UbiCare

Total Joint Replacement FAQs

Common Questions Orthopedic Surgeons Hear from Joint Patients

Q: When will I be able to swim or do water aerobics?

A: When you see you surgeon at your follow-up exam and he or she sees that your incision is completely healed, you may then be allowed to swim and do water aerobics.

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Can I choose my rehab?

Can I drink alcohol?

Can I use my cell phone in my room?

Do I need antibiotics before dental work?

How do I get in and out of an automobile?

How long should I use compression stockings?

How long should post-op bandage stay on?

How long will I need my out-of-town caregiver?

How long will I need to be on pain medication?

How long will I need to take supplements?

How long will my new hip or knee last?

How long will my scar be?

How should I prepare my home?

How soon after surgery can I travel?

How will I handle stairs after my surgery?

Ice or heat after joint surgery?

Is it normal to feel depressed after surgery?

Is post-op insomnia normal?

May I wear nail polish during surgery?

My leg feels longer now, can that be true?

What activities can I do 3 months post-op?

What activities should I avoid?

What are knee and hip precautions?

What can I do to make my incision scar less noticeable?

What can I expect regarding recovery time?

What do I do about post-op constipation?

What equipment will I need?

What exercises should I do?

What happens if I get an infection in my new joint?

What if my surgeon says I need to go to sub-acute care?

What is a "knee immobilizer"?

What is MRSA?

What is my desirable weight?

What is the schedule for follow-up visits with my surgeon?

What kind of range of motion can I expect in my knee?

What type of anesthesia will I be given?

What type of blood thinner will I be given?

When can I go home if my surgery is faraway?

When can I resume sex after surgery?

When can I shower?

When can I use weights for exercise?

When is it safe to get in a hot tub ?

When will I be able to bear full weight on my hip or knee?

When will I be able to drive?

When will I be able to eat?

When will I be able to kneel?

→ When will I be able to swim?

When will I be able to travel by airplane?

When will I be able to work?

When will my stitches be removed?

Will I go to rehab or home from hospital?

Will I need a blood transfusion during surgery?

Will I need physical therapy after surgery?

Will my new joint set off metal detector?

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