Pain, instability, and swelling in any joint can limit your daily activities and routine. While common injuries occur in your knee and shoulder joints, you can injure your hips, wrists, and neck. That said, a West Chester orthopedic surgeon can help you regain strength, stability, and function of the affected tissues through reconstructive surgery.
The surgery aims to treat your muscles, ligaments, tendons, and bone tissues to ensure you can perform like before.
Common types of sports-related reconstructive surgeries
Most sports require using your hands and legs, leading to shoulder and knee injuries. The repetitive motions can tear ligaments and inflame tendons making the affected areas painful. Common shoulder injuries that require shoulder reconstruction include dislocations, instability, rotator cuff tears, and bone fractures. Knee injuries requiring reconstruction include meniscus tears and anterior and posterior cruciate ligaments.
Ways to recover from reconstructive surgery
Before you leave the hospital, your surgeon will give you clear instructions on caring for your incisions for a quick and successful recovery. While a balanced diet and hydration are a must for an effective recovery, you must consider your daily habits after the surgery.
The following are effective strategies to help you recover from reconstructive surgery.
Rest
Your body repairs and heals during rest, so doctors recommend ample rest after major surgery. Whether the surgery repairs your muscle or born tissues, your body requires adequate cell turnover to ensure the new cells are strong and healthy. Get a comfortable bed and extra pillows for support.
Elevation
To reduce swelling and pain, you must elevate the treatment area. If it is your knee, you must place it at a higher angle than your heart’s position. Doing so limits and controls the amount of blood that reaches the knee to avoid swelling. Ensure to take prescribed medications to help with the pain.
Mind your movement
Although doctors encourage movement after surgery, it is crucial to stick to simple exercises and avoid overdoing them. For example, if you have had shoulder surgery, do not try and move your arm above your head. After knee surgery, you should avoid movements that involve a lot of twisting and turning. Talk to your specialist about the recommended extent of activity.
Engage in physical therapy
Physical therapy is effective for restoring the functions and strength of your joints and muscles. Your physical therapist will start the process with easy stretches to determine how much pressure the treatment can take.
Don’t let the affected area get wet
During the first few days after surgery, your doctor will recommend not getting the treated area wet. Although you might go home with a waterproof dressing covering, it is always important to take extra precautions. Getting your incision wet increases the possibility of infections and deters your recovery efforts.
If you have shoulder, knee, or other sports-related injuries, visit Beacon Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine for reconstructive surgery. The available surgeons and staff will accurately diagnose your injury before surgery. Call or book your appointment online and get back to your favorite sports.