F
e a t u r e
How to prepare
for a new joint
Having a joint replaced? Here
are some suggestions from the
American Academy of Orthopae-
dic Surgeons for how best to
prepare for your surgery:
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Understand the procedure. Ask
about the type of implant you’ll
receive, how the surgery will be
performed, if you should donate
your own blood before surgery
and what you need to know
about recovery. The more you
know, the better you can face
challenges.
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Gather personal and medical
information. That might include
pulling together your insurance
information and legal documents,
such as a living will or power
of attorney, and writing a list of
your medications, supplements,
allergies, dietary restrictions and
health problems.
■
■
Get in shape. Presurgery
exercises can help strengthen
muscles that you’ll need for using
crutches or a walker or support-
ing your new joint.
■
■
Quit smoking. Or at the very
least, cut back. Tobacco affects
blood fow and healing.
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■
Ask for help. You may need
someone to take you home and
stay with you for a time after
surgery.
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■
Stock your kitchen with ready-
made or freeze-ahead meals for
the week after surgery.
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■
Apply for a temporary disabled
parking permit.
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■
Remove loose rugs and other
potential hazards from your
home.
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■
Set up a recovery center with
necessities, such as remote con-
trols, toiletries, clothing, a waste-
basket, tissues and medicines, in
easy reach.
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In the bathroom, install a
raised toilet seat, grab bars and
a sturdy shower chair.
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■
Shop for other aids you may
need, such as a long-handled
shoehorn and a tool that can help
you grab things without bending
over.
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■
Pack a hospital bag. Slippers,
reading glasses, a knee-length
robe or gown, something to read,
a loose-ftting sweatsuit, and
comfortable shoes may be help-
ful. Leave credit cards, cash and
jewelry at home.
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H E A L T H B E A T