By taking the steps outlined below to optimize your health and environment, you’ll be well-prepared for joint replacement surgery and recovery. Remember, a little preparation can go a long way toward ensuring a smooth, successful outcome. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you prepare.

1. Focus on Your Health

• Maintain a healthy weight: Excess weight can increase the stress on your new joint and complicate recovery. Work with your doctor or a nutritionist to achieve a healthy weight through balanced eating and regular exercise.
• Quit smoking: If you smoke, consider a smoking cessation program to help you quit before surgery.
  Manage chronic conditions: If you have diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, or other conditions, follow your doctor’s recommendations and attend all pre-surgery appointments.
• Build strength and flexibility: Participate in physical therapy and engage in low-impact exercises, like swimming and walking, to strengthen the muscles around your joint and improve flexibility.
• Review medications: Discuss your current medications and supplements with your healthcare team. They will advise which ones to stop or adjust prior to surgery.

2. Prepare Your Home

• Create a recovery-friendly space: Set up a comfortable, accessible area where you can recover that is close to a bathroom and, if possible, on the first floor to avoid stairs.
• Remove hazards: Eliminate tripping hazards, like loose rugs, cords, and clutter. Consider using nonslip mats in the bathroom and secure any handrails.
• Arrange for mobility aids: Your surgeon may recommend using a walker, crutches, or a cane after surgery, so have these items ready before surgery.
• Stock up on essentials: Stock up on groceries, medications, and other necessities. Consider precooking meals or arranging for meal delivery services.

3. Have a Post-Surgery Plan & Follow It

• Enlist help: Ask a family member or friend to assist you during the first few weeks of recovery. They can help with transportation, household chores, and errands.
• Understand your recovery plan: Knowing your recovery milestones can help you stay on track and motivated.
• Schedule follow-up appointments: Ensure you have follow-up appointments scheduled to monitor your progress and address any concerns.
• Follow pre-surgery instructions: Your surgical team will provide specific instructions to prepare for your procedure. Follow them closely, including fasting guidelines and pre-surgery hygiene steps.

Whether you are considering joint replacement surgery or preparing for your procedure, our total joint surgeons are here for you at Kansas Joint & Spine Specialists. Please call (316) 219-8299 or request an appointment online today.