Following a debilitating condition or injury, orthopedic surgery serves as the initial stride towards restoring your mobility and strength while alleviating musculoskeletal pain. After orthopedic surgery, it is crucial to commit to rehabilitation and recovery plans to avoid complications and to enjoy the maximum benefits of the surgery.
Like any surgery, the recuperation period after orthopedic surgery warrants some patience. Nevertheless, there are some approaches to accelerate the healing process.
Let’s talk about a few key tips that can help you recover quickly, efficiently, and without complications after orthopedic surgery and where you can go for outstanding orthopedic care in Merriam and Overland Park, KS.
Strictly Follow Post-Op Instructions
After orthopedic surgery, orthopedic surgeons provide some instructions to patients and advise them to meet their physical therapist to start their rehabilitation program. It is important to follow all the instructions of your orthopedic surgeon even if you feel that you don’t like them.
For example, seemingly simple instructions such as avoiding baths after orthopedic surgery are important, as getting your incision wet can interfere with healing and increase the risk of complications.
Stick to the Rehabilitation Plan
Typically, immediately after orthopedic surgery, you meet your physical therapist and other professionals who develop a rehabilitation plan for you. The plan will outline the exercises, activities, and therapies you must undergo to aid your recovery. The rehabilitation plans will aim to increase your range of motion, improve your function, and increase your strength and mobility.
For optimal healing and recovery, do all your physical therapist prescribes, especially home exercises. Attending all your follow-up appointments with your physical therapist is also important for complete and quick recovery, even when you don’t want to.
Manage Post-Op Pain
Keeping your post-op pain under control is crucial. You may be prescribed some type of pain reliever to manage pain. Take those regularly. Do not stop taking them, take a higher medicine dosage or increase the frequency of your pain medicine without consulting your orthopedic doctor.
Care for Your Incision
Typically, after an orthopedic surgery, like shoulder replacement surgery, the stitches are removed one week later, and the incision is covered with a dry bandage.
For quick healing, keep your incision clean and change your dressing daily. It is also recommended to watch for any signs of infections like draining, swelling, redness, and pain. If you are allowed to shower after your surgery, dry the wound by patting it instead of rubbing it. Washing your hands before touching your incision is one of the easiest and most important things to prevent infection and boost recovery.
Drink and Eat Properly
Believe it or not, it is not uncommon for people to lose their appetite after having surgery. After surgery, you may feel a little nauseated, constipated, or don’t feel hungry, possibly due to the effect of anesthesia.
Remember, staying hydrated and eating a healthy diet after orthopedic surgery can help promote healing and minimize complications. Ensure you get enough calories and nutrients when recovering, as inadequate nutrition can increase your risk for post-surgical infections.
Protein plays a crucial role in tissue repair and healing, so try to incorporate protein into your diet. Other nutrients that can help heal after orthopedic surgery are omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants (such as vitamins A, C, and E), nitrates, vitamin D, and minerals like copper, zinc, and selenium. Some foods that your orthopedic doctor will suggest you include in your diet include lean proteins, nutrient-rich vegetables, and dairy.
Get Enough Sleep
During sleep, our body releases growth hormones that help in tissue repair and regeneration. This is why youmust get adequate sleep of at least 8 hours every night to aid healing.
Orthopedic and Sports Medicine in Merriam and Overland Park, KS
If you are experiencing musculoskeletal system pain or injury that does not get better with home remedies, visit us here at Midwest Orthopaedics for comprehensive evaluation and treatment. We have a team of highly trained and skilled orthopedic doctors and sports medicine doctors who treat a broad range of musculoskeletal system problems, from joint pain and stiffness to sports injuries. Our board-certified orthopedic surgeons, sports medicine specialists, and physical therapists are always ready to provide you with the high-quality and compassionate care you need to get back on your feet.
If you would like to schedule a consultation with one of our expert orthopedic doctors or sports medicine specialists, make a call today at (913) 362-8137 or use our online appointment request form.
