What Not to Do After Joint Replacement surgery
Regaining your mobility after joint replacement surgery is an exciting prospect. But for a smooth recovery and optimal results, it's crucial to be mindful of certain activities that can stress your new joint. Here's a breakdown of some key things to avoid to ensure a successful post-surgical journey:
Don't Bend Excessively:
The initial days after surgery will naturally involve some limitations on movement. However, even as you regain strength, avoid excessive bending at the waist. This includes actions like picking up objects from the floor or reaching for your socks. Bending excessively can put unnecessary stress on a new hip or knee joint, increasing the risk of dislocation.
TIP: Have assistive devices readily available to you to assist in everyday tasks. This can include long-handled grabbers or shoe horns.
minimize High-Impact Activities:
While activities like running, jumping, or playing high-impact sports may seem tempting as your strength returns, these activities can put significant stress on your new joint. This stress can cause increased wear and tear on the implants, potentially shortening their lifespan.
Instead, focus on low-impact exercises that are gentle on your joints, such as:
Walking
Swimming
Cycling on a stationary bike
Using an elliptical trainer
These low-impact exercises can significantly improve your strength and mobility without putting extra stress on your new joint.
Don't Make Straining Movements:
Certain movements can strain your new joint and increase the risk of dislocation. This includes twisting motions, reaching for objects that require excessive bending, and crossing your legs for extended periods.
WHY IT MATTERS: Improper movements can put undue stress on the joint capsule and ligaments, potentially leading to dislocation or instability.
Don't Ignore Recovery Instructions:
Your doctor is your partner in recovery. They will provide specific instructions regarding weight-bearing, exercises, and physical therapy routines. It's essential to follow these instructions carefully to ensure proper healing and maximize the benefits of your surgery. Skipping exercises or putting too much weight on your new joint too soon can lead to complications like muscle weakness, stiffness, and even dislocation.
By following these guidelines and working closely with your doctor, you can optimize the outcome of your joint replacement surgery and enjoy a renewed sense of mobility and pain-free movement. Remember, a successful recovery is a collaborative effort – listen to your body, follow your doctor's advice, and prioritize activities that promote healing and long-term success.
At San Antonio Orthopaedic Specialists, we understand the challenges of joint pain and the limitations it can impose on your daily activities. Following joint replacement surgery, our team is dedicated to guiding you through a personalized recovery plan to help you regain mobility, strength, and return to the activities you enjoy.