. “When I struggled to with an exercise and felt discouraged, Williams’ reassurance made all the difference.”

“She said that is a process and each stage of recovery would bring its challenges and told me that she knew I wouldn’t be able to do everything right now—but soon would. She made me feel so much better.”

Two women stand together indoors, smiling. One wears a Dallas Cowboys jersey and cap with white pants; the other wears a Chicago Cubs t-shirt with white pants. The background shows an office setting with desks and doors.
Susan pictured with Dawn Williams, DPT

Therapy Progress Leads to Dramatic Improvements

Over time, Steinmann experienced dramatic improvements. She regained the ability to walk up and down stairs, stand without pain, and perform daily tasks independently.

She returned to her nursing career with renewed energy and confidence. Most importantly, she could once again enjoy time with her grandchildren.

“I have my life back! I was about to give up on my nursing career, but now I can enjoy the things I love again,” she said.

Susan Steinmann encourages anyone considering physical therapy to “take the leap,” knowing firsthand the difference it can make. Her story is a powerful reminder of the impact that skilled, compassionate care can have—not just on physical recovery, but on restoring joy and independence.

For more information about Covenant Health Therapy Center – Morristown, call 423-492-8200.

About Covenant Health Morristown-Hamblen 

Morristown-Hamblen Healthcare System, a member of Covenant Health, is a 167-bed hospital serving residents throughout the surrounding eight-county area. The hospital offers comprehensive medical care with six Centers of Excellence, including Morristown Regional Cancer Center, a Women’s Center, Breast Center, Outpatient Surgery Center, an Emergency and Critical Care Center, and the Heart, Lung and Vascular Center. Morristown-Hamblen Healthcare System’s 125-year heritage reflects a patient-focused approach with a commitment to integrity, quality, and service to our communities. Visit MorristownHamblen.com to learn more. 

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