Conditions such as osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, or traumatic injury, primarily associated with aging, can lead to severe joint pain, instability, and limitations in movement. If the joint function is irreversibly compromised, joint replacement surgery becomes a necessity. These surgeries offer a potential for pain-free, mobile, and stable joints based on two crucial factors: the precise execution of the surgical procedure and adherence to an effective rehabilitation process.
“There shouldn’t be any complications post joint replacement if the surgical procedure is done correctly,” says Dr Pavan Chebbi, senior consultant orthopedic surgeon at Apollo Spectra Hospitals, Bengaluru. “A good rehabilitation regimen, which includes exercises aided by physiotherapy and lifestyle modifications, is the next step towards regaining mobility.”
Personalized rehabilitation regimen
As the body compositions differ across various age groups, the capabilities of individuals undergoing joint replacement surgery vary, necessitating rehabilitation procedures tailored to factors such as sex, age, and pre-surgery fitness levels for everyone.
“For example, post-surgery physiotherapy for someone in their 50s or 60s will be very different from someone in their 70s or 80s,” says Dr Ronen Roy, director of orthopedics, Fortis Hospital, Kolkata. “The intensity of physiotherapy for those aged 70-80 post-surgery is lower. Their frailty and reduced physical demands, make it unrealistic to get the same level of therapy as younger people. Therefore, it is crucial to adopt personalized approaches to rehabilitation tailored to different age groups.”
Physiotherapy rehabilitation
After a lower limb joint replacement surgery, people are often encouraged to stand shortly after the anesthesia wears off. On the same day, they may begin with gentle joint movements to assist recovery.
“They should be able to walk, at least to go to the restroom, in 24 to 48 hours after the surgery. Roughly within 15 days, they should be able to move around their house using a walker. Gradually, they will regain full joint strength and be able to walk without the help of a walker. Physiotherapy then plays an essential part in the recovery process,” says Dr Chebbi.
Each stage in the physiotherapy regimen involves different exercises.
“Initially, they focus on increasing the joint’s motion while making sure the swelling and pain are under control. As the healing process advances, the focus should be on strengthening exercises. Finally, consider aspects like balance and gait,” says Dr Roy.
During recovery, specific outcomes should be achieved by the end of two weeks, one month, or six weeks post-surgery. If you find yourself not meeting the expected outcomes specified by your doctor, it is crucial to discuss this immediately.
“You should also remain vigilant for potential symptoms such as sudden joint swelling, fever or wound discharge and promptly seek help,” adds Dr Roy.
Lifestyle modifications
Lifestyle changes following joint replacement surgery aim to ensure sufficient bone and muscle strength to support an effective rehabilitation process. This includes meeting nutrient requirements for bone health and adhering to the exercise regimen prescribed by the physiotherapist.
“In certain cases, weight reduction is also crucial because excessive body weight can be detrimental to a replaced joint’s health. By reducing body weight, the joint can better endure over time,” says Dr Chebbi.
Experts also advise continuing the exercises practiced during the rehabilitation process even after full recovery. Incorporating them into your daily routine ensures the longevity of a healthy joint following the surgery.
Mental preparation to move
With a new joint in place, the muscles need to regain strength and adapt to the new joint. This process is made much easier today with the support of experienced surgeons and physiotherapists.
What empowers individuals with the mental strength and patience to complete the process is their determination to regain mobility.
“The surgery marks a new beginning rather than an end, as it initiates the actual movement and function of the joint as well as your independent lives,” says Dr Chebbi.
“The entire process also fosters the right frame of mind, allowing individuals to feel comfortable and confident moving independently outdoors, like everyone else,” says Dr Roy.
Takeaways
- A customized rehabilitation regimen based on their age, gender and level of pre-surgery fitness is required after a joint replacement surgery. Because different age groups have different body compositions and capabilities.
- Each stage in the physiotherapy regimen involves different exercises.
- Following a knee replacement, lifestyle modifications involve adhering to the physiotherapist’s recommended exercise routine. It also involves taking the right nutrients for bone health, and weight reduction in some cases.
