Joint replacement surgery removes damaged joints, such as the hip, knee, or shoulder, and replaces them with artificial components. The procedure relieves chronic pain and restores a greater range of function to the affected joint. After the operation, rehabilitation begins while you are still in the hospital and continues as you transition to outpatient care. Here is some information about rehabilitation and recovery after joint replacement surgery:
Attending Physical Therapy
After surgery, a physical therapist develops a personalized exercise regimen designed to help you regain strength and mobility. Early sessions focus on range-of-motion exercises to reduce stiffness and prevent complications like blood clots. Your therapist may introduce muscle-activation exercises, which encourage circulation and gradual joint use. As recovery progresses, the program will include weight-bearing activities, resistance training, and balance exercises.
A physical therapist demonstrates exercises and monitors your form; they assess your progress and adjust the exercise plan based on your comfort and ability. Over time, you may work on walking with or without assistive devices and building endurance for daily activities. Consistent session participation and practicing exercises at home create a foundation for recovery. The therapist will help you set goals and offer advice to help you manage any obstacles. Because regular feedback helps make necessary adjustments, it also keeps you motivated throughout your rehabilitation journey.
Managing Pain and Swelling
Pain and swelling are common after joint replacement surgery, especially in the initial weeks of recovery. Your medical team provides a structured plan to help manage these symptoms, which might include a combination of medication, rest, and physical strategies. Taking pain relievers as prescribed and communicating about any changes in your discomfort is part of your overall care. Other care techniques include:
- Ice packs can help reduce inflammation and provide relief.
- Elevating the surgical limb above heart level for short intervals uses gravity to support fluid drainage away from the affected area.
- Wearing compression stockings may be recommended to reduce swelling in the lower leg, and they also help improve circulation.
- Gentle movement or specific exercises promote blood flow and prevent stiffness, which aids in controlling pain and swelling.
Communication with your healthcare providers about your comfort levels enables them to tailor strategies that support your healing and well-being. Telling your care team about your pain levels allows them to adjust your management plan as needed. As you heal, the need for these measures typically decreases.
Adjusting Lifestyle
Returning home often requires temporary or permanent modifications to your living space. Installing assistive devices, such as grab bars in the bathroom or a raised toilet seat, provides stability, and they reduce the risk of slipping or falling. If you have limited visibility at night, you may also want to add night lights in hallways and bathrooms to improve safety. In some cases, you might adjust your daily routine by scheduling rest periods throughout the day or asking a family member for assistance with errands or meal preparation as you regain strength.
Learn More About Joint Replacement
Recovery after joint replacement surgery takes time, and success depends on your active involvement, communication with your healthcare team, and willingness to adopt new habits or routines as needed. Relying on your medical team for guidance and support, while also following recommendations on therapy and medication, lays a foundation for your recovery. To learn more about what to expect from joint replacement or how to plan for your recovery, contact a joint replacement specialist today.
