During joint replacement, a surgeon removes parts of a damaged joint and replaces them with a prosthesis made of metal, plastic, or ceramic. The most common joint replacement surgeries are for the hip and knee, but they can also be performed on the wrist, ankle, elbow, or shoulder.
Joint replacement surgery can provide enormous relief of pain for people with arthritis or damaged joints. At the same time, the procedure can significantly impact your life during recovery.
Here are three important things to know before joint replacement surgery.
1. Understanding your procedure can empower your recovery.
The more you know about your procedure beforehand, the better engaged you will be in your recovery. The surgery you receive may affect your physical limitations during recovery and the physical therapy you receive.
For example, hip replacements are performed with either the newer, more common anterior approach or the older, less common posterior approach. People who receive a posterior procedure will have more restrictions: they should not bend the hip more than 90 degrees, cross their feet or legs, or turn the hip inward.
You can also talk to your doctor ahead of time about the level of pain you can expect. They can help you determine the best way to manage pain after surgery.
2. Planning ahead will help your joint replacement recovery.
While recovering from joint replacement, mobility is significantly limited. Early preparation can reduce disruption, pain, and frustration.
● Examine your home for changes you may need to make, such as rearranging furniture, adding night lights, or fixing tripping hazards.
● Purchase medical supplies, such as a walker or elevated toilet seat, ahead of time.
● Stock up on basic household items, such as toilet paper, to avoid running errands.
● Decide how you will handle transportation and errands outside the house.
● Arrange for help with household tasks, such as cleaning.
● Stock up on prepared or frozen meals to avoid having to stand or move around too long.
● If you have small pets that get underfoot, consider boarding them temporarily.
● If possible, arrange your home so you can stay on one floor and avoid stairs.
● Store frequently used items in easy reach, between shoulder and waist level.
● If using a walker, attach a sturdy bag or basket so you can carry items easily.
3. Practice makes perfect (recovery).
Joint surgery will significantly restrict your movement during recovery. You may need to change the way you walk or move for a while. Practicing these movements beforehand can help you be better prepared and make your recovery smoother.
Ask your doctor, and then practice the best methods for:
● Getting up and down from the toilet
● Getting in and out of the shower
● Going up and down stairs
You may need to use a mobility aid, such as a cane, walker, crutches, or wheelchair after surgery. If you have never used one before, practice beforehand so you will be more comfortable.
Exercise is important for your recovery, as it can help you return to normal movement faster and strengthen the joint. A physical therapist can help you with identifying the best exercises and help you practice them ahead of time, so you get used to doing them correctly.
Spring Hill Physical Therapy & FYZICAL can help!
Our physical therapists help people prepare and recover from joint replacement surgery every day. We even offer virtual or telehealth appointments so you can perform your therapy from the comfort of your own home!
We would be happy to consult with you. Click here to contact us.