Joint Replacement Surgery is a transformative procedure for people with mobility issues due to chronic joint pain and arthritis. Though pain from arthritis or overuse of the joint can be treated with medications or changes to your lifestyle, surgery is the best option in severe cases. Joint Replacement Surgery is a step toward your pain-free health goals, and it’s reassuring to know that you can begin the recovery process in the comfort of your own home.
Recovering at home with proper care and support after joint replacement can be a smooth and successful experience. Being at home is a less stressful environment to heal, and makes recovery more manageable. The benefits of uninterrupted sleep and getting back to your schedule can aid in your healing and a quicker recovery.
Some things to keep in mind for a successful recovery at home are:
- Prepare the Home: Modify the placement of items in your home that you use Have what you need set up close to where you will be spending the first few days of your recovery. This will help you when your mobility is limited in the weeks to follow. Plan your meals ahead of time for breakfast and lunch so they are easy to grab and already prepared. Also, make sure that a family member, friend, or some type of caretaker is there to help with big tasks such as bathing and running errands.
- Follow Instructions: Specific instructions will be provided to you by your doctor to follow after surgery. These instructions may include taking prescribed medications, following a specific exercise program such as physical therapy, and avoiding certain activities or body postures. Following these instructions is crucial to ensure a successful recovery for every patient.
- Pain Management: Pain management is an important part of your recovery. You may experience discomfort and pain in the days and weeks following your surgery. Your surgeon will prescribe pain medication to help manage and stay on top of your It is important to take your medication as prescribed and to inform your doctor if your pain is not adequately managed.
- Low-Impact Exercise and Physical Therapy: Physical Therapy comes quickly after your joint replacement surgery. Physical Therapy and exercise encourage an improved range of motion, more blood flow to the joint and throughout your body, pain relief, and faster The goal is to get back to your daily activities as soon and safely as possible while being pain-free.
- Maintaining a Nutritious Diet: Eating a diet that consists of low-inflammatory foods helps aid in the recovery Balancing fruit, vegetables, fiber, protein, and nuts will not only help you recover faster but have you feeling more energized and healthy after your surgery. A nutritious balanced diet is also important for weight management. Having too much weight on the joint post-surgery can slow down healing or exacerbate the symptoms.
The surgeons at Sports Medicine & Orthopaedic Center want to make sure that you are offered the best care with a smooth at-home recovery. By following aftercare instructions, staying on top of your pain, attending physical therapy, and eating a diet full of rich nutrients, you will be sure to be back to your regular daily activities soon after surgery.
Author: Dr. Anthony M.Bevilaqua is a Board-Certified Orthopaedic Surgeon specializing in joint replacement and sports medicine. Dr. Bevilacqua served in the US Army and is a leader in the region and on staff at Sports Medicine & Orthopaedic Center with offices in Suffolk, Harbour View, and Chesapeake, Virginia.
