All Posts in Category: Sports Medicine

Your Essential Checklist for Preparing for Shoulder Surgery: Steps for a Smoother Recovery

Facing shoulder surgery requires upfront preparation to ensure the best health outcomes and a smooth recovery after suffering a shoulder injury. In this guide, you’ll discover the essential steps for preparing for shoulder surgery—ranging from understanding your specific surgery and modifying your lifestyle, to engaging with your surgical team and setting up post-surgery support. Each section provides straightforward strategies to tackle the practical aspects of surgery preparation, aiding your journey toward regaining strength and mobility in your shoulder.

Key Takeaways

  • Shoulder surgery includes rotator cuff repair, shoulder arthroscopy, and total joint replacement, each targeting different issues with specialized procedures for pain relief and improved function.
  • Preparation for shoulder surgery involves lifestyle changes such as quitting smoking and reducing alcohol, organizing home and work life for a smoother recovery, and proactive communication with the surgical team.
  • Post-surgery recovery encompasses adhering to a personalized rehabilitation plan, managing pain, being aware of potential complications, and ensuring proper support systems are in place for a successful healing process.
x-ray of rotator cuff

Understanding Shoulder Surgery Types

Shoulder surgery can take various forms, depending on the specific condition or injury being addressed. The three most common types are rotator cuff repair, shoulder arthroscopy, and joint replacement. Each of these procedures aims to restore stability and functionality to the affected shoulder.

Familiarizing yourself with shoulder procedure options and following shoulder surgery recovery tips will help you better prepare for shoulder surgery, thereby speeding up your recovery.

Rotator Cuff Repair

Rotator cuff surgery, also known as rotator cuff repair, is a common type of shoulder surgery aimed at alleviating pain and restoring function to the shoulder. During this procedure:

  1. The torn tendon, which is part of the rotator cuff tendons, is reattached to the head of the humerus (the upper arm bone).
  2. This reattachment allows the muscles and tendons in the rotator cuff to function properly again.
  3. It reduces pain and improves the range of motion in the affected shoulder.

The effectiveness of rotator cuff repair largely depends on the patient’s dedication toward their recovery, which includes diligently following the prescribed physical therapy program and making appropriate lifestyle adjustments. With consistent effort, you can regain full function in your shoulder and get back to your normal activities.

Shoulder Arthroscopy

Shoulder arthroscopy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure that diagnoses and treats various shoulder conditions. The procedure involves making small incisions in the shoulder and inserting specialized instruments to examine and repair the shoulder joint. Common conditions treated by shoulder arthroscopy include rotator cuff tears, labral tears, and degenerative arthritis.

Advancements in shoulder arthroscopy emphasize minimally invasive techniques, which often result in less post-operative pain, shorter hospital stays, and quicker recovery times. The goal of shoulder arthroscopy is not only to treat the existing condition but also to prevent further injury by addressing any underlying issues that may contribute to shoulder instability or pain.

Joint Replacement

Total shoulder joint replacement becomes a viable option when severe shoulder conditions require the replacement of the natural ball and socket joint with artificial components. The replacement process involves removing the damaged components of the shoulder joint and replacing them with artificial parts crafted from safe, long-lasting materials.

Joint replacement surgery aims to alleviate pain and restore normal function to the shoulder. Post-operative physical therapy is crucial to regain full range of motion and strength in the affected arm. With proper care and adherence to post-operative guidelines, patients can expect significant improvement in shoulder function and a return to regular activities.

Pre-Surgical Lifestyle Adjustments

The choices you make in your day-to-day life greatly influence your recovery and the prevention of potential complications. Notably, quitting smoking is one of the main pre-surgical directives, as nicotine and chemicals in cigarettes interfere with healing. Numerous programs and resources are available to support you in quitting smoking, such as the National Alliance for Tobacco Cessation’s ‘Become an EX’ and the American Lung Association’s ‘Freedom from Smoking’.

Another essential lifestyle adjustment is reducing alcohol intake before surgery. Short-term abstinence from alcohol can drastically lower complication risks and shorten hospital stays. In addition, maintaining a healthy diet of unprocessed foods can further promote recovery. If you are overweight, consider a weight loss plan well ahead of surgery, but avoid dieting the month before to ensure sufficient nutrition for recovery.

Communicating with Your Surgical Team

Maintaining a clear line of communication with your surgical team significantly contributes to successful surgery preparation and recovery. It’s imperative to follow pre-surgical instructions, such as:

  • Disclose any medications or supplements you are currently taking to your doctor and surgeon
  • Disclose any health concerns or recent changes in your health
  • Report any illness such as a cold or flu leading up to your surgery immediately to your healthcare provider.

At Plancher Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine, we prioritize patient communication and are committed to addressing all your concerns. We understand that different patients have different communication preferences, from traditional letters to phone calls, texts, or secure online messaging. Our team is flexible and can adapt to your preferred method of communication to ensure clear and effective delivery of preoperative instructions.

Organizing Home and Work Life

Getting your home and work affairs in order before surgery can greatly facilitate a smoother recovery process. Here are some steps you can take:

  1. Notify your workplace or school about your surgery and expected recovery time to ensure you have adequate time off for proper recuperation.
  2. Stock your pantry and fridge with pre-prepared meals, high-fiber foods, and over-the-counter laxatives for constipation relief.
  3. Prepare personal treats for comfort.

By following these steps, you can make your recovery process more manageable.

Consider reorganizing your home for easy access to frequently used items. Some tips for organizing your home after surgery include:

  • Obtain tools to help with bathroom safety and independence
  • Ensure a sufficient supply of toiletries
  • Organize your medications in a medicine box to minimize post-surgery hassle and confusion.

During your recovery journey, remember to celebrate incremental achievements and maintain a positive outlook to better cope with the healing process.

woman exercising in prepration for shoulder surgery

Physical Therapy and Exercise Preparation

Participating in pre-surgery physical therapy and exercise can significantly enhance your recovery results. Physical therapy can lead to:

  • the return of full range of motion
  • increased strength
  • flexibility
  • shorter hospital stays due to reduced muscle atrophy and improved balance

Orthopaedic specialists can recommend a prehabilitation period tailored to your individual needs, ranging from several weeks to as little as two weeks before surgery.

Physical therapy exercises, guided by a physical therapist, aim to restore strength, flexibility, and regular movement, starting with using the non-dominant hand for tasks and gradually progressing to more challenging exercises. Remember, the success of your recovery largely depends on your commitment to the prescribed physical therapy program.

Selecting Appropriate Clothing and Footwear

The selection of suitable clothing and footwear after surgery can greatly affect your comfort levels and mobility during the surgery recovery period. Opt for easy-to-wear options like front-buttoned shirts or blouses with magnetic closures over traditional buttons, and adaptive clothing such as open-back tops to avoid raising your arms overhead.

Loose-fitting clothes can help manage post-surgery swelling and improve airflow. Consider elastic-waisted pants with side zippers and underwear with front openings for ease of dressing with one hand. As for footwear, slip-on shoes or those with Velcro are recommended as they are easy to put on and take off without excessive bending or using your arms.

Planning Post-Surgery Support

Support after surgery is a critical component of your recovery journey. Organize a contact person to drive you home after surgery and check on you, especially if you live alone. Also, confirm help from friends or relatives for transportation to appointments in the initial weeks after surgery.

Beyond physical assistance, emotional support plays a critical role in recovery. Having friends and relatives accompany you during recovery can help keep your spirits high and provide the necessary assistance as needed. Remember, it’s okay to ask for help. Your loved ones want you to recover just as much as you do.

Navigating the Recovery Process

The journey of recovering from shoulder surgery demands patience and strict compliance to post-surgery directives. Pain management often involves prescription medications, and it’s recommended to take pain medicine before the pain becomes severe. Applying cold packs to reduce inflammation, engaging in physical therapy, and using ice packs or cold therapy systems can ease pain and swelling.

It’s also crucial to keep surgical incisions clean to prevent infection. Here are some guidelines to follow:

  1. Dressings should be maintained as per the surgeon’s instructions until the stitches are removed, usually 1 to 2 weeks post-surgery.
  2. Remember to limit movement and wear a sling to avoid reinjury during recovery.
  3. Follow post-surgery guidelines carefully to ensure proper healing. Your dedication to these guidelines will accelerate your healing process and get you back to your regular activities sooner.

The Importance of Post-Surgery Rehabilitation

Rehabilitation after surgery is a vital step in regaining shoulder function and ensuring proper healing. A comprehensive and personalized rehabilitation plan, developed through close collaboration between the physiotherapist and surgeon, can progress from:

  • Pain management
  • Range of motion exercises
  • Strengthening exercises
  • Stretching exercises
  • Functional exercises

These exercises are tailored to your needs and will help you regain strength and mobility in your shoulder.

The typical rehabilitation period extends to about 4 months post-surgery, which can vary depending on the severity of the injury and the type of surgical repair. Stick to the rehabilitation exercises recommended by the physiotherapist. They aim to:

  • Restore the scapula-humeral rhythm for maximum range of motion
  • Enhance the stability of shoulder muscles
  • Incorporate weight-bearing and range-of-motion exercises to condition the shoulder for optimal activity levels.

Recognizing Potential Complications

Although most shoulder surgeries go smoothly, staying alert to possible complications allows for quick responses should any arise. Pay close attention to signs of infection after shoulder surgery, such as:

  • pain and stiffness
  • high temperature
  • redness
  • swelling
  • the potential presence of discharge at the surgical site

If you experience any of these symptoms, contact your surgeon immediately.

Excessive or worsening pain, swelling, changes in skin color, decreased mobility, difficulty breathing, chest pain, or allergic reactions are also troubling symptoms that require prompt communication with healthcare providers. Remember, your health and safety are the top priority. Don’t hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider if you experience any of the following complications:

  • Excessive or worsening pain
  • Swelling
  • Changes in skin color
  • Decreased mobility
  • Difficulty breathing
  • Chest pain
  • Allergic reactions

Summary

In conclusion, preparing for shoulder surgery involves several steps, from understanding the type of surgery you’ll undergo, making pre-surgical lifestyle adjustments, and communicating openly with your surgical team, to organizing your home and work life, engaging in physical therapy, selecting appropriate clothing and footwear, planning post-surgery support, navigating the recovery process, and recognizing potential complications. Adhering to these steps can significantly improve your recovery outcomes and get you back to your regular activities sooner. Remember, every step you take towards preparation and recovery is a step toward regaining your health and vitality. If in need of shoulder surgery contact Plancher Orthopaedics today and find out how we can help you recover from your shoulder injury!

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the fastest way to recover from shoulder surgery?

The fastest way to recover from shoulder surgery is to keep your shoulder immobilized, follow your physical therapy routine, organize your home, get help with driving, set up a comfortable sleep space, eat healthy foods, and ask your doctor or physical therapist if you have any questions. Additionally, ensure you have enough help at home, be cautious during sleep, prioritize rest, adhere to the recommended physical therapy plan, watch for complications, and be mindful of your movements.

What are the rules before shoulder surgery?

Before shoulder surgery, remember not to eat or drink after midnight. Also, follow the instructions for taking your medications with just a sip of water. These steps are important to ensure a successful surgery.

What should I avoid before shoulder surgery?

Before your shoulder surgery, avoid anti-inflammatory medications and blood thinners, as they can increase the risk of bleeding. Inform your surgeon if you are taking any drugs to prevent blood clotting.

What do I need at home after shoulder surgery?

After shoulder surgery, it’s important to have a button-down, oversized shirt, a long-handled back washer, a pillow wedge for sleeping, and a medicine box for necessary medications close by. Consider a detachable shower head, a front-closure bra, a shower chair if you’re unsteady, and pre-made or frozen meals for convenience.

What are some common types of shoulder surgeries?

Common types of shoulder surgeries include rotator cuff repair, shoulder arthroscopy, and joint replacement. These procedures can address a variety of shoulder issues and improve overall function.

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A Guide to Effective Rehab After Knee Surgery: Tips and Exercises

After suffering a knee injury and going into surgery, swift and effective rehab is crucial for regaining your strength and mobility. This to-the-point guide cuts through the confusion to highlight key steps and exercises in the rehab after knee surgery, equipping you with the knowledge to recover with confidence. Expect to find focused advice on rebuilding your knee’s capabilities and returning to everyday life with greater ease.

Key Takeaways

  • Rehabilitation is critical after knee surgery to regain mobility and strength, with the potential for most patients to return to activities within three months if they adhere to a dedicated physical therapy regimen.
  • Physical therapy for knee rehab should begin immediately after surgery to prevent complications and starts with pain management, ice therapy, and early assisted mobilizations such as walking to promote healing.
  • A personalized rehab plan created by a physical therapist is essential, involving exercises to improve range of motion and strength, self-monitoring progress, setting realistic goals, and a long-term commitment to low-impact activities to maintain knee health post-recovery.
sports injury, physical therapy

The Importance of Rehabilitation Following Knee Surgery

Undergoing knee surgery, including total knee replacement surgery, is just the first step in your journey to reclaiming your mobility. The real magic happens during the rehabilitation phase after joint replacement. Your new knee needs to be trained to function optimally, and that’s where rehabilitation comes into play.

Eliminating knee pain and regaining mobility are the core objectives of an effective rehabilitation plan after knee surgery. And, if you’re worried about the duration of this journey, here’s the good news – engaging in physical therapy exercises and adhering to your doctor’s instructions can significantly speed up your recovery time. In fact, with effective rehabilitation, you can return to most activities in just three months following knee surgery.

Benefits of Rehab

So, what exactly are the benefits of a rehabilitation program after knee surgery? Well, the first goal is to ensure more complete joint movement and safely stimulate the muscles attached to the knee. This is critical to eliminate joint and muscle stiffness, build strength, improve balance, and regain a normal gait.

Physical therapy exercises not only restore mobility, range of motion, and overall joint function following exercises but also strengthen supporting muscles and eliminate stiffness. This means that you’ll not only recover faster but also return stronger. A consistent physical therapy routine after surgery is vital to strengthening supporting muscles and eliminating stiffness.

Whether it’s returning to work or resuming your favorite sport, activity-specific rehabilitation during physical therapy helps restore the strength and skills needed.

The Role of Physical Therapy

Physical therapy is not a one-size-fits-all approach. Every individual is unique, and so are their needs and limitations. This is why physical therapists create a customized rehab program tailored to your specific needs. This could involve a range of exercises that evolve as you progress in your recovery.

Physical therapy techniques such as joint and soft tissue mobilization are used to alleviate pain, improve motion, and aid in healing. Physical therapy plays a pivotal role in accelerating recovery by easing pain, reducing inflammation, maintaining circulation, and restoring joint strength and mobility.

The success of your knee rehabilitation, however, requires your active involvement and adherence to the prescribed program. After all, the goal of physical therapy for knee rehabilitation is not only to restore strength but also to improve overall function and quality of life.

First Steps in Post-Surgery Recovery

Once your surgery is over, and you’re slowly waking up from the anesthesia, you might be wondering, “What’s next?” The first steps in your post-surgery recovery journey involve effective pain management, ice therapy to reduce swelling, and importantly, early mobility. Yes, you read that right! Your rehabilitation begins right after you wake up from surgery, with exercises starting in the recovery room to speed up recovery and decrease post-operative pain.

An immediate post-surgery goal is to get you out of bed and walking within a few hours. This early mobility not only promotes healing but also helps reduce the risk of complications such as blood clots. As for the hospital stay, it typically lasts for one night, with most patients being discharged the following day. However, if you’re in good health and have adequate support at home, discharge on the same day of surgery is also possible.

Pain Management Techniques

Post-surgery pain management is a crucial aspect of your recovery journey. It typically involves a combination of opioids, NSAIDs, and local anesthetics, administered according to a doctor’s instructions. Preemptive analgesia, which is administered before surgery, minimizes central and peripheral hypersensitivity and limits postoperative pain.

Pain management in physical therapy includes using modalities such as:

  • heat
  • cold
  • ultrasound
  • electric stimulation

to alleviate pain and promote tissue healing. But it’s important to know that while epidural and patient-controlled analgesia can offer effective pain management, they do come with certain risks such as urinary retention for epidurals and the need for careful monitoring with PCA. So, it’s crucial to follow your doctor’s and physical therapist’s guidance to manage pain effectively and safely.

Early Mobility

Knee surgery might limit you momentarily, but that’s not a reason for you to stay in bed. Physical therapy should begin immediately after surgery to prevent blood clots, promote healing, and avoid muscle atrophy. Assisted walking post-surgery is crucial, starting with aids like walkers or crutches, aiming to gradually transition to partial and then full weight-bearing as strength and endurance improve.

The gradual introduction of weight-bearing exercises is essential, with a focus on planning progressive increases in activity levels while maintaining a balance with rest. Achieving full knee extension within the first 48 hours and progressively increasing knee flexion according to the surgeon’s advice are critical early mobility goals post-knee surgery. So, as you can see, early mobility is key to your speedy recovery.

Developing a Customized Rehab Plan with Your Physical Therapist

Remember how we talked about the importance of a customized rehab plan? Well, your physical therapist will work closely with you to develop a plan tailored to your specific needs. This will focus on areas such as:

  • strength
  • flexibility
  • balance
  • coordination

There’s a critical window of time in which the range of motion in surrounding muscles around your new joint can be restored. Your rehab plan will guide you through different stages starting with gentle exercises and advancing towards more demanding ones as prescribed by your physical therapist.

The rehab plan isn’t just about what you do in the clinic. It can also include video visits for your physical and occupational therapist to observe your immediate surroundings. This ensures that prescribed exercises are adapted accordingly to enhance recovery at home.

Setting Realistic Goals

Setting realistic goals is a crucial part of your rehab journey. These goals are not just about improving mobility and restoring functional movement, but also about increasing your independence. A key to successful rehab is finding a balance between the desire to regain mobility and the necessity to avoid actions that cause excessive swelling or pain, which may indicate overexertion.

Personal motivation, bolstered by a positive mindset, significantly affects recovery time after knee surgery and is essential for successful rehabilitation. Whether it’s returning to your favorite sport, or simply being able to play with your grandchildren in the park, setting achievable goals that resonate with your interests can heighten motivation and commitment to your exercise regimen post-surgery.

Monitoring Progress

Just like any journey, your rehab journey also requires you to keep a check on your progress. Regular check-ins with your physical therapist are necessary to assess your progress and adjust your rehab plan, ensuring that it remains tailored to your evolving needs. Keeping track of progress through journals or charts can help visualize milestones. There are even apps that record daily exercises and achievements to contribute to your motivation and consistency with your exercise program.

It’s also important to communicate openly with your healthcare team about any struggles or concerns. This leads to tailored advice and adjustments in the rehab plan to address individual needs. So, don’t hesitate to share your feelings and doubts with your therapist. They’re here to help you.

Essential Exercises for Knee Surgery Rehab

Now, let’s talk about the heart of your rehabilitation plan – the exercises. The initial phase of post-knee surgery rehab focuses on activities designed to improve your range of motion. Then, comes strength training exercises like Quadriceps Sets, Straight Leg Raises, and Knee Straightening Exercises.

As your strength and stability improve, the exercise regimen advances to include more challenging exercises that require standing on one or both feet. After a month of sticking to your rehab schedule, you can expect a dramatic improvement in knee strength and range of motion. And, of course, gait training is incorporated to adjust your walking patterns and reduce the risk of additional knee stress or injury.

Leg Strengthening Exercises

Strengthening your lower leg and muscles plays a crucial role in your recovery. Recommended exercises include:

  • Quadriceps Sets
  • Straight Leg Raises
  • Gluteal Sets
  • Short Arc Quads
  • Hamstring Raises

These knee-strengthening exercises help build muscle strength and support knee movement, as well as strengthen the supporting muscles around the knee.

As you progress in your recovery, resistance exercises like assisted knee bends and using light ankle weights are introduced to further promote knee strength. Stationary cycling can aid in regaining muscle strength and knee mobility, with a focus on pedaling backward initially and increasing tension over time. Remember, progression in exercises must be gradual to prevent complications and ensure proper recovery.

Range of Motion Exercises

To improve your knee’s range of motion exercises such as Ankle Pumps are recommended. These involve moving the foot up and down to prevent blood clots. Heel Slide exercises, which include sliding the heel towards the legs and buttocks and holding the position, aid in increasing knee flexibility shortly after surgery.

Bed-Supported Knee Bends and Knee Straightening Exercises help initiate the return of mobility and should be performed as soon as possible post-surgery. More advanced exercises like Sitting Supported Knee Bends and Sitting Unsupported Knee Bends further the range of motion by actively bending the operated knee. Focusing on achieving full knee extension and increasing knee flexion is crucial during the first 48 hours following surgery.

Balance and Stability Exercises

Balance and stability are as important as strength and flexibility. For this, your rehab plan will include balance exercises along with proprioceptive training and neuromuscular re-education. Initial balance exercises include standing with one foot on a chair to challenge stability and strengthen leg muscles.

As you advance, you can progress to:

  • Standing on your operated leg, which improves stability and core strength
  • Balancing on one foot with your eyes closed to better prevent falls (more advanced proprioceptive training)
  • Dynamic activities like walking heel-to-toe, are beneficial for coordinating movement and regaining confidence in walking after surgery.

Tips for a Successful Rehab Journey

Embarking on your rehab journey can seem daunting, but there are some things you can do to make it successful. Establishing a new routine during recovery, including set times for personal care, meals, and exercises, can provide comfort and structure, aiding in maintaining motivation.

Staying Consistent with Your Exercise Program

Consistency is key when it comes to your exercise program. Your physical therapist will educate you on the importance of adhering to your rehab program to ensure successful recovery. You can pair exercises with enjoyable activities, such as watching TV or listening to music, to improve adherence to the rehabilitation process.

Patients are recommended to perform their exercises twice a day, with 10 repetitions each session, to maintain consistency in their recovery routine. For continued benefits, patients should persist with their prescribed exercise program at least two to three times a week until eight to ten months post-operation. Incorporating virtual or real rewards can act as a motivational tool to help maintain consistent exercise habits after surgery.

Listening to Your Body

Listening to your body is just as important as sticking to your rehab program. Taking breaks when experiencing pain and stiffness can prevent discouragement and help maintain focus on recovery. If rehab exercises cause severe pain, it is essential to cease these activities and speak with a healthcare professional.

It is important to consult with a doctor before starting any new activities after knee surgery to avoid exacerbating any issues. So, pay attention to your body’s signals and take action accordingly.

Seeking Support

Recovery is often a team effort. Physical therapists may instruct family members or caregivers on how to support you through exercises, ensuring safety and aiding recovery. Joining support groups, like the ACL Recovery Club, can provide the emotional support of a community during rehab.

Some ways to stay connected and receive support during the recovery process include:

  • Finding a ‘rehab buddy’ who can provide direct support and encouragement by sharing experiences and participating in exercises
  • Accepting help from family and friends for tasks and errands, as it is not a sign of weakness
  • Staying connected with others and making friends in physical therapy
  • Staying in touch with loved ones to help prevent feelings of isolation and depression during recovery.

Long-Term Recovery and Maintaining Knee Health

Once you’ve completed your rehab program, the journey doesn’t end there. Adherence to exercise routines post-rehabilitation can lead to a return to normal daily life with minimal limitations on high-impact activities.

By 12 weeks post-surgery, most patients should be able to participate in low-impact recreational activities such as walking and swimming, with significantly reduced stiffness and pain.

Continuing Exercises

Continuing with the prescribed exercises post-rehab is vital for maintaining the benefits achieved during the rehabilitation process. Regular follow-up appointments during the first year after knee surgery are key to ensuring ongoing improvement in knee and overall health afterwards.

Engaging in Low-Impact Activities

Engaging in low-impact activities like walking, swimming, and cycling promotes weight management and knee joint longevity. Walking aids in building knee strength and can be incrementally increased in difficulty.

Swimming and water exercises offer non-weight-bearing movement that minimizes stress on the artificial knee.

Summary

In this comprehensive guide, we’ve unveiled the key aspects of a successful rehabilitation journey after knee surgery – from the importance of rehab to the role of physical therapy, from pain management techniques to early mobility, from setting realistic goals to monitoring progress, and from essential exercises to tips for a successful rehab journey. Remember, your active involvement and adherence to the prescribed rehab program play a pivotal role in your recovery.

As Dr. Kevin D. Plancher, an experienced orthopedic surgeon, always says, “Rehabilitation after knee surgery is not a sprint, it’s a marathon.” So, be patient, stay consistent, listen to your body, seek support, and keep moving forward, because every step you take is a step closer to reclaiming your mobility and getting back to the activities you love. Contact Plancher Orthopaedics today to learn more information!

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is rehab after knee surgery?

Rehabilitation after knee surgery typically lasts about 12 weeks, but many people can walk without assistance after 3 weeks and drive after 4–6 weeks. Most patients can take care of themselves within 3 to 6 more weeks after surgery.

What is the hardest part of knee replacement recovery?

The hardest part of knee replacement recovery is regaining knee motion in the early stages, up to 3 months postoperative. This can be a significant challenge for many patients.

What are the do’s and don’ts after knee surgery?

After knee surgery, avoid downhill skiing or contact sports like football and soccer. Instead, opt for lower-impact activities such as hiking, gardening, swimming, tennis, and golf.

How long does it take for a knee to fully heal after surgery?

It may take around 4 to 6 months, or up to a year, to fully recover after knee replacement surgery, depending on various factors such as activity level before surgery.

What exercises are recommended after knee surgery?

After knee surgery, it’s important to do exercises like Quadriceps Sets, Straight Leg Raises, and Knee Straightening Exercises to build muscle strength and support to bend your knee during movement. These exercises can aid in the recovery process.

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50 Years AOSSM

Kevin D. Plancher, MD, MPH Attends Magellan Society & AOSSM 50

New York and Greenwich, CT
July 17, 2022

Magellan Society & AOSSM 50

Magellan Society & AOSSM 50Kevin D. Plancher’s, MD, MPH, FAAOS recently attended the Magellan Society 2022 in Tabernash, Colorado followed by the 50th Annual AOSSM Meeting in Colorado Springs, Colorado. The Magellan Society is an International Society that brings together as members the Traveling Fellows and the guiding Godparents who were pre-selected by their parent Sports Medicine Societies of North America (AOSSM), Europe (ESSKA), the Pacific Region (APOA), and South America (SLARD) for carefully planned tours of the other regions’ major sports medicine centers. The traveling fellowship program is an annual scientific and cultural exchange among orthopaedic sports medicine physicians in North America, Europe, the Pacific Rim, and South America. The American Orthopaedic Society for Sports Medicine’s (AOSSM) mission is to be the premier global, sports medicine organization representing the interests of orthopaedic surgeons and other professionals who provide comprehensive health services for the care of athletes and active people of all ages and abilities.

Magellan Society & AOSSM 50

While in attendance Dr. Plancher presented, “Repairing Lateral Meniscus Tears in Patients with ACLR Ensures Low Rate of OA Compared to Lateral Meniscectomy” at the Magellan Society meeting. Dr. Plancher also presented the course, “The Business of Medicine: Hospital-Based, Academic, Private Practice–Learning How To Succeed.” The purpose of this course was to give physicians a comprehensive understanding of all aspects of medicine from health insurance and coding to marketing and enhancing your visibility to compete in the current healthcare marketplace with a sports medicine practice. This included caring of patients with COVID-19, tricks for telemedicine to succeed, and maintaining income.

Magellan Society & AOSSM 50Kevin D. Plancher, MD, MPH, FAAOS, is a board-certified orthopaedic surgeon and founder of Plancher Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine. Dr. Plancher is a Clinical Professor, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, at Montefiore Medical Center/Albert Einstein College of Medicine and an Adjunct Clinical Assistant Professor of Orthopaedic Surgery, at the Weill Cornell Medical College, Cornell University in New York. Since 2001, he has been listed annually in the Castle Connolly directory as a “top doctor” in his field.

Plancher Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine is a comprehensive orthopaedics and sports medicine practice with offices in New York City and Greenwich, CT. Leaders in orthopaedics, sports medicine, and acute emergency treatment of sports injuries and rehabilitation utilizing the latest techniques in orthopaedic care. plancherortho.com.

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ACSM

Kevin D. Plancher, MD, MPH Attends ACSM

New York and Greenwich, CT
June 5, 2022

ACSM

Kevin D. Plancher’s, MD, MPH, FAAOS attended the American College of Sports Medicine 2022 Annual Meeting and World Congresses in San Diego, California this past week. The 2022 ACSM Annual Meeting, World Congress on Exercise is Medicine and World Congress on the Basic Science of Exercise and Vascular Health showcased the latest in exercise science and sports medicine—programming that covers the science, practice, public health and policy aspects of sports medicine, exercise science and physical activity.

Dr. PlancherWhile in attendance Dr. Plancher chaired the session “State-of-the-Art Knee Cartilage and OA: Indications for Remedies from Nonoperative and Biologics to Operative Interventions. “This session explored nonoperative advancements for solving common knee pain associated with various knee cartilage pathologies, interactive case presentations and audience participation will follow the short didactic lectures. Topics covered included the indications and role of injectables from steroids, viscosupplementation, and biologist as well as the pros and cons of bracing and physical therapy programs. Understanding when surgical intervention is necessary and which procedure may return the individual to actives of daily living or sport were highlighted.”

Kevin D. Plancher, MD, MPH, FAAOS, is a board-certified orthopaedic surgeon and founder of Plancher Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine. Dr. Plancher is a Clinical Professor, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, at Montefiore Medical Center/Albert Einstein College of Medicine and an Adjunct Clinical Assistant Professor of Orthopaedic Surgery, at the Weill Cornell Medical College, Cornell University in New York. Since 2001, he has been listed annually in the Castle Connolly directory as a “top doctor” in his field.

Plancher Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine is a comprehensive orthopaedics and sports medicine practice with offices in New York City and Greenwich, CT. Leaders in orthopaedics, sports medicine, and acute emergency treatment of sports injuries and rehabilitation utilizing the latest techniques in orthopaedic care. plancherortho.com.

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Orthopaedic Journal of Sports Medicine

Kevin D. Plancher, MD, MPH & Colleagues Article Published in OJSM

New York and Greenwich, CT
May 27, 2022

Colleagues Article Published in OJSM

The Orthopaedic Journal of Sports Medicine recently published selected article “Treatment of Lateral Meniscus Tears Influences OA Rate following ACL Reconstruction at 9-year Follow-Up” written by Kevin D. Plancher, MD, MPH and his research team at the Orthopaedic Foundation. This article addresses recent studies have described an increased risk of osteoarthritis (OA) following ACL reconstruction (ACLR). Systematic reviews have suggested that meniscal pathology, which occurs in up to 60% of patients with ACL injury, increases this risk. The purpose of this study was to determine the influence of lateral meniscus tears and repair versus partial lateral meniscectomy on the risk of OA in patients following ACLR.

Kevin D. Plancher, MD, MPH, is a board-certified orthopaedic surgeon and founder of Plancher Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine. Dr. Plancher is a Clinical Professor, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, at Montefiore Medical Center/Albert Einstein College of Medicine and an Adjunct Clinical Assistant Professor of Orthopaedic Surgery, at the Weill Cornell Medical College, Cornell University in New York. Since 2001, he has been listed annually in the Castle Connolly directory as a “top doctor” in his field.

Plancher Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine is a comprehensive orthopaedics and sports medicine practice with offices in New York City and Greenwich, CT. Leaders in orthopaedics, sports medicine, and acute emergency treatment of sports injuries and rehabilitation utilizing the latest techniques in orthopaedic care. plancherortho.com.

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Orthopaedic Journal of Sports Medicine

Orthopaedic Journal of Sports Medicine Publishes Kevin D. Plancher, MD, MPH Article on Bovine Bioinductive Patch Satisfaction

New York and Greenwich, CT
November 15, 2021

Orthopaedic Journal of Sports Medicine PublishesKevin D. Plancher, MD, MPH is pleased to announce the online availability of Rotator Cuff Repair and the Bovine Bioinductive Patch: Excellent Functional Outcomes and Satisfaction in Patients with Comorbidities in Volume: 9 Issue: 10 of Orthopaedic Journal of Sports Medicine, October 29, 2021. Structural failure of rotator cuff repair (RCR) has been reported to occur in 20-94% at one to two-year follow-up with 80% of these failures occurring within three months of surgical intervention. Poor functional outcomes as well as higher rates of retear have been reported in patients with compromised healing potential due to comorbidities such as diabetes, smoking, obesity, and hypercholesterolemia. Augmentation with growth factors and/or biologically augmented patches has been shown to decrease re-tear rates. Biologically-augmented patches provide an environment that is conducive for cell and vessel migration. We investigated patient outcomes following RCR plus bovine bioinductive patch augmentation.

Dr. Plancher and his colleagues studied consecutive series of patients (2015-2018) that underwent RCR plus bovine bioinductive patch by a single surgeon were identified. Patients with diabetes, obesity, hypercholesterolemia, and smokers were included. Patients were excluded with revision rotator cuff repairs. Physical exam included shoulder ROM and manual muscle strength. Patients completed DASH, SF-12 physical and mental, VAS pain and patient satisfaction scores to assess postoperative functional outcomes. Paired sample t-tests were used to assess differences before and after surgery (p<0.05). To read the full article, please visit SAGE journals.

Kevin D. Plancher, MD, MPH, is a board-certified orthopaedic surgeon and founder of Plancher Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine. Dr. Plancher is a Clinical Professor, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, at Montefiore Medical Center/Albert Einstein College of Medicine and an Adjunct Clinical Assistant Professor of Orthopaedic Surgery, at the Weill Cornell Medical College, Cornell University in New York.

Plancher Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine is a comprehensive orthopaedics and sports medicine practice with offices in New York City and Greenwich, CT. Leaders in orthopaedics, sports medicine, and acute emergency treatment of sports injuries and rehabilitation utilizing the latest techniques in orthopaedic care. plancherortho.com.

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Orthopaedic Journal of Sports Medicine

Kevin D. Plancher, MD, MPH 10-Year Follow-up Study Published in Orthopaedic Journal of Sports Medicine

New York and Greenwich, CT
November 8, 2021

Arthroscopic Bankart repairKevin D. Plancher, MD, MPH is pleased to announce the publication of Failure Rates in Contact versus Non-Contact Athletes Following Arthroscopic Inferior Capsular Shift at 10-Year Follow-Up in Volume: 9 Issue: 10 of Orthopaedic Journal of Sports Medicine, October 29, 2021. Arthroscopic Bankart repair has become the surgical procedure of choice for many in the United States, over the Latarjet in Europe, for first time anterior shoulder instability with minimal bone loss, less than 20%. However, high recurrence rates in contact athletes have led many to proceed with open type procedures.

Dr. Plancher and his colleagues purpose was to compare failure rates and functional outcomes of the arthroscopic inferior capsular shift in contact and non-contact athletes. They hypothesized that contact and non-contact athletes would exhibit excellent functional outcomes and return to sport with low recurrence rates. To read the full article, please visit SAGE journals.

Kevin D. Plancher, MD, MPH, is a board-certified orthopaedic surgeon and founder of Plancher Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine. Dr. Plancher is a Clinical Professor, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, at Montefiore Medical Center/Albert Einstein College of Medicine and an Adjunct Clinical Assistant Professor of Orthopaedic Surgery, at the Weill Cornell Medical College, Cornell University in New York.

Plancher Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine is a comprehensive orthopaedics and sports medicine practice with offices in New York City and Greenwich, CT. Leaders in orthopaedics, sports medicine, and acute emergency treatment of sports injuries and rehabilitation utilizing the latest techniques in orthopaedic care. plancherortho.com.

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19th ESSKA Congress

Kevin D. Plancher, MD, MPH Takes Top Prize at 19th ESSKA Congress

New York and Greenwich, CT
May 11, 2021

While attending the 19th ESSKA Congress May 11-15, 2021, Kevin D. Plancher, MD, MPH and his team received the honor of Best Poster for their study on repairing lateral meniscus tears in patients with anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction ensures low rate of OA compared to lateral meniscectomy at 9-year follow up. The poster provided an overview and four graphics of their study which aimed to determine the incidence of risk of lateral OA in patients after ACLR and to investigate the influence of lateral meniscus repair versus meniscectomy. An abstract of this study was published in The Journal of Arthroscopic and Related Surgery, Volume 37, Issue 1, Supplement, E6-E7, January 1, 2021.

Dr. Plancher also participated in the 19th ESSKA Congress by presenting on May 11th and 12th. His presentations included “Failure rates and functional outcomes of allograft and autograft Bone-Patellar Tendon-Bone (BPTB) anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction in patients < 30 years.” on May 11, 2021 and “How I reconstruct each patient based on individual’s anatomy.” on May 12, 2021.

Kevin D. Plancher, MD, MPH, is a board-certified orthopaedic surgeon and founder of Plancher Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine. He is a Clinical Professor, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Montefiore Medical Center/Albert Einstein College of Medicine in New York. Since 2001, he has been listed annually in the Castle Connolly directory as a “top doctor” in his field.

Plancher Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine is a comprehensive orthopaedics and sports medicine practice with offices in New York City and Greenwich, CT. Leaders in orthopaedics, sports medicine, and acute emergency treatment of sports injuries and rehabilitation utilizing the latest techniques in orthopaedic care. plancherortho.com

ESSKA Congress

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