We are accepting new patients. Book your appointment today!
You want to begin the new year with your hip arthroscopy already in the rear view mirror, but you’re hoping that your recovery won’t prevent you from enjoying the holidays.
Given that hip arthroscopies have increased by a whopping 600% in the last 15 years in the United States, we wager you’re far from alone in recovering from this type of surgery over the holidays.
While you will have to make some accommodations, the team here at Western Orthopaedics feels there’s no reason why your holidays can’t still be filled with joy. After our hip preservation expert, Dr. Brian White, expertly performs your hip arthroscopy and you head back home, consider these strategies to help you navigate your recovery during the holidays.
The lead-up to the holidays can be hectic under normal circumstances, so if you’re adding hip arthroscopy to the mix, it’s a good idea to get things done well in advance. As you make your to-do list, remember that you will be limited as to what you can do after hip surgery.
For example, you likely won’t be able to drive during the first week or two, if not longer, so go out now and do your shopping, which should include your everyday supplies.
Depending on the extent of the arthroscopy that Dr. White performs, you may be using an assistive device to get around, such as a walker or crutches. These devices severely limit the use of your hands, so arm yourself with a backpack or fanny pack that can carry what you need — phone, bottle of water, etc.
For many reasons, we recommend you skip the alcohol this holiday season if you’re recovering from hip arthroscopy. For starters, if you’re taking pain medications, you shouldn’t drink alcohol.
As well, imagine negotiating the aforementioned assistive devices — walkers and crutches — under the influence. We assure you, it’s not a good idea.
So, skip the eggnog this holiday season. There will be plenty on hand next year.
Engaging in physical therapy (PT) during early recovery after hip arthroscopy is incredibly important and we don’t want the holidays to disrupt that. In fact, it’s not an exaggeration to say that PT is the second-most important piece of your hip puzzle, just after the initial arthroscopy.
So, please don’t let the holidays interfere with your PT visits, as well as your PT “homework” exercises. Be vigilant about prioritizing this part of your recovery
It’s easy to get swept up in the holidays, but if you’ve just had hip arthroscopy, go a little easier this year. Your body needs time and space to heal, so keep your holidays as simple as possible and ask for help when you need it.
Pushing yourself too hard in early recovery can delay healing and even set you back if you overextend yourself.
Ultimately, use common sense as your guide and keep your recovery ahead of everything else. If you practice prudence this holiday season, you’ll be up and dancing around for future holidays.
If you have questions about navigating your recovery from hip arthroscopy during the holidays, we’re happy to help. Simply contact one of our offices in Arvada or Denver, Colorado, to set up a consultation with Dr. White.
