Back to Normal after Total Joint Replacement

approximate read time: 2 min

After a hip or knee replacement, most patients look forward to one thing the most–returning to the activities they love. Whether that’s golfing, gardening, walking the dog, or simply just moving around without pain, getting back to your daily routine is a big milestone in your recovery. 

Have a Coach!

Coaches aren’t just for sports! A coach for your total joint replacement (TJR) can be a friend or relative who supports you before, during, and after your surgery. They’ll be in your corner every step of the way.

Before Surgery:

  • Accompany you to pre-op appointments
  • Help prepare your home

During Your Hospital Stay:

  • Attend physical therapy with you
  • Assist with walking and mobility
  • Provide a timely ride home

After Surgery:

  • Help manage medications and schedule
  • Prepare meals and run errands
  • Care for pets and family members

More about the role of a coach can be found here.

Get an Early Start!

Recovery begins before surgery. Preparing your home in advance makes your recovery smoother and safer. 

  • Cook and freeze meals in individual portions
  • Set up a recovery space with essentials within reach (phone, remote, medications, tissues, etc.)
  • Remove trip-and-fall hazards like cords, furniture, rugs, and clutter.

An extensive home preparation guide can be found here!

Start Moving!

Exercise is an important part of the healing process. Many patients begin physical therapy the same day as surgery. Your PT may teach you things like how to:

  • Get in and out of bed and vehicles
  • Use a walker or cane
  • Climb stairs
  • Perform basic exercises. 

Keep Moving!

Physical therapy doesn’t end when you leave the hospital. Continue to do your at home exercises and follow your physical therapist’s instructions until your follow-up appointment. At that time, your doctor will provide the next steps for regaining strength and movement in your new joint. For more information about physical therapy at the Bone and Joint Center, click here.

Returning to What You Love!

Once cleared by your doctor, you can ease back into many favorite activities! Low impact options like golf, Pilates, and swimming are typically allowed. It is not recommended to practice contact sports, high impact aerobics, or trampoline training after a TJR. For an extensive list of activities after surgery,click here.

With a strong support system, thoughtful preparation, and dedication to recovery, you’ll be back to the life and activities you love after a hip or knee replacement.

Read other blog posts here!