Orthopedic surgeries can help restore mobility and reduce pain for many people. Knowing what to expect during recovery is important. Let’s look at some common orthopedic procedures and their typical recovery times.

Total Knee Replacement

Total knee replacement is a common orthopedic surgery. Experienced surgeons perform this procedure to help with severe knee pain and improve knee function. They replace damaged parts of the knee joint with artificial parts made of metal and plastic.

Recovery from a total knee replacement usually takes about 12 weeks. Here’s what you might expect:

• Day 1: Start walking with a walker or crutches
• Week 3: Most people can walk without help
• Weeks 4-6: Return to driving and work
• Weeks 7-11: Continue physical therapy, start easy activities
• Week 12: Return to more active activities (if your surgeon says it’s okay)

Remember, everyone’s recovery is different. Some people might heal faster, while others may need more time. Factors like age, overall health, and following doctor’s instructions can affect recovery speed.

Hip Replacement Surgery

Hip replacement surgery can help people with severe hip pain. In this surgery, doctors remove damaged parts of the hip joint and replace them with artificial parts. Recovery usually takes 3-6 months.

Here’s what you might expect after hip replacement:

• Week 1-2: Walk with a walker or crutches, start physical therapy
• Week 3-4: Start using a cane or walking without help
• Week 6-8: Return to light activities and driving
• Month 3-6: Slowly return to normal activities

Our approach to medical care ensures personalized attention throughout your recovery. We focus on early mobility and customized physical therapy to support healing.

Arthroscopic Knee Surgery

Arthroscopic knee surgery is a less invasive procedure used to diagnose and treat knee problems. Doctors make small cuts and use a tiny camera to guide them. Recovery is often quicker because it’s less invasive.

Typical recovery timeline for arthroscopic knee surgery:

• Day 1: Go home the same day
• Week 1: Return to office work
• Weeks 1-4: Slowly increase activities
• Months 1-2: Return to full active lifestyle

Our clear pricing helps you focus on recovery without surprise medical bills.

Shoulder Surgery

Shoulder surgeries, such as rotator cuff repair or shoulder replacement, usually take 3-6 months for full recovery. The timeline can vary based on the specific surgery and individual factors. Rotator cuff repairs involve reattaching torn tendons to the upper arm bone, while shoulder replacements involve replacing damaged joint surfaces with artificial parts.

General recovery stages for shoulder surgery:

• Weeks 1-6: Wear a sling, start gentle exercises
• Weeks 6-12: Increase range of motion exercises
• Months 3-6: Strengthen shoulder muscles, return to normal activities

Spinal Surgery

Spinal surgeries, like discectomy or spinal fusion, have variable recovery times. Some patients may recover in as little as 4 weeks, while others might need 6 months or more. Discectomy involves removing part of a herniated disc to relieve nerve pressure, while spinal fusion joins two or more vertebrae to stabilize the spine.

Factors affecting spinal surgery recovery:

• Type of surgery performed
• Number of vertebrae involved
• Patient’s overall health and age
• Following post-operative instructions

Factors Affecting Recovery Time

Several factors can influence how quickly you recover from orthopedic surgery:

• Age and overall health
• Physical condition before surgery
• Following doctor’s instructions after surgery
• Participating in physical therapy
• Eating well and staying hydrated
• Whether you smoke (non-smokers usually heal faster)
• Having chronic conditions (like diabetes)

Understanding these factors can help you know what to expect during recovery. Our team will work with you to support these factors for optimal healing.

Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) Protocols

We use Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) protocols to improve outcomes and speed up recovery. ERAS protocols focus on counseling before surgery, optimizing nutrition, standardizing anesthesia and pain management, and encouraging early movement.

Benefits of ERAS protocols:

• Shorter hospital stays
• Fewer complications after surgery
• Less pain after surgery
• Faster return to normal activities
• Improved patient satisfaction
• Lower healthcare costs

Preparing for Orthopedic Surgery

Good preparation can enhance your recovery experience. Here are some steps to take before your surgery:

• Complete all pre-operative assessments
• Improve your health (quit smoking, control blood sugar, etc.)
• Arrange for care and transportation with a companion after surgery
• Prepare your home for recovery (remove things you might trip over, set up a recovery area)
• Follow fasting guidelines before surgery
• Attend education sessions before surgery
• Discuss pain management with your surgeon
• Plan for time off work and arrange help with daily activities

Conclusion: Patience and Following Instructions in Recovery

Recovering from orthopedic surgery takes time and effort. While the timelines we’ve provided are general guidelines, everyone’s recovery is unique. It’s crucial to follow your surgeon’s recommendations and attend all follow-up appointments. Regular communication with your healthcare team can help address any concerns and ensure your recovery stays on track.

At Surgery Center of Oklahoma, we’re committed to providing expert care throughout your surgical journey. Our team of specialists is here to support you every step of the way, from preparation before surgery to rehabilitation after surgery. We use advanced techniques and technologies to optimize your surgical outcomes and recovery.

Remember, a successful recovery depends on your active participation in the process. Stay patient, follow your care plan, and don’t hesitate to reach out to your healthcare providers with any concerns. With the right care and dedication, you’ll be on your way to improved mobility and quality of life. Our goal is to help you return to your daily activities as safely and quickly as possible.