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PATIENT RESOURCES
Welcome to our patient corner. Here, you can find valuable resources on what to expect before and after surgery, post-operative rehabilitation information, and answers to frequently asked questions (FAQs). Please feel free to reach out to us directly at (530) 395-0340 for more information. We are here to help make this an easy and positive experience for you.
RECOVERING FROM SURGERY
After a successful surgery, recovery is the next step on the path toward wellness. The recovery period can be a challenging time for many patients, since discomfort related to the surgery and temporary disability are expected. Here are a few strategies to help you prepare and manage your time during the recovery process.
Wound Management
Proper management of the surgical incision site is one of the keys to a successful recovery. These guidelines cover some of the basics of proper wound management after hip and knee surgery.
>> Most patients can shower with soap and water immediately following surgery.
>> Dressings can be removed approximately seven days after surgery.
>> Although you should NOT scrub your incision once the dressing has been removed, it is OK for the area to get wet.
>> Do not soak in a tub or swim until you have received clearance during a follow-up appointment.
>> A small amount of drainage from the wound is normal. If there is significant drainage, please contact the office.
>> The area around the incision can be cleansed with a gauze dampened with hydrogen peroxide. Afterward, place a dry dressing over the affected part of the incision and wrap with an ace-wrap.
Sleeping Post-Op
Sleep problems after surgery are expected due to factors such as discomfort, anesthesia side effects, and anxiety. The following strategies may help get your sleep back on track after surgery.
>> Avoid napping after surgery, and attempt to re-establish a sleep routine as soon as possible after returning home.
>> Avoid any stimulants, including coffee, in the afternoon and evening.
>> Try listening to calm music, meditating, or reading in the evenings before bed.
>> Contact our office if sleep disturbances after surgery cause significant problems in your life. This may include mood or behavior disturbances.
>> I recommend avoiding using medications to help you sleep.
>> Please consult your primary care physician if you feel that stronger sleep aids may be needed.
Returning to Work
The length of time that you should expect to be away from work following hip replacement or knee replacement depends on a number of variables, including the demands of your job and the specifics of your procedure. The guidelines below are rough estimations only.
>> Patients with desk jobs will often return to work two to four weeks following joint replacement surgery in Redding. Patients with active occupations may require a longer recovery period.
>> Common hurdles to returning to work include post-operative fatigue, swelling, discomfort, and transportation.
>> Please provide our office with advanced notice if any paperwork has been requested by your employer before you can return to work.
Driving After Surgery
It's not uncommon for patients to be both eager and anxious about driving after surgery, however post-operative medications and restrictions can make driving dangerous during the recovery period. Please consider the following before returning to the road.
>> Most patients require at least six weeks of recovery following hip replacement or knee replacement before they are ready to drive.
>> Do not drive while taking any narcotic pain medications. This is considered driving under the influence.
>> The amount of time that is necessary before safely operating a vehicle after surgery varies from patient to patient. Please use your best judgment in determining when you feel comfortable driving again post-operatively.
Preparing Your Home
Mobility is often a challenge in the days and weeks following orthopaedic surgery. Most patients will be less mobile after surgery. New medications can also make balance and coordination a challenge. However, preparing your home before the day of your surgery can decrease the risk of falls during the recovery period.
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Remove clutter throughout the home to decrease tripping hazards.
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Minimize slip risks in the bathroom by using non-skid mats.
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Consider alternative sleep arrangements after surgery, such as using a step stool or making up a sofa bed.
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Make care arrangements for any pets in the home.
Preparations for Surgery Day
Preparing for surgery beforehand can decrease anxiety and help avoid delays.
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Confirm your expected arrival time at the hospital and obtain driving directions, if necessary.
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Understand which medications should and should not be taken the night before surgery and the day of surgery.
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Do not shave around the surgical site.
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Take a shower to minimize the chance of post-operative infection.
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Pack personal items for your hospital stay, including comfortable walking shoes for post-operative therapy.
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Remove any valuables (including jewelry) and leave at home.
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Do not have anything to eat or drink after midnight the night before your surgery. (Medications can be taken with a sip of water).
What To Bring
Many patients have questions about what they should bring to the hospital on the day of surgery. Please bring the following:
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An updated list of all medication
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Your insurance card
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Your contacts, glasses, dentures, hearing aids, or a CPAP machine
Pursuing surgery is the first step toward better health. These simple tips should help you prepare for your surgery day and the recovery period.
PREPARING
FOR SURGERY
FREQUENTLY
ASKED QUESTIONS
Q. Is minimally invasive joint replacement surgery right for me?
A. Minimally invasive joint replacement surgery can help alleviate the pain and discomfort of arthritis. There are a number of surgical options for people suffering from arthritis in the hip or knee. An in-person consultation is the first step in determining whether a surgical or non-surgical approach will work best for your individual situation.
Q. How can I get more information or schedule an appointment?
A. Please contact Epic Orthopedics in Redding at (530) 395-0340 to request an appointment.
Q. Where is your office located?
A. I practice at Epic Orthopedics in Redding, California. Our office is centrally located at 662 Edith Avenue Redding, CA 96001.
Q. Do you take my insurance?
A. Contact Epic Orthopedics at (530) 395-0340 to discuss how we can work with your insurance policy to make joint replacement surgery possible for you.
Click here for the answers to more Frequently Asked Questions.