While we’re all well aware of the need for rehabilitation and physiotherapy after surgery we don’t think about the preparations we need to make BEFORE surgery.

1. Ask questions –

Make sure you understand:

• what will happen at the hospital,
• the type of procedure you are having,
• how long you will be in hospital and who you will be seeing afterwards.
• the procedure is when you leave hospital and how you access pain medication, support and rehabilitation.

2. Prepare the house

When you come out of hospital you will most likely be on crutches.

Clear easy paths around furniture, pick up any rugs that you can trip on.

Make sure that stairs or bathrooms have handrails so that you can help yourself get around. Set up a comfy chair and footstool that you can get to easily.

3. Practice

Get crutches and PRACTISE using them.

Learn to go up and down the stairs properly, how to get in and out of the car and the bath or shower.

A fall can seriously damage the new joint and cause complications down the road, so make sure you are comfortable on your crutches so that you use them.

4. Put together a Critical Information sheet

• Names and phone numbers of family members or friends who can help you
• Contact details for your doctor.
• Any medical conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure or asthma
• Medications and dosages including vitamins and over the counter medication
• Allergies
• Dietary restrictions

5. Physical shape

The better shape you go into surgery, the better shape you will be coming out!

Speak to your surgeon about what exercises you can do.

If you can, cut down or quit smoking

Eat a nutritious, well balanced diet, you might even lose a bit of weight!

No alcohol at least 48 hours before surgery

6. Organise help

If you live alone make sure that you have someone to help you drive and do household chores for the first 3 – 6 weeks.

7. The night before

Pack your bag, don’t forget your phone charger!

Have a shower

Try and get a good night’s rest!

Dr Jyri Lepisto

Orthopaedic Consultant

Colegio No. 29/29/11425

MD, PhD, eMBA