Guest Blog: Dos & Don’ts After Hip & Knee Replacement

The following is a guest blog by C. Brian Blackwood, MD - fellowship-trained joint replacement Surgeon at BoulderCentre for Orthopedics & Spine

Mastering Your Recovery: Dos & Don’ts After Hip & Knee Replacement

After having a hip or knee replacement, you may be able to return to the lifestyle you had before surgery, but this can take some time. By putting these dos and don’ts into practice, you can look forward to a better recovery experience following a hip or knee replacement.

Dos

• Before your surgery, plan ahead. Recruit a family member or friend to be with you during the first couple of days and nights, and plan out activities you can do as you rest and recover.

• You should try to use your new joint as much as possible to help ease some of the stiffness you may experience.

• Stay ahead of the pain by sticking to your medication schedule. Consistency is key, especially when it comes to your recovery.

Don’ts

• As you start to use your new joint, remain aware of your limitations and ask your doctor or physical therapy team if you are unsure.

• Avoid putting unnecessary pressure on your joint when you sleep or lay down.

• If you need to pick up an item, use an assistive device or have a family member or friend help you.

After joint replacement surgery, the most important tip is to listen to and follow the instructions from your doctor and physical therapy team. They will have the best tips and tricks to follow so you can return to your favorite activities.

To learn more about hip and knee replacement or other options for chronic joint pain, visit https://www.bch.org/our-services/orthopedics/hip-knee-replacement/.

About the Guest Blogger 

Fellowship-trained hip and knee replacement surgeon C. Brian Blackwood, MD - who performs surgeries at BCH’s Foothills Hospital - recently completed his 3,000th joint replacement using Mako Robotic-Arm Assisted Technology. This incredible milestone makes Dr. Blackwood the top MAKO surgeon in Colorado and in the top 5% in the country.

In January 2020, Dr. Blackwood performed Colorado’s first Mako robotic joint replacement (total knee replacement) in an outpatient setting. Approximately 800 hip and knee surgeries are performed every year at BCH’s Foothills Hospital.