7 Tips to Help You Prepare for Hip or Knee Replacement Surgery

Dr. Nathan Cafferky is a board-certified orthopaedic surgeon specializing in total joint replacement at The Steadman Clinic. Known for his expertise and compassionate care, he is dedicated to helping his patients regain their mobility and improve their quality of life.

If you are considering having hip or knee replacement surgery — or have one scheduled — you may be feeling a mix of emotions: excited at the prospect of improved mobility and reduced pain, but also anxious or overwhelmed. However, with the right support and preparation, you can minimize some of the associated stress and set yourself up for a successful surgery and recovery process.

Here are seven tips to help you prepare for joint replacement surgery:

1. Make a List of Questions for Your Surgeon. Dr. Cafferky and his team will provide you with specific instructions on preparing for your surgery. This will include information about what the procedure will entail, potential risks or complications, and expected recovery time. Still, it's natural to have many more questions. Make a list of these and bring them to your pre-surgery appointments to get the answers you need to feel confident and informed. 

2. Arrange for Transportation and Post-Surgery Care. You will need someone to drive you home after your surgery and to your physical therapy and follow-up appointments. Dr. Cafferky will let you know when you can resume driving, but it's generally between three to six weeks post-operation. You may also need someone to help you with everyday tasks, like cooking, dressing, cleaning, or laundry, during the first few weeks of your recovery.

3. Make Sure You Have Everything You Need. Before your surgery, ensure you have all the necessary equipment for recovery, such as crutches or a walker, prescribed medications, over-the-counter medication, ice machine or ice packs, and bandages. You'll also want to stock up on groceries, including non-perishable, easy-to-prepare foods. You can also cook and freeze meals in advance, giving you a range of healthy, convenient options to choose from when mealtime rolls around.

4. Get Your Home Ready. Your mobility will be impacted during the first few weeks after your surgery, so it's important to make your home as accessible and comfortable as possible. 

Consider getting helpful adaptive tools such as a sock donner (1), a long-handled shoe horn (2), a reacher (3), and a long-handled sponge (4).

• Rearrange your furniture so that you have a direct path

• Remove any clutter from the floor 

• Modify your bathroom to include a shower chair, handrails, or raised toilet seat 

• Ensure regularly-used items are within easy reach (phone, lamps, TV controls, medications, etc.)

• Make sure you have comfortable clothing and non-slip shoes or slippers

• Update your Netflix queue or get some new books or a puzzle to fill some of your time as you recover

5. Obtain Medical Clearances if Needed. Before surgery, Team Cafferky will review your medical history and may require you to obtain medical clearance from other healthcare providers, such as your primary care doctor, dentist, or specialists in cardiology, urology, or pulmonology. This is to ensure that you are in good health and minimize the risk of complications during surgery.

6. Attend Pre-Op Physical Therapy or Complete Exercises on Your Own. Dr. Cafferky may recommend that you undergo physical therapy before surgery to strengthen your muscles, improve your mobility, and improve your surgical outcomes. The stronger you are going into surgery, the stronger you'll be after surgery and throughout your rehabilitation process.

7. Take Care of Yourself. Leading up to your surgery, taking care of yourself physically and mentally is essential. Eat a healthy diet, quit smoking if you do, and stick with your exercise program. And remember that you are not alone in this journey — Dr. Cafferky and his team will be there to help you throughout the entire process. 

Joint replacement surgery can be life-changing, offering relief from chronic hip and knee pain and improving mobility. Proper preparation before the procedure can increase the chances of a successful recovery.

Choose the Best Total Knee and Hip Replacement Surgeon in Vail, Colorado

Choosing a joint replacement surgeon you trust is crucial when deciding to undergo surgery. Dr. Cafferky and his highly-respected team of orthopaedic specialists are renowned for their expertise and compassionate care. From the initial consultation to your one-year follow-up, they will be with you every step of the way to support and guide you through the process.

Contact Team Cafferky today if you are considering a hip or knee replacement or have questions regarding your upcoming surgery. Call (970) 476-1100 or submit an appointment request using our online form.