Are you having upper extremity surgery like shoulder surgery? You want to do everything you can to maximize your healing process. How you handle your postoperative care at home during the recovery period impacts your recovery.
Your orthopedic doctor will instruct you about wound care, pain management, and physical therapy. In this blog, we will dive deeper into some general guidelines that can aid your recovery at home.
Create a Comfortable Home Environment
Before your surgery, set up a clean and comfortable recovery space at home. This should include easy access to a bathroom, as well as items such as a reclining chair, pillows, and blankets to support your operated hand or shoulder. Keep your cell phone, laptop, TV remote, glasses, and water bottle on a chairside table within easy reach.
Wound Care
Proper wound care prevents infection, lessens pain and swelling, and promotes healing. Your orthopedic doctor will provide specific instructions for postoperative care at home for your incision site. Examples include changing bandages, cleaning the operated area, and keeping it dry.
Follow these instructions closely, and report any signs of infection, worsening pain, or other complications to your doctor immediately. These may include redness, swelling, or drainage from the incision site. Know how to contact your orthopedic provider, and if you do talk with them, communicate your concerns clearly.
Pain Management
Pain management is another important aspect of postoperative care at home. Your orthopedic doctor will likely prescribe medication to help control your pain during the initial healing period. Take prescribed medication only as directed; never increase doses or switch medications without consulting with your orthopedic surgeon.
Physical Therapy
A detailed and customized program of physical therapy serves several important functions in the postoperative period. It rebuilds strength, mobility, flexibility, and function in the affected area.
A physical therapist will work with you to develop a plan that considers your specific condition and needs. You will work on the plan in the physical therapy clinic as well as at home.
Your therapist will also provide education on proper body mechanics and techniques for getting in and out of bed or chairs, walking safely with assistive devices (if necessary), and performing daily tasks without straining the affected area.
Follow through with your physical therapy program as prescribed by your doctor. Skipping or avoiding sessions can hinder your recovery.
Go to Your Follow-up Appointments
Your orthopedic surgeon may have restricted your driving for a short or even extended period of time. Have a trusted friend or relative take you to your postoperative check-ups, ensuring you have safe and reliable transportation.
At each visit, your surgeon will assess your progress and make any necessary adjustments to your therapy program. It is important to attend these appointments and communicate any concerns or changes you may be experiencing.
Stay Active
While it is important to follow through with your physical therapy program, try not to overdo it. Your body needs time to heal. If certain exercises or activities cause pain or discomfort, talk to your therapist about modifying them.
Plus, if your orthopedic surgeon OKs it, get light exercise at home or outside if possible. Simple walking can help with the healing process and improve your mental well-being.
Dietary Considerations
Eating a well-balanced diet promotes healing after you have undergone surgery on your upper extremities. So, go shopping ahead of your procedure and stock up on:
- Fruits, vegetables, and other nutrient-dense and fiber-rich foods.
- Low-fat proteins, such as chicken and fish.
- Low-fat dairy, such as yogurt.
- Vitamins and supplements as recommended by your orthopedic physician.
Regarding vitamins and supplements, many of our orthopedic surgery patients benefit from taking vitamin C and calcium. They promote healing and bone strength. Check with your surgical team to understand what nutrients are best suited to your procedure, age, and overall health history.
Additionally, drink plenty of water throughout the day to keep your body hydrated. Avoid stimulants, such as caffeine, and alcohol which can thin the blood and slow healing.
Check with your surgical team for recommendations on nutrients suited to your procedure, age, and overall health history.
Excellent Outcomes for Upper Extremity and Shoulder Surgery in Lutherville, MD
At Greater Chesapeake Hand to Shoulder, we guide our patients through their surgical journeys. From initial consultation with one of our eight board-certified orthopedic specialists to the procedure itself and healing at home, our team is dedicated to ensuring excellent outcomes for shoulder and upper extremity surgeries.
Call us today to learn more about successful healing strategies at (410) 296-6232. You also may arrange a visit by filling in our request form here. We are here to help you have a smooth, successful recovery.
