+27 (011) 282-5485     +27 (011) 884-9859     Suite 207, 2nd floor, Morningside Clinic, Corner Hill & Rivonia Rd, Sandton    

PATIENT RESOURCES

Post Discharge Pain Control & Mobilisation

POST OP PAIN MANAGEMENT:

Make sure that you take your pain medications as prescribed.

Constipation is a common problem following surgery because of the anaesthetic, pain medication and decreased mobility following surgery.

Constipation is normal for a few days post surgery and nothing to worry about, however if uncomfortable this can be managed by ensuring that you eat lots of fibre, drink enough water and if needed medication can be prescribed to assist.

 Post-op there are times where things feel uncomfortable and painful. It is normal to have good days and bad days but overall the trajectory will be towards improvement of mobility and strength.

Individual patient factors related to preexisting morbidities and bone health may impact post-op mobilisation. These guidelines on mobilising are dependant on pre-operative function, and the complexity of surgery. If you do have significant preexisting factors, Dr Barrow and the team will guide you accordingly.


MOBILISING IN THE FIRST 2 WEEKS POST-OP:

Allow the wound to heal and don’t try do too much.

Follow the Physiotherapists guidelines on dressing, bathing, sleeping and mobilising from bed.

Stay at home and only mobilise to the garden

Use 2 crutches all the time to support yourself

Dr. Barrow will review you and check on the wound at 2 weeks post-op.


MOBILISING 2-6 WEEKS POST-OP:

2 to 4 weeks:

Start to use 1 crutch around the home but still be cautious and use 2 crutches when moving outside the home.

Can start using a stationary bike and do limited strengthening and range of motion exercises as guided by the Physiotherapist.

4 to 6 weeks:

Start to walk around the house without a crutch and use 1 crutch when moving outside the home.

Continue with stationary bike and increase strength and range of motion exercises.

After 6 weeks:

Dr Barrow will review you clinically and check the X-ray at 6 weeks post surgery.

If you are stable and moving comfortably, there is no need for crutches but a walking stick is recommended for long walks

Increase all activities except high impact sports, running and golf.


MOBILISING 3 MONTHS POST-OP:

Return to normal sports including running and golf.


FOLLOW UP WITH DR BARROW YEARLY FOR A CHECK UP

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