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The joints of the human body tend to wear down the most over time. Unfortunately, this can lead to many needing joint replacement surgery as they age. Additionally, recovery from joint replacement surgery can be a long process that often requires very particular care and consideration to prevent reinjury. If you have recently undergone a joint replacement surgery, here are a few things that you should do and some things you should avoid following your procedure.

Don’t Ignore Your Doctor’s Advice 

After your surgery, your doctor is sure to give you a few pieces of advice on what to do and not do during your recovery period. While you may be eager and easily tempted to get back to your day-to-day lifestyle, it is vital that you adhere to your doctor’s post-surgery plan as closely as possible. Following your doctor’s recommendations as diligently and precisely as possible will only speed up your recovery, while ignoring them can significantly slow your recovery down.

Do Be Sure To Rest

Rest is key to promote healing after any surgery, and joint replacement surgery is no exception. Resting properly after a joint replacement surgery can be difficult for some, especially those who had a particularly active lifestyle beforehand. However, it is important to remember that, even if you’re feeling better, your joints may still not be ready to return to the level of activity required by your previous routine. Therefore, it is vital to rest for the recommended amount of time after your surgery.

Don’t Flex Your Joint

After your surgery, it will also be tempting to try movements that your body is not quite ready for yet. In particular, flexing or putting weight on the joint that was replaced is not advised immediately following joint replacement surgery. If you’re not sure what range of motion will be okay or what should be avoided after your surgery, your doctor will provide you with a recovery timeline and likely recommend physical therapy. After a few weeks, you will be able to do some low-impact resistance exercises that will help you slowly build back strength in and around your new joint.

Do Visit Your Local Orthopaedic Specialist if Your Joint Pain Returns

If pain returns following your joint replacement surgery, it is important to consult with your doctor. The expert team of physical therapists, orthopaedic specialists, and physicians at Orthopaedic Associates of St. Augustine understand how much joint pain can affect your day to day. That is why we are dedicated to helping you get back to your usual routine and full mobility post-surgery.

If you’re experiencing joint pain or any other type of orthopaedic-related discomfort, request an appointment with our team at Orthopaedic Associates of St. Augustine today by scheduling online or calling us at 904-825-0540.

 

Paul Roettges, MD
A member of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons and the American Association of Knee and Hip Surgeries, Dr. Roettges performs hip and knee replacements as well as complex unresolved hip and knee pain.