Preparing for joint replacement surgery involves more than showing up on the scheduled day. Every step you take matters, from following instructions from your surgeon to creating a recovery-friendly home. But knowing what not to do can be just as important as knowing what to do. Here’s what you shouldn’t do before joint replacement surgery.
Ignore Your Surgeon’s Pre-Surgery Guidelines
Your surgeon provides specific instructions for a reason. These might include fasting for particular hours, adjusting medications, or refraining from certain foods. Skipping these steps could complicate your procedure or even delay it.
For example, eating when you must fast can affect anesthesia, increasing risks during surgery. So, listen to your medical team, even if some guidance feels inconvenient. After all, you want a smooth procedure to ensure the best results.
Overlook Healthy Eating and Hydration
Fueling your body with nutritious food helps recovery. Conversely, sugary or processed foods can slow wound healing, increase inflammation, and leave you sluggish during recovery. Hydration also matters.
Surgery and medications can impact your hydration levels, so consuming plenty of fluids can give you a head start on healing. Proper hydration can also support joint lubrication and improve circulation, which are especially important after joint replacements.
Fail To Build Upper Body Strength
Failing to build upper body strength is another thing you shouldn’t do before joint replacement surgery. Often, you will rely on your upper body for crutches and walkers after the procedure, and neglecting exercises can make recovery harder.
Simple movements, such as chair dips or resistance-band stretches, can give you the strength you’ll rely on daily during recovery. Besides building strength, follow these tips on preparing for your joint replacement to maximize your time.
Procrastinate on Home Preparation
Your space must support a safe recovery when you return home after surgery. Waiting until the last minute to declutter or adjust can create hazards. Clearing walkways, placing essential items within reach, or installing grab bars in your bathroom helps you heal. Preparing in advance isn’t just about safety; it’s about comfort. You’ll feel more at ease knowing your home is recovery ready.
Pro Tip: Enlist your family and friends to help you prepare your home for post-surgery recovery. They may spot overlooked hazards, such as loose cords or uneven rugs.
Hesitate To Arrange Your Support System
Surgery and recovery involve many extra hands, from transportation to meals or basic household tasks. Having a support system in place allows you to focus on recovery. Neglecting to arrange your support system can leave you overwhelmed or overextended physically. Arrange for a friend, family member, or hired caregiver to help when needed. You can also coordinate with neighbors or community groups for additional support.
