How to Prepare Your Body for Orthopedic Surgery

Orthopedic surgery can be a life-changing step toward restoring mobility and living a pain-free life. However, if you are planning a joint replacement surgery, ligament reconstruction, or orthopedic implant removal surgery/procedure, taking time to prepare your body may help make the recovery process faster and easier. We shall see how this is possible with the help of your orthopedic expert.

Why Is Pre-Surgery Preparation So Important?

The pre-operative preparation of the body before an orthopedic surgery makes sure that your muscles, bones, and the immune system are ready to heal. By taking appropriate pre-surgery instructions, patients tend to have fewer complications, reduced recovery time, and optimal surgery outcomes.

Some studies in India have reported higher-than-expected infection rates, reaching up to 87%, after joint replacement surgeries, though these findings vary widely based on clinical setting and patient health.

Our orthopedic surgeon in Chennai focuses on physical and nutritional preparedness just as much as the procedure itself, particularly for those who are undergoing knee or hip replacement surgery or bone grafts.

Pre-surgery preparation assists in the strengthening of your body, reduces the risks of anesthesia, and helps in the faster healing of your wound.

How Can You Physically Prepare Your Body Before Surgery?

Exercises are crucial in achieving a successful recovery. The following are some of the measures that can help you get your body ready to undergo surgery:

•       Recommended exercise: Before surgery, exercise can be performed to keep muscles strong and flexible (with the approval of your doctor).
•       Enhance movement: Strengthen the muscles surrounding your joints – e.g. quadriceps exercises before orthopedic surgery can decrease recovery time.
•       Quit smoking and alcohol use: These behaviors may retard healing and disrupt anesthesia.
•       Keep your weight normal: A mild weight loss can help relieve pressure on your joints and help you recover better after surgery.

If you are unsure which exercises to do, consult a physiotherapist or orthopedic doctor beforehand.

What Should You Eat to Support Healing and Recovery?

Preoperative diet provides your body with nutrients that help it recover. Food has a direct effect on bone strength, immune response, and post-surgery recovery.

Best Foods to Eat to Support Orthopedic Patients:

Foods rich in protein, like lentils, eggs, tofu, and paneer, assist in the rebuilding of muscles and tissues.

Spinach, sesame seeds, and dairy contain iron and calcium that aid in repairing the bones. Fruits such as oranges and guava contain vitamin C that helps in the formation of collagen to repair wounds.

Foods to Avoid in Orthopedic Treatment:

Fried, processed, or too salty foods should be avoided because they can lead to inflammation or slow down healing. In addition, avoid caffeine and sweet drinks in the run-up to your operation.

Our orthopedic hospital in Chetpet offers patients, in general, customized meal plans during post- and pre-surgery recovery.

Common Mistakes People Make Before Orthopedic Surgery (and How to Avoid Them)

Research indicates that patients with several health issues often face surgical delays, mainly due to the challenges posed by uncontrolled medical conditions. Recovery time can be impacted by even minor mistakes. The following are the pitfalls and easy ways to escape them:

Physical Preparation

Orthopedic physicians suggest the use of prehabilitation or prehab, which entails muscle strengthening prior to surgery.

•       Stretching: Makes muscles flexible and decreases stiffness.
•       Breathing exercises: Get your lungs back to shape following the anesthesia.
•       Walking practice: Walkers may be recommended for use in practice to be able to walk after surgery.

Our orthopedic surgeon in Chennai emphasizes both physical and nutritional readiness before surgery. Explore expert orthopedic services in Chennai to understand how our specialists can help.

Skipping Nutrition

Before surgery, you need to avoid neglecting your diet, which can slow down the healing process. Physical preparation is not superior to nutritional preparation.

•       Enhance protein and vitamins: Stimulate tissue repair and healing.
•       Do not use crash diets: Rapid weight loss may undermine your immunity.
•       Remain hydrated: Dehydration can influence recovery and anesthesia.

In case of doubt, ask your dietitian about a diet that suits orthopedic patients and fits your case. Also, you can enquire about orthopedic surgery cost when you get in touch with them and inform your health insurance company of reimbursements if you have taken up an insurance.

Not Managing Medications

You should always inform your trusted orthopedic doctor in Velappanchavadi, Chennai about any medications or supplements you are taking. Others might have to be suspended prior to your surgery.

Postponing Pre-Surgery Checkups.

Postponing pre-surgery checkups is another common mistake. Delaying health checks or tests such as ECG, blood sugar, or X-rays before surgery. They are vital to surgical safety.

How Can You Prepare the Right Way for Orthopedic Surgery?

The following is a list that you must know to prepare for orthopedic surgery:

•       Take medications, diet, and sleep as advised by the doctor.
•       Find after-surgery care, such as mobility aids or house help.
•       Plan adequate rest – do not overexert yourself
•       Think positive thoughts – emotional readiness can help relieve anxiety and enhance recovery.
•       Keep in mind that the preparation before orthopedic surgery can be easier and more secure.

To the patients who require urgent consultation or medical assistance before surgery, our hospital provides immediate care for critical needs 24/7.

Conclusion

You can be ready to take orthopedic surgery; it is not only about taking medical prescriptions, but also about how you take care of the body and mind to heal. With exercise, proper nutrition, stress management, and following the recommendations of your doctor, you will be in the best position to make a great comeback.

Our orthopedic physicians in Chetpet and Velappanchavadi at Dr. Mehta’s Hospitals offer end-to-end services, including pre-surgery tests to full recovery, so that every patient moves towards recovery without any hesitation. Contact Dr. Mehta’s Hospitals today to begin your recovery journey with one of Chennai’s leading healthcare providers.

FAQs

1. How long does it take to recover from orthopedic surgery?
   Recovery time varies by procedure. Minor surgeries may take a few weeks, while joint replacements may need 2–3 months of guided physiotherapy.
2. What should I avoid before orthopedic surgery?
   Avoid smoking, alcohol, and certain medications (as advised by your doctor). Steer clear of junk and processed foods.
3. What diet helps after orthopedic surgery?
   Eat foods rich in protein, calcium, and vitamin C to promote bone and muscle recovery.
4. Is exercise safe before surgery?
   Yes, light and supervised exercises can strengthen your muscles and improve recovery outcomes.
5. Where can I get orthopedic surgery in Chennai?
   You can visit Dr. Mehta’s Hospitals, trusted by families across Chennai for advanced orthopedic care and 24/7 medical support.