How to Prepare for Hip Replacement Surgery

After undergoing an orthopedic evaluation, your doctor may discuss the option of  hip replacement. This surgical procedure is becoming a popular choice, as it offers relief from pain, improved mobility and significantly improved quality of life – but how should you prepare for it? Here’s some advice from short term rehabilitation providers from our assisted living community in Gloucester County.

• Ask questions about your procedure: Your surgeon is the best source for information on what happens during your hip replacement, what joint is best for you and what you can expect as you recover. It’s a good idea to browse reputable websites like the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons (AAOS) or the American Association of Hip and Knee Surgeons (AAHKS) for information and to help get ideas for questions to ask your doctors.
• Get in shape: The healthier, fitter and stronger you are before your surgery, the easier your recovery is likely to be. Getting down to a healthy weight by eating right and exercising (be sure to ask your doctor what exercises will be safest and most comfortable for you) is always a good idea. Building up your upper body strength will also be a big help to you, as it will make it easier to move around on crutches or a walker during your recovery.
• Meet your physical therapist: Not only will your physical therapist be able to help you with exercises for your general health, they can also take you through the exercises you’ll need to do to aid your recovery. Learning them before your surgery will make them easier to do post-surgery.
• Speak to your insurance provider: Keeping in close communication with your insurance provider  will help ensure that you are properly covered for the surgery. They will also help you understand what your post-surgical coverage or benefits can provide.
• Plan your recovery: While some patients do return home after surgery and recover with the help of friends and family, many patients find that it is easier and more beneficial to receive professional care. Short term rehabilitation providers can offer you  accommodations for your recovery that are  suited to your needs, as well as qualified therapists, nursing, meals and other assistance or support.

Short term rehabilitation services from our assisted living community in New Jersey 

United Methodist Communities at Pitman is an assisted living community in Gloucester County, NJ, offering high quality short term rehabilitation services to seniors. As part of the United Methodist Communities network, we offer these services in addition to assisted living , hospice care, respite care and memory support services.

To find out more about our short term rehab services or assisted living community, please contact us today or schedule a personal tour.