Joint replacement surgeries, also known as arthroplasties, are popular medical procedures that can provide relief from chronic pain and improve mobility and overall quality of life. They can be performed on joints ranging from hips and knees to shoulders, ankles and elbows. While this type of surgery may be needed after a fall or other injury, arthritis is the most common reason for an arthroplasty.
Planning for a successful outcome is important. You can maximize your recovery and ensure a smoother transition home by preparing for your rehabilitation before you even enter the hospital. Here are a few tips to help you do that.
Consult With Your Healthcare Team
Before undergoing joint replacement surgery, it’s vital to have a comprehensive discussion with your healthcare team. Your surgeon should provide you with a detailed plan for the surgery itself, including what to expect before, during and after the procedure. Having a clear understanding of the surgery and recovery process can reduce anxiety and help you feel more prepared.
It’s also essential to ask about post-surgical recovery. Surgeons often recommend patients continue their recovery at a short-term rehabilitation center. Teams at these facilities are experts at helping patients return to their highest practical level of independence.
One step you can take prior to surgery is to tour local rehabilitation programs and meet with the therapy staff to discuss their program. Each team can share their approach to care and protocols, as well as explain how they’ll create an individual care plan tailored to your goals. You’ll also want to take time to research providers’ success rates and reviews. At ASC, for example, we’re proud to share that eight of our short-term rehab centers have earned national rankings by U.S. News.
Prepare Your Home for Recovery
Your home environment will play a fundamental role in your post-surgery recovery. Begin by identifying any obstacles that may make it difficult to move around during your rehabilitation. Remove tripping hazards, such as clutter or loose rugs, and make sure there’s ample space for you to walk with crutches, a walker or a cane.
Consider making modifications in the areas where you’ll be spending the most time, particularly the bathroom and bedroom. You might want to install grab bars in the bathroom for support, or consider a raised toilet seat to make sitting and standing easier. In the bedroom, set up a comfortable place where you can rest and elevate your leg or joint, as instructed by your doctor.
If you will be transitioning to a short-term rehabilitation center following surgery, the physical and occupational therapy teams will likely be able to make recommendations to help with this step. Here are additional tips you may find very helpful.
Stock Up on Necessary Supplies
Before your surgery, obtain a list of the supplies you’ll need during recovery. This includes assistive devices, over-the-counter pain relievers, ice packs and compression stockings (if prescribed). Your doctor or physical therapist may also recommend equipment like crutches, a walker or a raised toilet seat, which you can get in advance.
Having everything on hand will save you from having to make trips to the store or wait for deliveries, which can be physically challenging during the early stages of recovery.
Focus on Pre-Surgery Fitness and Nutrition
A healthy body is better equipped to handle the stress of surgery and speed up recovery. In the weeks leading up to your joint replacement surgery, focus on improving your overall fitness, if possible. Talk with your surgeon about what types of gentle exercise they can prescribe to help you build strength without further injuring the damaged joint.
In addition to physical fitness, proper nutrition plays a vital role in recovery. Eating a balanced diet rich in protein, vitamins and minerals will help your body heal more effectively. Adequate hydration and healthy foods will also support your immune system, reduce inflammation and improve overall energy levels.
Prepare Mentally and Emotionally
Mental and emotional preparedness is just as important as physical readiness. Recovering from a joint replacement can be challenging, and it’s normal to experience feelings of frustration, fatigue or even depression. Start developing a positive mindset before the surgery by setting realistic expectations and understanding that recovery may take time.
Schedule a Pre-Surgical Tour at ASC
If you will be undergoing a joint replacement surgery soon, we encourage you to schedule an appointment at an ASC location near you. It will give you an opportunity to meet our clinical and therapy teams, ask questions and tour our rehab center. An in-person visit is the best way to get the information you need to choose the right rehabilitation provider for you. Download an easy to read brochure here.
