KNEE
So, you just got a new hip or knee replacement? Now that the scary part is done, it is time to get to the harder part, which is recovery. What are the most common mistakes that we make after joint replacement?
1. Not being diligent with physical therapy.
a. Joint replacement will fix the bones from rubbing together and causing debilitating pain. Now, it is time to retrain our body how to walk. It is imperative to rebuild the strength and range of motion that we lost from years of limiting our activities due to pain. In general, the more proactive we are with therapy early, the faster we recover, and the better our outcome is.
2. Not taking medications as prescribed.
a. After joint replacement, you will likely be started on several new medications. It is very common to be less mobile for a few weeks after surgery, so you will be started on blood thinning medications to decrease the risk for developing blood clots. Also, surgery can be painful, so you will be started on a regimen of medications to take the edge off the pain. While medications will not make recovery completely “pain-free,” it will certainly help. Don’t wait until you have 10/10 pain to take pain medications.
3. Declutter your home.
a. Falling after surgery can be devastating. It is essential to remove throw rugs from walking paths, and tape down rug edges if they are prominent. Clear loose electrical cords or charging cables. Consider installing grab bars in the shower and near a toilet. Preparing your home before surgery can decrease the likelihood of falls.
Best of luck on your joint replacement journey! While the first several weeks of recovery can be intimidating, most patients are extremely pleased afterwards and wish they had done it sooner.
