Pre-Op Dos & Don’ts Before Knee or Hip Replacement Surgeri
How can you prepare yourself or your loved one for a successful knee or hip replacement surgery?
One of the first things I tell my patients is this: “A successful joint replacement doesn’t begin in the operation theatre it begins much before that.”
The way you prepare before surgery plays a huge role in how smoothly the procedure goes and how quickly you recover. Over the years, I’ve seen that patients who follow simple but important pre-operative (pre-op) dos and don’ts are able to walk confidently and pain-free much earlier than those who don’t.
So, if you or a loved one is scheduled for a knee replacement or hip replacement in Nagpur, here’s my guide to preparing the right way. Whether your surgery is with the best knee replacement surgeon in Nagpur or the best hip replacement surgeon in Nagpur, proper preparation makes all the difference.
At The Joint Replacement Centre, led by Dr. Mukund Agrawal, a top orthopedic doctor in Nagpur and robotic joint replacement surgeon Nagpur, we focus on every stage of recovery from pre-operative counselling to fast recovery robotic joint replacement Nagpur. Our approach ensures that every patient receives personalized care, advanced planning, and precise outcomes making us one of the most trusted choices for knee and hip replacement doctors in Nagpur.
Why Pre-Op Preparation Matters
- Reduces the risk of complications.
- Ensures better healing and faster recovery.
- Helps patients feel more confident and in control.
- Improves long-term outcomes of the implant.
Think of it like preparing the soil before planting a seed — the better the preparation, the healthier the result.
✅ Pre-Op DOs Before Knee or Hip Replacement
1. Stay as Active as Possible
Simple exercises like walking, light stretches, or physiotherapy can strengthen the muscles around your joint. Stronger muscles support quicker recovery.
2. Eat a Nutritious Diet
Include foods rich in protein, calcium, and Vitamin D. Good nutrition boosts immunity and speeds up healing.
3. Get All Medical Check-Ups Done
We always advise cardiac, lung, and kidney evaluations. Managing conditions like diabetes, blood pressure, or obesity before surgery ensures safer outcomes.
4. Practice Breathing Exercises
Breathing techniques improve lung capacity, which is vital during anesthesia and recovery.
5. Plan Your Home & Support System
Arrange for a comfortable chair, remove obstacles like rugs, and keep essential items within easy reach. Having a family member or caregiver ready to help makes recovery stress-free.
6. Discuss Medications With Your Doctor
Some medicines, like blood thinners, need to be adjusted before surgery. Always share a complete list of your medications.
❌ Pre-Op DON’Ts Before Knee or Hip Replacement
1. Don’t Ignore Infections
Even minor infections — urinary, dental, or skin — must be treated before surgery. They can cause complications if left untreated.
2. Don’t Smoke or Drink Alcohol
Both interfere with wound healing and increase the risk of complications. Quitting even a few weeks before surgery makes a big difference.
3. Don’t Skip Physiotherapy Planning
Some patients think rehab starts after surgery. The truth is — recovery begins from Day 1, and planning ahead helps you adapt faster.
4. Don’t Self-Medicate
Never adjust doses or stop prescribed medications without medical advice. Even “harmless” over-the-counter supplements can interfere with anesthesia or healing.
5. Don’t Delay Surgery Unnecessarily
Waiting too long can worsen joint damage and make recovery harder. If your surgeon has advised replacement, it’s because the time is right.
A Real-Life Experience
One of my patients, a 68-year-old gentleman, followed every pre-operative instruction meticulously before his knee replacement in Nagpur. He stayed active, managed his blood sugar, and prepared his home for recovery. Post-surgery, under the care of the best knee replacement surgeon in Nagpur, he was walking with support within 24 hours and resumed his daily routine much faster than expected.
His story reinforces what I always say — preparation is half the cure. Whether you’re consulting the best orthopedic surgeon in Nagpur or planning a robotic knee replacement Nagpur, success truly begins with the right preparation.
My Advice as a Surgeon
If you are preparing for a knee or hip replacement:
- Think of it as a partnership between you and your surgeon.
- The surgery gives you the foundation, but your preparation and participation ensure success.
- Every little step — from diet to exercises to home adjustments — contributes to smoother recovery.
Conclusion
Pre-operative preparation is the unsung hero of successful knee replacement and hip replacement in Nagpur. By following the right dos and don’ts, you can make your surgery safer, your recovery faster, and your new joint last longer.
If you or your loved one is scheduled for a joint replacement, take these steps seriously. Whether it’s under the guidance of the best orthopedic surgeon in Nagpur or the best knee replacement surgeon in Nagpur, preparation can make your journey easier, more confident, and far more rewarding.
Remember: The surgery restores your joint. The preparation restores your life — and that’s what sets apart the top orthopedic doctors in Nagpur who focus on complete patient recovery.