ORTHOPEDIC SURGERY FAQ’s
Frequently asked questions and answers
“How much pain will I be in after the surgery, and how will it be managed?”
“It’s completely normal to have some pain after surgery, but our primary goal is to manage it effectively so you can be as comfortable as possible. We use a multi-modal approach, which means we’ll likely use a combination of medications, including oral pain relievers, and sometimes nerve blocks or other techniques, depending on the type of surgery. We’ll also encourage non-pharmacological methods like ice, elevation, and proper positioning. We’ll monitor your pain levels closely and adjust your medication as needed. Please don’t hesitate to tell us if you’re uncomfortable.”
“How long will it take for me to fully recover and get back to my normal activities, like work or sports?”
“Recovery time varies significantly depending on the specific surgery, your overall health, and how diligently you follow your rehabilitation plan. For many orthopedic procedures, we’re looking at several weeks for initial healing, and then several months for a more complete return to full activity. For example, a knee replacement might mean 6-12 weeks until you’re walking comfortably, but 6 months to a year for full strength and endurance. We’ll work together with your physical therapist to set realistic goals and a phased return to your activities. While our aim is to restore as much function as possible, ‘normal’ might feel a bit different, but often significantly better than before surgery.”
“What are the potential risks or complications of this surgery?”
“It’s important to be aware of the potential risks, and we take every precaution to minimize them. Common risks for most surgeries include infection, bleeding, blood clots (DVT), and adverse reactions to anesthesia. Specific to orthopedic surgery, there’s also a small risk of nerve damage, implant loosening (if applicable), or delayed healing. While these complications are rare, we’ll discuss them in detail during your consent process. We have protocols in place to prevent these issues, and we’ll monitor you closely both during and after the procedure. Please ask if any of these concerns you.”
“Will I need physical therapy, and how important is it to my recovery?”
“Yes, for almost all orthopedic surgeries, physical therapy (PT) is absolutely crucial – it’s often as important as the surgery itself. The surgery fixes the structural problem, but PT helps you regain strength, flexibility, balance, and proper movement patterns. It prevents stiffness, builds muscle around the surgical site, and teaches you how to safely use your newly repaired joint or limb. Skipping or not fully committing to PT can significantly compromise your long-term outcome and increase your risk of re-injury. Your physical therapist will guide you through exercises tailored to your specific needs, and we’ll monitor your progress closely.”
“What should I expect immediately after surgery, when I wake up?”
“When you wake up, you’ll be in the recovery room. You might feel a bit groggy or disoriented from the anesthesia, which is normal. You’ll likely have some discomfort, but we will have already started your pain management, so it should be manageable. You might have dressings on the surgical site, and possibly a drain or an IV line. Our nurses will be right there with you, monitoring your vital signs, pain levels, and making sure you’re comfortable. We’ll keep you updated on how you’re doing and when you can expect to move to your hospital room or prepare for discharge.”
“What kind of restrictions will I have after surgery, and for how long?”
“You will definitely have some temporary restrictions to protect the surgical site and allow for proper healing. These will be very specific to your procedure. For example, you might have weight-bearing restrictions (e.g., no weight on your leg for a few weeks), limitations on lifting, or restrictions on certain movements (like bending or twisting). Driving is typically not allowed while you’re on strong pain medication or if your mobility is impaired, often for several weeks. We’ll provide you with a detailed list of ‘do’s and don’ts’ before you go home, and your physical therapist will reinforce these. It’s vital to follow these restrictions carefully to prevent complications and ensure the best possible outcome.”
“How do I know if something is wrong after I go home, and who should I contact?”
“We’ll give you clear instructions on what to watch out for. Generally, you should contact us immediately if you experience a sudden increase in pain that isn’t relieved by your medication, a high fever (over 101°F or 38.3°C), significant redness, swelling, or pus coming from the incision site, or any numbness or tingling that wasn’t present before. For less urgent questions, our office will have specific hours, but for emergencies, you’ll have an after-hours number to reach the on-call doctor, or you should go to the nearest emergency room. We want you to feel secure and know that we’re here to support you through your recovery.”
