Tips for Preparing for Orthopaedic Surgery
It can be a difficult experience to face any surgery, not just orthopaedic surgery. But you can actually prepare well in advance so that your anxiety can come down and you can also make preparations for how you will recuperate and rehabilitate after the surgery to ensure a successful outcome.
It is important to educate yourself about
The procedure you are undergoing which will include the recovery process, expected outcome and potential risks. You can visit mattbarnes.com.au to find more information on orthopaedic surgery. You have to ask your orthopaedic surgeon about any questions or concerns you have so that they can explain the procedure in detail and clarify any doubts. Having a good understanding of what is to happen will alleviate your anxiety and you will feel that you are more prepared as well. Your surgeon will educate you on the preoperative process and give you instructions on what to do on the days leading up to the date of surgery. There can be adjustments to your existing medication schedule, dietary restrictions or guidelines for tests or evaluations to be carried out before the surgery. You need to adhere to these instructions as this will increase the chances of a successful outcome and they will ensure that the risk of complications is minimised.
You will also need to prepare your home
So that you can be more comfortable once you come back from surgery. You need to create a comfortable and safe space to recover. Some of the modifications you may need to make to the house are installing grab bars or handrails, removing obstacles or any tripping hazards and rearranging the furniture to accommodate mobility aids. You can also have a recovery area set up where you can easily access essential items like water, medication, bathroom and entertainment. You can also arrange for assistance in the initial stages of your recovery. This can be transportation to and from the hospital and assistance with personal care and daily tasks. The recovery process can be easy when you have a support system in place and you can have family members, friends and caregivers for assistance. Before the date of surgery, it is a good idea to stock up on essential supplies that you will need in the recovery period. This can be over-the-counter pain relief, prescription medications, compression garments, ice packs and mobility aids. This way, you don’t have to make any last minute trips to the store or pharmacy and you will be able to relax.
An important part of post-operative care is pain management.
There are different options for this and you can discuss what is suited to your requirements with your orthopaedic surgeon. This can be a combination of physical therapy, medication and even alternative pain relief techniques like relaxation exercises, meditation and acupuncture. You have to be proactive when managing your pain so that you can have a more comfortable recovery process. You need to have proper nutrition and hydration so that you can heal after the surgery. You have to eat a balanced diet and stay hydrated throughout the day. You will need to avoid excessive consumption of caffeine or alcohol.