Your Recovery

Home Preparations for Your Recovery

Once it has been decided that joint replacement surgery is the best option for you, you should begin normal preparations for surgery. All surgeries have certain risks and possible complications. Before your joint replacement surgery, your surgeon will explain the possible complications. Be sure to notify your surgeon of any medications you are currently taking, as some may need to be stopped before having the procedure. It is common for your surgeon to advise you to see your primary care physician to ensure that you do not have any preexisting health conditions that may complicate your surgery.

Please note that surgery requires anesthesia. Also, you may be asked to donate blood for your operation sometime in advance of your surgery. Make sure to have all your questions answered and your options regarding blood donation and anesthesia explained to you. Options which will be based on your health history, your current medications, and the results of your physical examination.

Often, your surgeon may recommend that you begin a program to build strength prior to your surgery. Designed to help improve strength and flexibility, exercise prescribed by your doctor can help assist your post operative recovery.

After your operation, your surgeon will outline a specific recovery plan which you should follow carefully. It takes time to heal after surgery, therefore it is important not to attempt exercises not prescribed by your surgeon.

• If necessary, have single-serving meals prepared and frozen prior to surgery. Having meals that may be easily re-heated are also easy to clean up.
• Have enough loose and comfortable clothing already cleaned and set aside for your recovery period.
• To avoid climbing stairs, it may be necessary to have your sleeping arrangements temporarily moved to the first floor of your home. Also, un-tucking bedding allows for easier access in and out of your bed.
• Have remote controls, telephones, medications and other frequently used items in easy-to-reach locations.
• Contact friends or family members ahead of time to arrange the assistance you may need in your recovery. Some assistance after total joint replacement will be necessary and beneficial.
• Have all loose rugs, electrical cords, stools or other trip hazards removed from walking paths. It may be helpful to have paths widened to avoid accidents and for easier maneuvering with a walker or cane.