More than 1.3 million joint replacement surgeries are performed each year in the United States, including about 800,000 knee replacements and roughly 550,000 hip replacements. While these surgeries can dramatically improve mobility and quality of life for people with chronic joint pain, there’s no denying that the surgery itself is a major procedure that requires a year or more of rehabilitation afterward.
In fact, sticking to your rehabilitation plan is essential for your recovery and for restoring strength and mobility. But when joint replacement rehabilitation and holidays overlap, it can be challenging to keep up with the increased demands of the season while still adhering to your recovery roadmap.
As leading providers of joint replacement surgery, Thomas E. Powell, MD, and the team at Powell Orthopedics and Sports Medicine understand the critical importance of rehabilitation following surgery — and they also understand the unique demands and joys of the holiday season. In this post, learn simple tips that can help you support your joint health without missing out on holiday fun.
There’s no denying the holiday season can be busy, and it’s all too easy to put physical therapy sessions or other recovery activities on hold. But while the holidays are fleeting, your health and mobility are yours for the long term, and sticking to your recovery plan is critical, no matter how busy you may be.
Your recovery plan is designed to improve your strength, mobility, flexibility, and quality of life, as well as your overall wellness. Make time for your exercises every day, and don’t skip physical therapy appointments — even if you have to alter your holiday plans.
Try to schedule breaks throughout your day, especially days with lots of physical activity. Taking a nap or simply resting gives your muscles, tendons, and other tissues time to recover, and it relieves painful muscle strain and swelling, too. Rest time also provides a good opportunity to use an ice pack or heating pad for added benefits.
Joint replacement is major surgery, and it takes some time to recover. Instead of trying to attend every event and do all those holiday-related chores, be ready to delegate or simply say “no” to avoid burnout and reduce the risk of pain flare-ups.
Opt for low-impact activities, like watching a movie or playing board games with friends. Avoid any type of heavy lifting, and stay away from ladders.
If a holiday vacation or family visit is in your plans, be sure to pack an extra pillow or support to reduce strain on your joint during long periods of sitting. Don’t forget to pack your pain medication and plan on doing any at-home physical therapy exercises wherever you’re staying.
Recovering from any type of surgery takes an emotional toll — particularly joint surgery that can have an impact on your mobility. Scheduling some “me time” each day to listen to music, read, or meditate is a great way to keep stress under control and improve your ability to cope with the demands of your recovery plan.
Joint replacement recovery takes some time, but as long as you stick with your recovery plan and don’t overdo it, you can navigate your rehabilitation period successfully and with minimal disruption to your life and your wellness.
Remember to be kind to yourself and permit yourself to do less this holiday season, focusing instead on activities that support your recovery journey.
Most importantly, if you notice any increase in discomfort or any change in how your joint functions, don’t hesitate to call the office immediately. To learn more post-surgery rehabilitation tips, call 205-606-5232 or request an appointment online with Powell Orthopedics and Sports Medicine in Vestavia Hills, Alabama, today.
