Preparing for joint replacement surgery can feel overwhelming, but getting your body ready ahead of time can make a big difference in your recovery. Whether you’re having a hip, knee or shoulder replacement, prehabilitation and proper planning can help speed up your healing process and improve outcomes. Here’s what you should focus on before surgery to ensure a smoother recovery, with help from the physical therapists at Compassus.
- Strengthen Your Body with Prehabilitation
Prehabilitation, or pre-surgery physical therapy, is all about getting your body strong and flexible before surgery. Working with a physical therapist at Compassus helps you build strength in the muscles around the affected joint. This can make a big difference after surgery, as stronger muscles will support your joint during recovery and help prevent complications. Preoperative physical therapy has also been shown to reduce post-operative infection rates by improving circulation and overall physical health before surgery. Your physical therapist will guide you through exercises that focus on strengthening the core, legs and surrounding muscles.
- Understand Pain Management Techniques
Before surgery, it’s essential to learn about pain management options. Pain control after joint replacement surgery is key to staying comfortable and getting back on your feet. At Compassus, we focus on helping you manage pain through a combination of prescribed medications, ice therapy and non-invasive methods like deep breathing exercises. Understanding these techniques before surgery helps reduce anxiety and prepares you to manage your discomfort once you’re home.
- Prepare Your Home for a Safe Recovery
Setting up your home for a smooth recovery can prevent unnecessary strain during your healing process. Your Compassus physical therapist can help with home assessments and provide suggestions, like using raised toilet seats, adding handrails and clearing any obstacles that could lead to falls. You’ll also learn exercises to perform at home to maintain strength and flexibility as you recover.
- Learn About the Benefits of Recovering at Home
Many people don’t realize how much easier and more comfortable it is to recover at home instead of at a clinic. With the support of Compassus home health services, including physical therapy, you can continue your rehabilitation in the comfort of your own home. You’ll work with a therapist who understands your home environment and can provide personalized exercises. Studies show that home therapy can be just as effective as outpatient rehab, especially when it comes to improving mobility and overall quality of life after joint surgery.
- Ask Questions and Get Answers
Having questions about your upcoming surgery and recovery is natural. That’s why Compassus’ physical therapists are here to provide clear answers. Whether it’s about mobility tips, recovery timelines, or managing discomfort at home, we’re here to help guide you through every step. Don’t hesitate to ask about things like:
- Is home therapy as effective as in-clinic physical therapy?
- What exercises can I do to prepare my body?
- How can I prevent complications like blood clots or falls?
Moving Forward with Confidence
Joint replacement surgery is a big step, but with the right preparation, it can lead to a better quality of life. Working with Compassus’ physical therapists before and after surgery gives you the support and guidance you need to succeed. If you or a loved one is preparing for joint replacement surgery, reach out to Compassus to learn more about how we can help make your recovery as smooth as possible.
