Kootenai | Kootenai Health | Issue 3, 2019

22 Howcan I ensure I have a successful recovery following joint replacement surgery? Total joint replacement is one of the most successful operations we are able to perform in the field of orthopedic surgery. Thousands of patients who would otherwise be affected by severe pain are able to continue with the activities they love. When does the rehabilitation process begin? Many patients don’t realize the rehabilitation process begins prior to surgery—by building up their strength and fostering a healthy lifestyle. Patients who allow their bodies to become deconditioned and develop stiff joints or a pronounced limp before surgery are often less satisfied with their outcome after surgery. Patients who maintain some level of physical fitness, strength and functional range of motion find the rehabilitation process much smoother and can resume the activities they enjoy as healing progresses. This does not mean patients who have become deconditioned should despair—but it may mean these patients will have a longer rehabilitation process, as they will be recovering from surgery while also working to regain strength and motion they didn’t already have. After surgery, range-of-motion exercises and rehab typically begin immediately. Patients who have knee or hip replacements are typically out of bed walking with a walker the same day or the next morning. For patients who have shoulder replacement surgery, gentle range-of-motion exercises begin the first postoperative day. Considerations for a successful joint replacement surgery Before surgery: • Maximize range of motion for the arthritic or injured joint. • Maintain support muscle strength. The more strength patients bring into surgery, the less work they will have to put in post-surgery. • If patients struggle to build strength and range of motion on their own, I suggest working with a physical therapist or a trainer leading up to surgery. After surgery: • Patients should mobilize as soon as possible. Working with nursing staff and therapists to get out of bed frequently and properly manage pain is important. • Patients should avoid doing too much during the first few weeks after surgery—this could cause the joints to swell, inhibiting progress. • The supervision of a good physical therapist is important for success. However, patients shouldn’t rely on physical therapy appointments alone. Doing gentle stretching and range-of- motion exercises every day and following the at-home workout plan will aid in a successful recovery. By following the above guidelines and working closely with their medical team, total joint patients can expect to remain active and enjoy their lives for many years after surgery. Have questions? Call Kootenai Clinic Orthopedics at (208) 625-6700 . Ask the Expert Jonathan Linthicum, M.D., Kootenai Clinic Orthopedics Q