Nearly 19 million orthopedic surgeries are performed each year in the United States, with an extremely high satisfaction rate. The vast majority of patients experience significant improvement in their function and overall quality of life following ortho surgery.
While patients can’t reverse some factors affecting successful orthopedic surgery rehabilitation – such age, physical health and bone health – there are many things you can do to optimize your chances for a successful orthopedic surgery recovery.
A comprehensive ortho surgery rehab program is essential for optimal recovery and long-term success. (Psst: Rehab is a lot more than physical therapy!)
Since orthopedic surgeries are not usually acute or urgent, most patients will have several weeks or even a few months to get prepared for the best post-surgical outcome. Our surgeons and care team encourage patients to follow this seven-point plan for successful orthopedic surgery rehabilitation.
1. Pre-surgery exercises (“pre-hab”)
Why it matters:
Studies show that “prehabilitation” – building muscle strength and flexibility prior to surgery – leads to faster recovery and better function after surgery. Plus, the stronger and healthier your body is before the procedure, the easier it can overcome the stress of surgery.
What to do:
The type and intensity of the pre-surgery exercises depend on the joint being treated and your current fitness/activity level. Your orthopedic care team will give you specific pre-surgery exercises to start several weeks or a month before surgery. If you don’t receive “pre-hab” exercises, ask your care team about it.
Cary Orthopaedics uses the MyMobility app to guide patients undergoing certain procedures, such as joint replacements.
2. Nutrition
Why it matters:
Good nutrition supports the body’s response to the stress of surgery and promotes the healing process in so many ways!
For example, carbohydrates reduce the body’s stress response to the surgery itself. A diet high in fiber before and in the days following surgery helps to minimize constipation, a common side effect of anesthesia and pain medication. A high-protein diet builds muscle strength for a faster recovery time.
What to do:
Start your pre-surgery nutrition at least two weeks before your surgery and continue the good habits long afterward. Lean proteins like fish and chicken, protein shakes, leafy greens, fruits and vegetables are all part of a joint-healthy diet.
We recommend Enroute nutritional supplements for pre- and post-surgery nutrition.
An important note: DON’T consume any foods at least 6 to 8 hours before your surgery or according to your doctor’s orders. Food or liquid in your stomach while under anesthesia can cause serious complications, including infection, lung damage or breathing problems.
3. Smoking cessation
Why it matters:
Smoking increases your risk of problems during and after surgery – including lung/breathing issues while under anesthesia. Additionally, smoking reduces blood flow, which can slow wound healing in the weeks after your procedure.
What to do:
At a minimum, quit smoking 4 to 6 weeks before your orthopedic surgery and stay smoke-free for four weeks after. We realize this is a big deal for many people, but it’s an important step to achieve full recovery.
If you need help quitting smoking, consult these resources:
4. Home care support team
Why it matters:
Depending on your type of surgery, you’ll likely need help for several days or weeks. Your helper must be there during your hospital stay if you’re having an outpatient procedure and to drive you home once you’re discharged.
Once at home, post-operative support is crucial for your physical and emotional recovery. Having a care provider reduces the risk of surgical complications, ensures adherence to medical instructions and provides you with emotional support. After most orthopedic surgeries, patients need help getting around the house, preparing meals, managing medications, and getting to follow-up appointments and physical therapy.
Even after you’re more mobile and able to drive, you still need friends in your corner to help keep you on track with post-surgery physical therapy, nutrition and your overall state of mind.
What to do:
Don’t be shy about asking for help! Recruit reliable family members or friends to help you. If you live with another person, perhaps they can be your care provider.
Make sure your support team understands your post-op needs, which might require them to take time off work.
5. Pain management
Why it matters:
Pain management is crucial for successful orthopedic surgery rehabilitation. Reducing pain promotes comfort, facilitates recovery and prevents the development of chronic pain. Managing pain also leads to faster healing and a quicker return to normal activities.
What to do:
Pain management methods for orthopedic surgeries vary considerably, depending on the procedure and your medical history. Your orthopedic physician may prescribe non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), opioids or other medications. For certain procedures, you may receive a localized pain pump. You may be given multiple pain relief methods, so pay close attention to medication instructions.
While our surgeons prescribe opioids with caution, this class of medical may be appropriate for short-term use, depending on the surgery and the individual patient.
Patients sometimes respond well to non-medicinal pain management techniques – such as electric stimulation, passive motion therapy or acupuncture.
Above all, follow your doctor’s instructions to reduce pain. Discuss your medical history, other medications you take and any concerns about side effects with your care team. They will develop the appropriate pain relief plan for you.
6. Physical therapy
Why it matters:
Your Cary Orthopaedics surgeons are among the best in the business, but the surgery is just the beginning of your journey. The effort you put into your physical rehabilitation will directly determine the long-term success of your surgery.
Physical and/or occupational therapy are essential to returning to work, hobbies and daily activities as quickly as possible. Patients committed to a strong post-surgical PT plan have the best success in regaining maximum flexibility, strength and mobility. Making progress in your range of motion in the early days after surgery is super important!
What to do:
Your orthopedic surgeon will give you a prescription or referral for physical therapy with instructions about when to start, how often to go, and for how long. Your first PT appointment will likely take place soon after your surgery – within days or a week, depending on your procedure.
It’s important to adhere to the frequency of the PT sessions recommended by your doctor and continue for the duration. A trained physical therapist knows the therapy you need and the exercises you should be doing. He or she will ensure you are progressing through the expected stages of recovery.
In between your physical therapy sessions, be sure to do the at-home exercises your therapist gives you.
7. Mental and emotional outlook
Why it matters:
Having an optimistic mindset before surgery and staying upbeat and focused during your post-surgery rehab is a big part of a successful outcome. Psychological resilience and positivity are associated with lower levels of stress, improved immune function, better coping skills, faster healing and better pain management.
What to do:
Spend some time in the weeks before your surgery thinking about the positive results you want. Surround yourself with friends who support you emotionally and will cheer you on.
Get adequate sleep before and after your surgery. This will help reduce anxiety and improve your mood. It also puts your body in the best situation for healing.
And finally, get moving after your surgery! Not only does physical activity increase blood flow, decrease swelling and get your vital organs moving again. It can also improve mood, reduce stress, and enhance mental well-being.
Orthopedic surgery rehabilitation for best outcomes
Remember, specific prehabilitation and rehabilitation instructions depend on the type of surgery and the patient – everyone is different. You can trust your Cary Orthopaedics’ care team to develop an individualized plan for you. We will guide you through the steps for a successful orthopedic surgery rehabilitation.
Be sure to check out these additional resources to prepare for your surgery at Cary Ortho.
