If you are experiencing severe, persistent joint pain, joint replacement surgery can help you find relief from your pain. If you are scheduled for Venice joint replacement surgery, you may be concerned about how long it will take to recover and return to your daily activities. Although recovering from any surgery takes some time, there are things you can do to speed up recovery after joint replacement surgery.
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Manage your pain
You may be a firm believer in pushing through the pain, but after your surgery is not an appropriate time to give in to that belief. You should tell your doctor how much pain you are in and allow them to assist you in managing it. If you are in pain for too long, it might rewire how your nervous system works, making your nerves hypersensitive and increasing your risk of future pain. Managing your pain is very important because your recovery progress will directly affect how actively you engage in physical therapy.
Engage in physical therapy
Moving the new joint and the rest of your body is essential for a rapid recovery. Movement improves circulation, reduces swelling, and speeds recovery. Your recovery period starts when the medical staff assists you in getting up and walking about the hospital. Engage in physical therapy and do exercises at home after leaving the hospital. Also, you may need to use an assistive device for some time.
Physical therapy focuses on gait training and range-of-motion exercises to help patients learn to walk again with their new joints. You may begin doing strength training and returning to your regular routine whenever you feel ready. Your physical therapist will also provide you with at-home exercises to do.
Don’t do more exercise than recommended
Although physical therapy and home exercises can help you recover faster, avoid doing more exercises than your doctor recommends. The kind of joint replacement you had, the degree of difficulty of your operation, and your current state of health will determine the extent to which you may exercise while recovering. If you push yourself too soon after surgery, you risk irritating the incision, reinjuring the joint, and extending your recovery time.
Eat a healthy diet
Getting your body the nourishment it needs is crucial for a quick recovery. A balanced diet rich in protein, vitamins, and minerals is essential for both healing and maintaining a strong immune system. Consume a lot of lean meats, fresh fruits and vegetables, and whole grains. You need to consume water frequently throughout the day in order to maintain healthy fluid levels. You’ll recover more quickly and reduce inflammation if you stay away from processed meals, sugary beverages, and excessive alcohol.
Get enough rest
If you want to recover faster, listen to your body and relax. Slow down and let your joint recuperate following surgery. It is natural to want to return to regular activities, but pushing yourself too soon might slow your recovery. Remember that each day takes you closer to full recovery.
Call 360 Orthopedics to book your appointment for joint replacement surgery.