Issue link: http://viewer.e-digitaledition.com/i/657700
Whether you received a brand-new joint or just a tune-up on the original, you need to recover the ability to move and use your joint. That's especially true if you were unable to use it fully before surgery. Limping and other adaptive behaviors to prevent pain may have changed the way your joint and the tendons and muscles around it function. THINK LOW IMPACT Most joint patients are back on their feet within a day or two after surgery. That's because moving is the best way to regain function. But that doesn't mean it's time to run a marathon. A walking program that starts with short distances then builds over time is considered safe for most joint surgery patients. Just be sure to wear supportive shoes and any braces or other gear your doctor recommends. Your joint is still healing and likely will be for several weeks. Choose exercises that build your range of motion without putting a lot of pressure on the surgical site. Swimming, biking and using an elliptical machine can be good options. HIT THE WEIGHTS Weight-bearing exercises are both safe and important to add to your fi tness routine as you recover, as long as your medical team clears them and you practice proper form. Consider trying yoga, which uses your own body weight to build strength during held poses. Talk with the instructor before class so he or she is aware of your recent surgery and limitations. That will help prompt him or her to include variations that may be better for you in the class. LISTEN TO THE EXPERTS Follow-up appointments, physical therapy and at-home exercises are all part of the recovery process. Don't ignore them or the advice and guidance your medical team has to share. If you're concerned about being active on your own, speak with your physical therapist or doctor. He or she will likely have suggestions for helping you reach your goals. Getting back in the swing of things after joint surgery is all about safely regaining range of motion and rebuilding strength so you can enjoy life again. K It Moving Are you considering joint surgery? Visit christushealth.org/christusnow to find an orthopedic specialist in your area. Do You Need a New Joint? Deciding to have joint replacement surgery is a choice that has the potential to vastly improve your life. There are many different factors to consider and discuss with your physician to determine if surgery is the right option for you. Ask yourself: How often are you in pain? Pain that is frequent or hard to control with therapy or medication may be a sign that it's time for joint surgery. How is joint pain affecting your life? If you have to change the way you get in and out of cars, take stairs, lift groceries, etc., because of how your joint feels, joint replacement surgery may help. Considering joint surgery? Call CHRISTUS St. Vincent Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine at (505) 424-0200 to schedule an evaluation. John Garcia, M.D., orthopaedic surgeon at CHRISTUS St. Vincent LiveWell | Spring 2016 11