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RN Relies on VNA Care to Get Husband Back on Feet After Knee Surgery

With more than a decade as a VNA Care nurse, Melisa Mantha, RN, knows firsthand the benefits of home health care. Yet when her husband Joe needed VNA Care’s support after knee replacement surgery, she experienced that work from a completely new perspective.

Joe’s knee problems began decades ago with a college soccer injury. Over time, the pain worsened, making it increasingly difficult to play with his two young children, coach their sports teams, and enjoy a round of golf.

After a successful day surgery, Joe received his first VNA Care physical therapy visit within 24 hours of returning home. Susan Walker, PT, supported the Manthas in helping Joe regain mobility and meet his goal of returning to an active lifestyle.

Susan’s approach centers on education and empowerment. She ensures patients understand their surgeon’s discharge instructions, wound care, medications, and potential complications.

“I really love to teach patients so that they have all the knowledge they need to be successful,” she said.

Joe appreciated how Susan adapted their home to be a gym. Chairs, counters, and stairs became part of his therapeutic exercise program, along with creative tools like a simple cookie sheet to reduce friction during knee bends, making the movement easier and less painful. While the Manthas also have traditional exercise equipment, Susan is prepared to teach a full exercise program without using any special tools.

“It’s clear that Susan is very experienced and knowledgeable,” Joe said. “She encouraged me to just keep doing the exercises, always saying, ‘The more you do now, the better off you’re going to be.’”

Following Susan’s guidance, Joe made steady progress with his wife, children, and even the family’s guinea pigs cheering him on. In three weeks, he transitioned to outpatient physical therapy. He is looking forward to enjoying active time with his children and playing golf pain-free.

Melisa said, “Susan was fantastic. She was so creative, patient, calming, and empathetic, but also wise and firm in communicating what Joe needed to do to meet his goals.”

For Melisa, experiencing this care firsthand strengthened her appreciation for VNA Care’s longstanding expertise in joint replacement therapy. She recalls a time when bypassing a hospital or rehab stay after knee replacement surgery was unheard of, and VNA Care’s partnership with surgeons helped pioneer a new approach that allowed patients to return home safely after surgery.

“It feels good to know that we have the expertise and that background, and that we’re in good hands,” Melisa said.

Being on the receiving end of VNA Care’s services also reinforced her commitment as a clinician. “It certainly makes me a better nurse and deepens my appreciation for the work we do,” she said. “It furthers my drive to continue delivering high-quality care to my patients.”

Pictured, top: Joe Mantha and Susan Walker, PT

Pictured, bottom: Melisa and Joe Mantha