Having a joint replacement surgery is a big decision for any individual. Typically, joint replacement surgeries are elective procedures. When deciding to proceed forward with a joint replacement surgery, one should consider asking these questions of their surgeon:
What is the expected recovery time?
With the advancement in minimally invasive techniques, most surgical candidates are up on their feet and discharged the same day as their surgery. In general, patients are able to start driving in as little as 2-4 weeks and some even start going back to work at low demand jobs within a month from surgery. By 6 weeks many of our patients are starting to get back into their normal routines such as taking evening walks, going back to the gym, returning to work and even some recreational activities such as hitting golf or tennis balls. Ask your doctor if you qualify for outpatient surgery. Overall recovery varies from patient to patient based on one's overall health and should be discussed with your surgeon.
How to best prepare for surgery?
You will typically have a pre-operative meeting with one of our physical therapist to learn exercises before and after the operation, instruction on how to use a walker and cane and strategies for decluttering your house to make recovery easier. Keep in mind that strengthening the hips and knees will provide better support for the implant. Avoid or quit smoking in the months leading up to your surgery; this will help speed up your recovery. Make sure you eat a well balanced diet including protein so your body has the building blocks it needs to heal after your surgery!
What can happen if I decide not to do the surgery?
The knee and hip are weight-bearing joints. When damaged, mobility is limited and daily living becomes challenging. In addition, the joint will become more stiff and painful making movement even more difficult. The muscles around the hip or knee will become weak and start to deteriorate. The risk for other health conditions like heart disease and diabetes also increase. Living in chronic pain will erode the enjoyment of daily life.
Joint replacement surgery is a life-changing procedure giving you quality of life and freedom. Prepare a list of questions for your appointment and listen closely for any areas needing clarification. For an in-depth evaluation of your hip or knee condition and a personalized treatment plan, contact Dr. Andrew Ehmke.
Dr. Andrew Ehmke
Dr. Andrew Ehmke is a board-certified and fellowship-trained joint replacement surgeon specializing in robotic-assisted and minimally invasive hip and knee replacement in Chicagoland.
Tags: Joint Replacement Surgery, Knee Surgery, Hip Surgery, Physical Therapy, Dr. Andrew Ehmke
