As with any other type of surgery, the success of an orthopedic procedure lies in the hands of not only the surgeon but also the patient.
Even with the development of minimally invasive orthopedic procedures, which allow for a faster recovery, navigating the phase still requires patience, diligence, self-discipline, and adherence to the doctor’s orders.
If you’re scheduled for an orthopedic surgery, here are a few tips to help you have a quick, safe, and successful recovery.
1.) Make prior arrangements.
Make prior arrangements to have someone drive you home and stay with you during the first few days after your surgery to monitor your medications, facilitate incision care, and assist you around the house until you are back on your feet again.
Also, before your appointment, make sure to set up your home to help make your recovery easier when you come back. Equip your bathroom with safety aids. Put some nonslip strips on your floors and stairs, and remove items that can cause you to trip. Handrails and shower seats are also useful devices.
2.) Strictly follow your doctor’s postoperative instructions.
Your orthopedic surgeon will give you a list of specific instructions regarding what you should and should not do during your recovery. You must follow these instructions as best as you can to avoid complications or trauma to the surgical site.
Your postoperative care kit may also include information about when it’s safe for you to return to your normal activities, signs of complications (e.g., bleeding, excessive pain, fever, redness at the incision line, etc.), and when to call your doctor.
3.) Work closely with your physical therapist.
While it can feel burdensome, physical therapy plays an indispensable role in your recovery. It can help you minimize your risk of complications and ensure you are healing properly.
Your physical therapist will work with your orthopedic surgeon to create a suitable rehabilitation program for you. Your PT will likely employ patient education strategy, therapeutic modalities (e.g., hot and cold therapy, massage therapy, etc.), and exercises, aimed at the following:
- Improving circulation and promoting healing
- Minimizing scar tissue formation
- Helping you regain balance, mobility, and independence
- Providing pain relief while reducing your reliance on pain medications
- Enhancing your range of motion
- Reducing swelling and stiffness
- Minimizing your risk of future injuries
Ultimately, using the approaches mentioned above, your physical therapist will help you move ahead step by step along the path to complete recovery.
Orthopedic Surgery in Little Rock, AR
At Bowen Hefley Orthopedics, board-certified orthopedic surgeon Dr. William Hefley is committed to delivering unparalleled care and exceptional treatment outcomes. He will take all necessary measures to ensure you have a safe and successful recovery, so you can get back to doing the things that you love again.
Call our staff at (800) 336-2412, or use this form to schedule an appointment with Dr. Hefley. We offer on-site physical therapy services as part of our commitment to providing our patients with comprehensive care.
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