At Salem Health Orthopedics, patients who undergo hip replacement surgery receive care plans based on their health history and needs. Jeff Cooksey, PA-C, is a physician associate who works with hip and knee replacements. He says preparation is important for recovery after surgery. The first six weeks require patients to follow specific movement guidelines to prevent complications. These guidelines are taught in preoperative education and physical therapy sessions.
Cooksey states that complications are uncommon because of the clinic’s education and early start to physical therapy. He recommends that patients arrange for help at home after surgery. Tasks like preparing meals, getting in and out of bed, and traveling to appointments may require assistance during early recovery.
A main concern after hip replacement is the risk of falling, especially at home. Cooksey advises patients to remove tripping hazards such as cords, rugs, and uneven floors before surgery. He also suggests moving obstacles like the legs of rocking chairs out of walking areas…