Rehabilitation And Recovery After Orthopaedic Surgery

Orthopaedic surgery is a specialised field of medicine that deals with musculoskeletal injuries and conditions, including bones, joints, muscles, tendons, and ligaments. Orthopaedic surgeons are skilled in various surgical techniques, ranging from traditional open surgery to minimally invasive procedures such as arthroscopy.

The recovery timeline after orthopaedic surgery is unique to each patient and is influenced by factors such as the type of surgery and the patient's overall health. While recovery can vary widely, it typically takes several weeks to several months.

Recovery And Rehabilitation After Orthopaedic Surgery 

Recovery and rehabilitation typically involve different factors working together to minimise discomfort and promote healing after surgery. 

Pain Management

You will likely experience pain and discomfort after orthopaedic surgery as the body begins to heal and recover. Pain management is an essential part of the recovery process, and it can help you feel more comfortable and improve your overall well-being. Pain is a subjective experience, so it is important to work closely with your healthcare team to find the most effective pain management methods to help during your recovery period.

Pain medication can range from over-the-counter pain relievers to prescription painkillers. Your doctor will determine the use and dosage of medication.

Ice therapy is another common pain relief method. It involves the application of ice or a cold pack to the affected area to reduce inflammation and alleviate pain. Using a compression device or elevating the affected limb may help to reduce swelling and promote healing. 

Physical therapy and rehabilitation exercises can help with pain management by improving the range of motion of the affected limb, strengthening muscles, and reducing stiffness. 

Early Mobilisation

After orthopaedic surgery, you will be encouraged to move and walk as soon as possible. This may sound counterintuitive, but it is an important step in the recovery process.

Movement is crucial to prevent blood clots from forming in the legs, which can be a serious complication following surgery. Moving around and walking can help stimulate blood flow and prevent the formation of these clots. 

In addition, beginning to move and walk as soon as possible can help prevent stiffness in the affected area. When we don't move a certain area for an extended period of time, the muscles and joints can become stiff and difficult to move.

By moving as soon as possible, you can help prevent stiffness and regain your mobility more quickly. It is important to follow the specific instructions and precautions your healthcare provider or physical therapist gives, as too much activity too soon can hinder the healing process.

Physical Therapy

The goal of physical therapy is to assist you in regaining your strength, mobility, and function. Physical therapists work with you to develop a personalised rehabilitation plan tailored to your needs and goals. The therapy plan may include a variety of exercises, such as stretching, range of motion, and resistance training. 

You might also receive manual therapy techniques, such as massage or joint mobilisation, to reduce pain and improve your range of motion. Physical therapists also provide education on proper body mechanics and posture to prevent future injuries and optimise recovery. You may be given exercises at home to complement your physical therapy sessions.

Follow-Up Appointments

You will need to attend follow-up appointments with your surgeon after orthopaedic surgery. These appointments are important for monitoring your progress and ensuring that you are healing properly. The surgeon may need to adjust your treatment plan based on your recovery progress.

During these appointments, the surgeon will likely examine the surgical site, assess your range of motion, and ask about any pain or discomfort you are experiencing. The surgeon may also order additional imaging tests, such as X-rays or MRI scans, to get a more detailed view of the surgical area.

Lifestyle Changes

Making lifestyle changes is an important aspect of recovering from orthopaedic surgery. Some common changes include maintaining a healthy weight, quitting smoking, or improving your diet. These changes can promote healing and prevent future injuries. 

You might need to reorganise your living space to accommodate your limited range of movement and incorporate assistive devices or convenience services, such as grocery delivery, to help with daily activities. 

The Use Of Assistive Devices

Assistive devices can provide support and stability during recovery, allowing you to move around with less pain and discomfort. They can also help prevent falls and further injuries while the affected limb is healing and help perform exercises recommended by the physical therapist during rehabilitation. 

There are many different assistive devices for different types of patient needs.

• Crutches take the weight off the affected limb and improve mobility while the limb heals. 
• Canes assist with balance and can be helpful for those who have difficulty walking due to hip or knee surgery.
• Walkers provide stability and support for individuals who need more assistance with walking.
• Knee scooters allow individuals to keep their injured foot or ankle elevated while still moving around.
• Wheelchairs are used for those who have had lower limb surgery and cannot bear weight on their legs.
• Reachers are used to grab objects that are out of reach without the need to bend or stretch, which can be helpful for those with limited mobility.
• Resistance bands may be used to help with shoulder or knee strengthening exercises.
• Balance boards may be recommended for balance and stability exercises.

Gradual Return To Activities

Your return to daily activities should be gradual, and you may need to modify your work or exercise routine to accommodate your healing process. It's important to listen to your body's signals and not push past discomfort or pain. You should promptly consult your doctor if any symptoms arise, such as swelling, pain, or limited range of motion. Recovery requires patience and consistent effort to optimise healing.

Steps To Recovering From Orthopaedic Surgery

Recovery and rehabilitation after orthopaedic surgery involve various interconnected factors, working together to promote healing and minimise discomfort. Pain management, early mobilisation, physical therapy, follow-up appointments, lifestyle changes, and assistive devices are all essential components of a successful recovery. It is important to work closely with your healthcare team and follow their instructions to optimise the healing process and achieve the best possible outcome. With patience and dedication, it is possible to recover from orthopaedic surgery and regain strength, mobility, and function.