Orthopedics is a medical field that focuses on the health of your musculoskeletal system. This system includes your bones, muscles, and connective tissues. Any bodily system can get damaged from physical trauma, disease, or wear-and-tear. If you have a problem with your musculoskeletal system, it’s best to see an orthopedist.
Arthritis, for example, is a leading reason why people visit an orthopedic doctor. The degenerative joint disease may respond to conservative treatments. However, if non-surgical treatments are no longer effective, your doctor may consider orthopedic surgery.
If your orthopedic doctor determines that you are a good candidate for surgery, here’s a handy guide to help you prepare and manage your expectations before and after the procedure.
Preparing For Orthopedic Surgery
Your doctor will only recommend surgery as a last resort. For instance, your doctor will only consider joint reconstruction for severe degenerative joint diseases like arthritis. Even then, surgery tends to come after exhausting non-surgical treatments, like pain medication, injection therapy, and physical therapy.
Here are some questions to ask your orthopedic doctor before the procedure:
- Why is surgery a good option for me? What are the expected benefits?
- Are there minimally invasive alternatives that I can explore?
- What happens during the procedure? Is it an outpatient or inpatient procedure? If it’s an inpatient procedure, how many days am I expected to stay in the hospital?
- What is your success rate for this procedure? How many similar operations have you performed in the past?
- What are risks and complications that may arise?
- How long will rehabilitation take? What can I do to speed up the recovery process?
You can also prepare to make the necessary adjustments to your home to make life after the surgery easier. For instance, you may find it hard to move the operated body part around after joint surgery. If you live alone, have someone come over to assist you for the first few days after surgery. You will likely need to take time off work, too.
Expect that you will have limited mobility while recovering. If you had joint surgery, you will not be able to move the operated body part as freely as you did before. Try to get assistive devices before your surgery, like crutches or walkers. It may also be a good idea to install handrails in the bathroom to help you move and prevent falls. You can ask your doctor for detailed instructions on using mobility aids.
More importantly, make positive lifestyle choices ahead of surgery. Eat healthy foods and commit to a disciplined exercise regime. Avoid smoking to reduce the risk of surgical and post-surgical complications. Better yet, take this time to quit smoking once and for all. The healthier you are coming into the surgery, the better the chances of a good outcome and speedier recovery.
Recovery From Orthopedic Surgery
After orthopedic surgery, you will go through a rehabilitation period. Your doctor may prescribe some medications to reduce pain and swelling.
After a few days of rest, you will likely start physical therapy. Your physical therapist will craft a personalized rehabilitation plan that includes an exercise program. This plan usually covers stretches, strengthening, and range of motion exercises. Your physical therapist will also teach you how to adjust and perform daily tasks without putting too much pressure on your joints.
Make sure to attend regular checkups with your doctor, so they can monitor your progress. They can give detailed instructions on when you can safely return to normal activities.
Orthopedic Surgery In Farmington Hills, Michigan
Going through orthopedic surgery is a significant decision. However, by working with a competent healthcare provider, you can expect the procedure and the rehabilitation to go without a hitch.
For patient-centered orthopedic surgery, visit Tri-County Orthopedics today. Our team of board-certified orthopedic surgeons can perform a comprehensive assessment of your condition and craft an appropriate treatment plan. Should you require surgery, you can trust our team to help you through each stage of the recovery process.
To schedule an appointment with any of our providers, call us today at (248) 474-5575 or fill out our online appointment request form. We look forward to being your partner in health!
