UbiCare

Total Joint Replacement FAQs

Common Questions Orthopedic Surgeons Hear from Joint Patients

Q: How soon after surgery will I be able to drive?

A: Your physical therapist will let you know when your surgeon will allow you to drive.

If you had surgery on your right side, you will probably not be able to drive for a month. If you had surgery on your left side and have an automatic car, you may return to driving as soon as you feel comfortable.

DO NOT DRIVE while taking narcotic pain medication!

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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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