Orthopedic surgery has advanced by leaps and bounds in recent years. If you are having an operation related to your musculoskeletal condition, expect improvement in your injury, arthritis or other orthopedic problems. Also, expect a time of recovery and rehabilitation. What follows here are some tips for living successfully after orthopedic surgery.
Tip #1 Understand That You Need to Rest and Heal
After orthopedic surgery, your body needs time to rest and heal. It can be tempting to push yourself too hard, especially if you are an active person.
However, overextending your physical strength and stamina can actually do more harm than good. Your doctor will give you specific instructions for post-operative care, including how long to rest and when you can start physical therapy, return to work, play your sport, drive and so on.
Tip #2 Follow a Healthy Diet
A healthy diet promotes successful recovery and rehabilitation after orthopedic surgery. Eating nutrient-rich foods, such as fruits, vegetables, lean protein and whole grains, can help support healing and boost your immune system. Your orthopedic surgeon or therapist may recommend specific vitamins and supplements to speed up healing and to promote joint health.
Tip #3 Take Care of Your Surgical Wound
Follow your orthopedic surgeon’s instructions carefully. Watch for signs of infection, such as increasing pain, swelling, redness, discharge and fever. Keep your sutures and dressing clean and dry. Report any problems to your orthopedic specialist right away.
Tip #4 Wear Your Brace or Use Your Assistive Device as Instructed
Your doctor or physical therapist will tell you to wear a brace for additional support and protection of your operated area. Also, make sure you use your cane, walker or other assistive device consistently. It will add a measure of safety when you walk, go up and down stairs and generally move around your home or workplace.
Tip #5 Rest and Use Pain Medications as Prescribed
Do not overdo it while you recover. Gaining strength, range of motion and endurance takes time. Be persistent with your physical therapy, but rest as needed.
Take pain medications as directed, particularly if you anticipate a higher level of activity. Tell your doctor or therapist what movements and exercises seem to help, and which may be too difficult or painful. Never exercise or move with severe pain.
Tip #6 Stay Well-hydrated
Your joints need lubrication, especially when you are healing from an injury or orthopedic procedure. So, be sure to keep your water bottle handy, and drink plenty of water throughout your day. The rest of your body will benefit from hydration as well.
Tip #7 Stick with Your Physical Therapy
With many orthopedic surgeries, such as hip or knee replacement, PT begins right away–even before you go home from surgery. Your PT plan will be tailored to your needs and goals.
You should know, however, that therapy takes time, patience and effort. It will, in the long run, reap many benefits such as:
- Improved movement, range of motion and flexibility
- Better strength, balance, endurance and coordination
- Speedier healing
- Lessened swelling and pain
- Reduced need for pain medications
So, expect some weeks to months of recovery and rehabilitation, depending on your particular surgery. Gradually, you will return to your job and home responsibilities with renewed movement, strength and vigor.
Tip #8: Take Advantage of Technology and Education
In this digital age, technology has become an invaluable tool for many aspects of our lives. This applies to post-operative recovery and physical therapy, too. There are numerous apps and online programs to help you track your progress, learn exercises, and communicate with your therapist or other providers.
Also, take advantage of your orthopedic surgeon’s wealth of knowledge and experience. Before your surgery, ask questions about what recovery will look like. Ask your orthopedic surgeon what limitations you could experience long-term.
For instance, if you had a total knee replacement, you may need to avoid high-impact activities like jumping. If your job involves heavy lifting, you may need some modifications to your job tasks. Knowing this information can help you plan your future physical activities and prevent any potential setbacks in your recovery.
Orthopedic Surgeon Near You in Hartford and Tolland Counties, CT, and in Springfield, MA
Find the best orthopedic surgeons and recovery plans at Advanced Orthopedics New England. Our experienced staff will fine-tune your rehabilitation and recovery, so you have the best possible surgical outcome.
Contact us today to learn more and to book your consultation with one of our board-certified doctors. Call (860) 728-6740. We have five locations to serve you. We hope to see you soon
