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Back to Work
Many patients return to work after the six-week follow-up visit.
Tips to remember for returning to work include:
• Avoid heavy lifting after you return to work.
• Avoid standing or sitting for long periods of time.
• Avoid activities such as frequently climbing stairs or climbing ladders.
• Avoid kneeling, stooping, bending forward or any position that puts the new joint under extreme strain.
• Expect a period of adjustment. Most people return to work with few problems. However, you may find the first several days very tiring. Give yourself time to adjust to work again and gradually this should improve.
Continue Exercise Program
Continue to exercise. Many patients stop working with physical therapy during this time. However, exercising is the most important activity to increase strength and leads to the best outcome. Work or home activities should not replace your exercise program.
Comply with all Restrictions
Although you are feeling back to normal, it is important to understand and follow the restrictions your surgeon discussed with you. Any restrictions are to protect your operative hip or knee as you continue to heal. If you want to achieve a successful outcome, be patient and follow your surgeon’s instructions.
Three Month Follow-Up
You will see your surgeon for another follow-up visit about 3 months after surgery. We encourage you to resume normal activities both inside and outside the home. Helpful tips:
• Be realistic and pace yourself and gradually resume activities.
• Increase your walking distance and activities, but not all at once.
• Keep a cane in the trunk of your car to aid with discomfort, or uneven or icy ground.
• Enjoy the benefits of your total joint.
• Continue to call with any questions or concerns. Our staff is always available to assist you.
Six Months and Future Follow-Up Visits
Your next appointment is six months after surgery, then once a year unless told otherwise. These appointments give you a chance to discuss any concerns about your total joint replacement or other joints in which symptoms may develop.
Lifelong Fitness
The goal of your surgery is to give you a new joint that allows you to perform everyday activities without pain. However, this joint is not indestructible. Avoid sports or other activities that may put stress on the joint until discussed with your surgeon. Stay as active as you can after recovering from your surgery.
Ask your surgeon or therapist about activities and exercises that are right for you. It may or may not be appropriate to return to the exercise routine that you used before surgery.
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