Before Joint Replacement Surgery
Pre-Op Exercises
During Joint Care Orientation, the clinical education specialist will provide you with a list of exercises. Practicing these BEFORE your surgery can help you best prepare for your recovery after surgery.
Preparing for Your Surgery & Post-Discharge Care
Before your surgery:
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Register here to attend our complimentary Joint Care Orientation class (optional, but recommended).
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Patients who attend Joint Care Orientation prior to surgery typically have a much better experience than those who do not.
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Park in the main parking lot. Enter the lobby and notify the receptionist that you are attending Joint Care Orientation Class. A staff member will greet you and direct you to the classroom.
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Begin discussing your discharge plans with family and friends. Information will be provided at Joint Care Orientation about equipment needed, therapy and household arrangements.
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If you take arthritis/anti-inflammatory medications, blood thinner medication or aspirin, notify the physician who prescribed the blood thinner that you are having joint surgery. This will ensure coordination between physicians.
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Practice cough and deep breathing exercises.
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Practice your total joint exercises as instructed by the physical therapist during orientation.
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Complete a home safety assessment. Information will be provided during orientation.
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Follow the Anesthesia Fasting Guidelines about eating or drinking before surgery. Most home medications can be taken with a sip of water the morning of surgery, but some specific medications should not be taken. Medication instructions for morning of surgery will be discussed at your Pre-Admission appointment. View the guidelines. Blood thinners need to be discussed with your surgeon.
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No makeup, jewelry, hairpins or nail polish should be worn on the morning of your surgery. Leave all valuables and cash at home.
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Shower with the special soap (CHG) you received during your Pre-Admission Testing Appointment. View CHG shower instructions.
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Call the Joint Care clinical education specialist at (256) 817-5368 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. if you have questions.