Possible Complications After Joint Surgery
Be aware of blood clots after surgery. If you have a fever, chills, body aches, swelling, and redness, call your doctor. It may be normal, but it is preferred that you take caution of symptoms worsening over time and creating a problem.
Getting Moving After Surgery
It is important to get up and start moving after surgery. It helps with circulation, breathing, overall health and well-being. Start practicing walking to get desensitized to the anxiety and pain you may be experiencing initially.
Preparing for Home Recovery
There are criteria and checklists for having a safe home environment during the post-operative period. You should set up your home environment, so it is accessible enough to perform your daily living activities on a single level.
Home Safely
Going home after surgery decreases your risk of complications. Having a social network of family and friends to lean on is crucial to getting you moving and mobilized as soon you go home. Recovery does not end when you leave the hospital.
Transition from Physical Therapy to Self-Directed Exercise
You can return to a healthy active lifestyle of walking, golf, and tennis after joint replacement, but avoid high-impact activities like running and jumping. Opt for low impact activities, like walking and cycling to protect your joints.
Wound Care
The bandages used for your wound contain medicine. Keep it covered a minimum of 48 to 72 hours. Most incisions heal in a few days, and stitches or staples come out after two weeks. Keep your wound clean and dry to prevent infections.