Things Not to Do When Recovering From Surgery

Things Not to Do When Recovering From Surgery

Most people understand not to take up hang gliding, participate in motocross, or perform full-contact kickboxing after hip replacement surgery. However, many activities they would normally take for granted can hinder the recovery process. Here is a list of things to avoid in order to speed recovery and maintain the integrity of the hip replacement.

Do Not Take Pain Management Lightly

Although many patients like to use as much pain medication that they can get their hands on, others are leery of taking too many pills, particularly those that are addictive. They may admire the television character Dr. Gregory House, but they do not want to become Vicodin addicts.

Although many patients undergo hip replacement surgery to cure chronic pain, they pay for the relief with intense short-term pain during recovery. Most doctors will prescribe a powerful opioid to help patients deal with the pain. These drugs are a combination of codeine and hydrocodone, and are often supported by complimentary pain relievers in the same pill, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen. One example is Vicoprofen, which combines ibuprofen and hydrocodone. Tylenol With Codeine No. 4 is a combination of acetaminophen and codeine. Many patients are already taking these drugs before surgery, in order to deal with arthritis or other pain. During this time, they may have built an immunity to the drug. Patients should share their complete prescription and non-prescription pill list with their physicians prior to surgery, to allow the doctor to create an effective pain management plan.

Avoid Taking Your Emotional Health for Granted

Regardless of their mental toughness, many patients consider the hip replacement recovery period as one of the most grueling experiences of their lives. Men, especially, want to “tough it out”, and remain stoic in the face of pain. However, the stress of constant pain coupled with the physical limitations of their recovering body can lead to anxiety and depression.

Many deal with their emotional health by getting a firm understanding of the post-operative limitations before they enter surgery. They work to develop patience and a positive mental attitude. They make sure to spend time with friends and loved ones in order to maintain their emotional health.

Do Not Skip Therapy

Physical and occupational therapy is one of the most important parts of recovery, and yet, patients often avoid therapy because of the additional pain and discomfort. In doing so, they risk a longer recovery period and increase their risk of blood clots.

The key to successful therapy is balance. Patients must follow the plan religiously, but at the same time, avoid overexertion or other unwise activities. Several short exercise sessions of 5-15 minutes throughout each day will increase blood flow, stretch the tendons, and strengthen the muscles.

If a patient is not working with a physical therapist, he or she should enlist an exercise buddy to provide encouragement and support.

Avoid High Impact Activities

Just as someone would not drive their new Lamborghini over potholes or other rough terrain, they must not overextend their new hip joints either. Good activities for patients include walking, biking, and swimming. Patients must avoid high impact activities such as downhill skiing, running, contact sports, or other activities that could wear or dislocate the replacement joint. As always, patients should keep in close contact with their doctors and therapists to design their post-op lifestyle.