What Do You Need To Know Before Having Surgery?

What Do You Need To Know Before Having Surgery?

 Number one, there will be pain after surgery.  Yes, there are people that leave surgery feeling better than before but most cases have some pain. Surgery can involve cutting, stretching, and stitching tissues back together. This can cause the affected area to become inflamed. With inflammation come soreness, swelling, and pain. Most doctors will prescribe medication and ice to help control the pain. The important part is to follow the post-surgical instructions your surgeon provides you.  Number two, get yourself and your house ready. Can you get off the toilet and out of bed with one leg or tie your shoes and make a sandwich with one hand? These are scenarios to consider before surgery. You may have a brace, splint, or sling after surgery. This will limit your ability to complete your daily routine in the usual fashion. Prepare things before surgery to make the process easier. Make meals and freeze them so they just need to be reheated. Put things on the counter or lower surface to make reaching easier. You can even practice doing everything without using the arm or leg having surgery. Plan your transportation as well. You may be unable to drive initially so getting around will be difficult. Check your family and public transportation options before making appointments.  Number three, regaining your movement takes time but the sooner you start the faster it returns. Surgery can clean, repair, and/or replace an injured area. It doesn't fix the movements that the injured area performed. Depending upon the injury and how long you lived with it, your body may have learned ways to compensate this compensation will have made some areas stronger and others weaker. In order to have the most successful outcome from your surgery you need all the muscles working to their maximum ability. Sometimes this can be as simple as performing a couple exercises at home your surgeon provides. It may include going to physical or occupational therapy for a few weeks or months to regain maximum motion and strength.  Surgeries have come a long way and most patients have excellent outcomes returning to their normal routine with less pain and improved function. However, to get the most out of your procedure it's best to know a few things beforehand and to be prepared. At The Centers For Advanced Orthopaedics- MMI Division we care about you and your recovery. Our team of therapists and physicians work together to get you back to your life and the activities you love. If at any point you have questions or concerns we are here to help. Let us care for you. If you want to learn more about our surgical team of physicians or our specialized occupational and physical therapists call us at 301-694-8311 or visit our website at www.mmidocs.com.