If your arthritis has progressed to the point that pain, stiffness, and declining joint function are a major impediment to your daily activities, your doctor has likely recommended joint replacement surgery. If so, you should know that being well prepared for surgery can help ensure that you are among the approximately 90 percent of patients who experience significant improvements in pain levels, mobility, and quality of life after these procedures. Being in good physical condition before surgery is a big part of that preparation as well as the reason physical therapy is a good idea for arthritis sufferers facing joint replacement.