You may be wondering how long you’ll need to be in the hospital after joint replacement. Every individual is different, and insurance coverage will differ as well. Generally speaking, a total of 4 days (including the day of the surgery) is typical. It is important to note that each patient experience differs and you will be discharged when you have achieved the goals outlined by your orthopaedic surgeon.
On the first day after your surgery, you may get out of bed and begin physical and occupational therapy, typically several brief sessions a day. These are first steps on your way to getting back into the routines of your life!
During your hospital stay, your orthopaedic surgeon works closely with nurses, physical therapists, and other healthcare professionals to ensure the success of your surgery and rehabilitation. Usually a case manager is assigned to work with you as you move through your rehabilitation routines. As the days progress, you should become more independent using two crutches or a walker.
If you need to work with a physical therapist after your joint replacement, the therapist may begin an exercise program to be performed in bed and in the therapy department. The physical therapist will work with you to help you:
- Regain muscle strength
- Increase range of motion
The physical therapist (or nurses) will also show you:
- How to get out of bed
- How to use the bathroom
- How to get dressed
Discharge from the hospital will depend, to some extent, on your progress in physical therapy. The physical therapist will likely give you a list of activities, exercises, and “do’s and don’ts” when you leave the hospital, and you may also have the assistance of an occupational therapist or nurse to help with special needs.
When you’re ready for discharge, your surgeon will determine whether you can best continue to recover at home (the usual procedure) or in a facility where you can receive specialized rehabilitation help. If you do go to another facility, the goal will be to return you to your home, able to move about with a safe level of independence, within 3 to 5 days.
You shouldn’t be surprised if you feel a little shaky and uncertain for the first day or two after you’re discharged. However, you should soon get a routine going and gain confidence in your new joint — the start of a new life with less pain. (As with many surgeries, pain medication may be prescribed while you are healing.)
You may need a walker and/or crutches for about 6 weeks, then use a cane for another 6 weeks or so. You’ll be in touch with your doctor or orthopaedic surgeon as well as your case manager, so you’ll have plenty of opportunities to ask questions or discuss concerns as well as to report your progress.
Be aware that there are some things you should not do after joint surgery. It’s important to have realistic expectations. For example, artificial joints have limitations:
- Excessive joint “loading” because of the patient being overweight or strenuous activity, such as running and hiking, may injure the artificial joint.
- The artificial joint will not restore function to the same level as normal, healthy bone.
- The life span of the artificial joint is not infinite.
- Adverse effects may result in a need for additional surgery, including revision or removal of the artificial joint.
Your healthcare provider will instruct you about limiting your activities following the surgery. Remember: It is very important to follow these instructions!
The decision to resume a normal daily routine is one that only you and your doctor or orthopaedic surgeon can make. However, there are some general guidelines that your doctor may give you:
- You may practice stair-climbing in the hospital and should be able to do this by the time you leave.
- You should have no restrictions on leaving your home as long as your safety and comfort are assured. Just don’t tire yourself out; a good balance of exercise, rest, and relaxation is best for helping your body heal and gain strength.
- When to resume driving a car, going to work and/or participate in sports activities are all highly individualized decisions. Be sure to follow your doctor’s or orthopaedic surgeon’s advice and recommendations.
- You may need to take antibiotics before dental work (including dental cleaning) and any surgical procedure that could allow bacteria to enter the bloodstream. Ask your healthcare provider whether you will need to take antibiotics at certain times to prevent infection.
