Surgery can be physically and mentally challenging and is one of the most important health decisions a patient can make. When there is severe injury, deformity, or damage to the hip, surgery can provide long-term relief and function restoration that other treatments cannot provide.
If your doctor has recommended surgery, you should prepare for it ahead of time to ensure your journey goes smoothly and without complications.
Adjust Your Medications Before Surgery
Before surgery, your surgeon will have an in-depth discussion with you regarding your overall health, other medical conditions you have, medications and supplements that you take, your nutrition and lifestyle, and much more.
During this time, your surgeon will instruct you on which changes to make to your diet, lifestyle, and most importantly, medications before surgery. For example, blood thinners that reduce coagulation should not be taken a few days before your surgery. Patients with underlying heart conditions or those at a higher risk for blood clots often take these medications. Aspirin and herbal medication may lead to bleeding, so your physician will likely recommend not taking them before your surgery.
Lowering Your Risks Before Surgery
Your healthcare provider will disclose all the possible complications and risks of the procedure during your pre-surgery appointment. You will need to implement a few lifestyle changes before your operation. If you are a smoker, you must stop smoking before the surgery. Drinking is also discouraged. Eating a healthy diet and losing weight is also essential if your doctor recommends it.
These lifestyle changes will help prepare your body for a speedy recovery after the operation. They will also lower your risk of complications and improve wound healing, which is important to recovery.
Plan for Post-Operation Recovery at Home
You should prepare the place you will stay during recovery. This will help make your recovery smoother and problem-free.
Ensure everything you need is within reach, such as the remote control, blankets, medications, food, and other supplies. Stow away any household items that may cause you to trip on the floor. For example, loose rugs, scattered power cords, or anything that may interfere with safe movement should be removed.
Establish a sleeping area on the ground floor of your home for the first few weeks, as going up and down stairs is not a good idea for your newly-treated hip. If needed, install handrails in the bathroom to help you when getting up or sitting down.
Get Help During Post-Surgery Recovery
Arrange for a loved one to take care of you for the first few days post-surgery. You will be very limited in what you can do independently during the first few days and will likely need a lot of rest and sleep. As you get used to your limitations and learn to walk and function post-surgery, it’s best to have someone else take care of cooking meals, cleaning around your home, and taking care of errands.
Follow the Doctor’s Orders
After your surgery, your medical team will observe you to check for health complications before discharging you.
Pain Medication
Your doctor will prescribe pain medication to aid you in your post-surgery recovery. Remember to take it on time and as directed.
Physical Therapy
Besides medication, your doctor may recommend physical therapy to help strengthen your muscles and get you back on your feet. Your physical therapist can help you do exercises that restore mobility and strength in the lower extremities. They can also teach you to use assistive devices, like crutches, as these instruments can aid you during your post-surgery recovery.
Stick with the regimen and schedule based on your physical therapist’s recommendation.
Follow-Up Care
Follow-up appointments are often set after discharge to help your doctor monitor your progress. Attend all appointments to ensure your doctor can review the progress you’re making and that any issues can be caught and dealt with promptly. Do not hesitate to ask your physician about their recommended post-surgery guidelines.
Hip Surgery in Kingsport, Tennessee
Surgery is a significant health event you shouldn’t have to go through alone. A supportive and knowledgeable medical team is essential to helping you prepare for your hip operation. At Associated Orthopaedics, we provide high-quality orthopedic healthcare in the Tri-Cities region. Founded in 1953, we serve our patients by managing and diagnosing all sorts of orthopedic conditions and recommending personalized treatments.
Hip surgery is just one of the many services we provide to our patients. Our team of trusted healthcare providers is excited to give you outstanding orthopedic care. If you or a loved one have questions about hip surgery, call us at (423) 245-3161 to schedule an appointment. You may also use our online request form for your convenience. We look forward to serving you!
