Orthopedic Surgeon how-to

How to Plan Joint Replacement Recovery

Rehab drives results.

Updated By the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team
Quick answer

Rehab drives results. In short: teach; start; control, then complete the remaining steps below.

Step by step

  1. Teach expectations before surgery.

  2. Start movement early.

  3. Control pain.

  4. Prevent blood clots.

  5. Arrange physical therapy.

  6. Monitor wound healing.

Safety reminders for orthopedic surgeons

  • Use sterile technique and time-outs
  • Prevent blood clots after surgery
  • Follow radiation safety with fluoroscopy
  • Watch for compartment syndrome

Arthroscopy · ACL · Total joint replacement · Fracture · ORIF · Osteoarthritis: see the full orthopedic surgeon glossary.

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