DOCTOK

Common Mistakes Most People Make After Joint Replacement and How to Avoid Them

Joint replacement surgery may change lives and provide a second opportunity at living without pain and stiffness. Whether it is a knee, a hip, or a shoulder, it helps one move better, live better, and get back to doing what they love to do.

But the work is not when they come out of the hospital. Actually, that is when the real journey starts. Hundreds of patients are not aware of some minor mistakes that they commit in the process of recovery, which may slow down the healing process or even the success of the implant.

These are some of the most frequent traps – and the ways of avoiding them to get a smoother, stronger recovery.

1-Missing physiotherapy

Maybe the greatest error made after joint replacement is to believe that rest is recovery.

Although rest is important, excessive amounts of it may cause stiffness, weakness of muscles, and lack of mobility.

Physiotherapy sessions are not optional because they are the link between surgery and complete functionality. Missing exercises or exercising inconsistently can delay recovery and exacerbate chronic pain.

2-Excessive physical exercise 

Conversely, other patients are too excited to resume their normal lives and overwork themselves. Walking long distances, lifting heavy objects can damage the new joint and may cause swelling, pain, or even serious harm to the new joint before the body is ready to handle it.

It is therefore important that a progression plan developed by the therapist is followed.

3-Ignoring pain or swelling

A small amount of joint pain following exercise is normal, but chronic pain in the joint, along with swelling, may indicate overuse or infection. When these symptoms are overlooked, complications get aggravated.

The key is to listen to the body. Pain is the body telling the person to slow down.

4-Failure to make adjustments in home safety

Most individuals do not appreciate the importance of preparing their home for recovery. A fall is easily caused by loose rugs, low chairs, and littered areas – a significant risk factor following joint replacement.

It is important to:

• Keep walkways clear.
• Provide grab bars or handrails at the points of requirement.
• Sit on appropriate chairs and toilets.

5-Failure to have proper posture or movement

The incorrect way of sitting, standing, or walking causes strain to the new joint. Even minor activities such as crossing legs when one has been given a hip replacement or squatting down too much when one has undergone knee surgery may be harmful.

It is essential to have proper movement techniques taught by a physiotherapist and worked on regularly. Awareness is protection.

6-Negligence of nutrition and hydration

Healing does not only involve physical activity but also food. Failure to take a nutritious diet may delay the repair of tissues and bone mass.

Adding protein-rich foods, calcium, vitamin D, and antioxidants, and drinking sufficient water can significantly aid in circulation and optimum recovery.

7- Not maintaining weight

A lot of patients get better in the post-surgical period, and they adopt old eating habits without compensating for them with physical activity. Additional body weight may cause unwarranted strain on the replaced joint and reduce the life of implants.

8-Failure to follow up with the physician

After the pain has gone, the patients tend to think that they are cured and miss follow-up sessions. However, frequent examinations will enable the physician to examine the functioning of the joints, positioning, and implant stability.

9-Emotional neglect 

The healing process is not only physical, it is emotional, too. Progress may also be slowed due to frustration, anxiety, or fear of movement, which will influence motivation.

It is recommended to remain in touch with the care team, support groups, and practice relaxation. Recovery can be hastened by a positive mind.

The right way forward

Joint replacement provides a solution for pain and immobility. But the care one takes after the replacement is vital and is instrumental in the recovery process. It is the difference between recovery and complete healing.

The way forward is simple. To be mindful of the above-mentioned mistakes and be aware that the new joint may be provided by surgery, but care after surgery is what helps one to successfully live with it.