Overview
A little preparation before joint replacement surgery goes a long way. Seven practical tips to make your hospital stay smoother and your transition home easier.
Joint replacement surgery is a planned event — which means you have a rare advantage in healthcare: time to prepare. Patients who prepare well tend to report a smoother hospital experience and an easier transition home.
First, get strong beforehand: 'prehabilitation' exercises that build leg and arm strength make post-surgical mobility easier. Second, attend any pre-surgical education class your hospital offers; knowing what each day will look like reduces anxiety. Third, arrange your ride home and your first two weeks of help in advance.
Fourth, pack smart: loose comfortable clothing, slip-on shoes with backs, your medication list, phone charger, and CPAP machine if you use one. Fifth, plan your medications with your surgical team — some blood thinners and supplements must be paused before surgery, and only your prescribing clinicians should direct those changes.
Sixth, prepare your body per your team's instructions, which may include antiseptic washes and dental clearance to reduce infection risk. Seventh, set realistic expectations: some pain and fatigue are normal, progress is rarely linear, and knowing that upfront makes the hard days easier to navigate.
Key Takeaways
- Prehabilitation strength work pays off after surgery
- Arrange transport and home help before your surgery date
- Medication changes should only be directed by your clinical team
- Realistic expectations make recovery's hard days easier