Quitting smoking is one of the most critical things to do in preparation for shoulder replacement surgery so that your surgery will be successful. It is well known that the effects of nicotine on the body directly cause chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, lung cancer, vascular disease, hypertension, coronary artery disease and blood clots – just to name a few.
In his May 2020 column for DallasCowboys.com, veteran sportswriter Mickey Spagnola opened up about his experience undergoing Achilles tendon surgery—performed by Dr. Eugene Curry of Carrell Clinic.
After being hit by a truck while biking, Spagnola tore his Achilles and was referred to Dr. Curry for surgical treatment. He wrote candidly about the anxiety leading up to the operation, the surgery itself, and the long road to recovery that followed.
Carrell Clinic welcomed Allen, Texas, resident Dr. David Tietze to its team of experts earlier this month. Dr.
Dr. David Tietze is a board-certified and fellowship-trained primary care sports medicine doctor. He specializes in sports medicine care for the shoulder, hip, knee, and lower leg. Dr. Tietze focuses on delivering individualized care focused on each patient’s needs. He works closely with his patients to help them understand their diagnosis and make the best possible choices for their care.
At 70, Debra D. lives life with purpose and passion. A retired professional who enjoys reading, dancing, and making wreaths for her small business, Debra stays active and creative. But when chronic shoulder pain started interfering with the simplest tasks, she knew it was time to find help.
“I immediately clicked with Dr. Klein,” Debra said. “He’s professional but at the same time, he’s human. He talks to you. He explains things. And he took really good care of me.”
When longtime educator and Wichita Falls resident Sherri W. needed a shoulder replacement, she knew she was in good hands with Dr. Jason Klein at Carrell Clinic in Frisco, Texas. Her surgery took place on January 15, and what followed was an experience she describes as nothing short of exceptional.
Whether you've undergone a hip, knee, or shoulder replacement, here are essential tips and guidelines to help you get back to your daily activities safely and effectively.
1. Follow Your Surgeon’s Instructions
After surgery, your joint replacement surgeon will provide specific guidelines for your recovery. These may include activity restrictions, wound care, and medications to manage pain and prevent infection. Sticking closely to these instructions is the foundation of a smooth recovery.
By taking the steps outlined below to optimize your health and environment, you’ll be well-prepared for joint replacement surgery and recovery. Remember, a little preparation can go a long way toward ensuring a smooth, successful outcome. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you prepare.
1. Focus on Your Health
Your joints can take on a lot of damage throughout your life, leading to degenerative conditions, like osteoarthritis. Joint replacement is often the recommended solution for the pain and limited mobility associated with these conditions.
Traditionally, joint replacement is performed as an inpatient procedure that often requires one to two nights of recovery in a hospital. This remains the best option for some patients; however, new options exist for select candidates.