It's all about the preparation - Before total hip & total knee replacements

Before you set a surgery date, think about how an operation will affect your life. For at least a few weeks after joint replacement surgery, things can be stressful. Preparing early will help the surgical process go more smoothly and  speed your recovery. Getting your family and friends involved is highly recommended, as you will benefit from their help in the weeks after surgery.  Almost all patients are discharged home, unless there are unexpected complications. Most patients go home the next day. Some patients may even be discharged home the same day. Nowadays, it is extremely rare for patients to be transferred to in-patient rehab facilities following this surgery.

Get specific information from your surgeon. 

How long is the surgery? --"Typically, 1 hour for knee replacement and 1.5 hours for hip."

Can I have the surgery as an out-patient? --"This is a good option for some."

What type of anesthesia will I need?--"Spinal anesthesia is used, most of the time."

What kind of rehab will I get?--"Out-patient physiotherapy once a week."

How long will I be off work?

Write down your questions before your visit, and write down the answers. Better yet, have a trusted friend or family member come to your appointment to take notes.

If possible, try to get into better shape before your surgery. You'll recover more quickly if you are physically fit. Ask your doctor or physiotherapist about which exercises you should do before your operation. Working to strengthen your arms and upper body, for example, will make getting around on crutches or using a walker easier, post-operatively. Cardiovascular activities such as swimming or riding exercise bicycles will build your stamina and improve your mobility. If you are heavier set, aim to lose some weight to lighten the stress on your knees and hips. 

A balanced diet and nutrition-counselling can help improve your overall health prior to surgery.

If you vape, smoke cigarettes or other tobacco products, please stop.  Or, at least, cut down. Smoking slows your recovery and makes your wounds take longer to heal. It also raises your chance of getting complications and/or infections during and after your surgery.

Before your operation, learn the exercises that you are expected to do after your surgery. Try them out. Practising them, now,  will help tone your muscles and make them  easier to do later. If you will be needing crutches or a walker, test out those, too.

You will be home within 1 - 2 days after surgery. Get your home ready, beforehand.  Move things to make getting around easier and safer for when you are less mobile. Clear hallways to accommodate crutches or a walker. Remove obstacles and hazardous items, like throw rugs, that may cause a fall.  You may need to rent equipment or set up a temporary bedroom on the first floor. Consider installing safety rails or grab-bars in the bathroom. And, keep everything you need, from your phone to medications, within easy reach. 

Other equipment to consider include: bath chair, non-slip bathmat, long-handled sponge, long-handled shoe horn, reacher, raised toilet seat, and commode. 

Ensure your refrigerator and pantry are well-stocked and freeze extra meals for your return, as you will not be grocery shopping for a couple of weeks after surgery. 

Line ups help. You are going to need it while you recover. If you live on your own, recruit a relative or close friend to help out for a while. Ask neighbours to take out the garbage or bring in the mail.