Having orthopedic surgery such as a knee replacement or shoulder surgery can be a stressful event. However, you can and will recover, and your stress and anxiety will often be relieved by focusing on a holistic approach to orthopedic aftercare. You already know that you will have physical therapy and, if needed, pain medications.

But what about the other services that help your entire body and mind heal from a surgical procedure? At Pearl Recovery, we offer a wide range of services to help you recover your mind, body, and soul after orthopedic surgery. Here are some tips for complete recovery that you should keep in mind.

Ask for the Help You Need

After having orthopedic surgery, it will be difficult for you to move around for a while. This can make getting dressing, showering, and even using the bathroom a painful and stressful event. You must ask for (and get) the help you need to continue these everyday activities. You can ask a family member or a close friend to help if you are comfortable doing so. Many people are not comfortable accepting such intimate help from a friend.

However, some do not have anyone close enough to ask. Private duty nursing care is an excellent option to consider. Our staff understands the discomfort you feel and will give you the privacy you want while giving you the assistance you need. Trying to perform activities that you are not ready for can lead to injury and further pain, so please do not do this. After orthopedic surgery, recognize that you need help and do not hesitate to ask for it.

Engage in Self-Care Activities That You Enjoy

Getting the orthopedic aftercare, rest, relaxation, and pampering that your body and mind needs are key for holistic healing success. All guests at Pearl Recovery enjoy a private room with luxury amenities, including (but not limited to):

• A comfortable bed
• A television
• Spa products
• High-speed Internet
• Movie streaming services
• Relaxing indoor games and fun

Think about what you enjoy and plan for those activities. For example, do you like adult coloring books? Maybe you have wanted to do some research to prepare for an upcoming vacation. Perhaps you would like to spend some time reading a novel in the sun. This is the perfect time to dedicate yourself to enjoying these endeavors.

Surround Yourself with Support

You know which people in your circle are most supportive of you and which are not. Surround yourself with those who are positive and who will help you recover. At Pearl Recovery, you can have a guest stay with you for $100 per night. Having a support person nearby can help you feel less anxious and prevent boredom and negative thinking.

After your discharge, you will also feel better if you can have someone you trust nearby as you continue to recuperate from your surgery. Human connection is so crucial during this time, so be sure to take advantage of it.

Boost Your Strength Through Nutrition

You might not be able to cook yourself delicious meals, but that is no reason to start depending on fast food, the vending machine, or processed foods to keep yourself nourished. Pearl Recovery Retreat provides guests with delicious and nutritious in-room dining options that you can order off of a varied menu. Choose healthy foods that you love, such as:

• Fruits
• Vegetables
• Whole grains
• Lean protein sources
• And, of course, sumptuous desserts

It is also worth noting that you will be offered IV therapy filled with nutrients and vitamins that will kick-start the healing process directly after surgery. Once you get home, try to enjoy fresh, whole foods whenever possible. If your support circle can provide fresh meals for you, that is wonderful.

If not, they might be able to fill your refrigerator and freezer with easy-to-prepare foods that you can get for yourself with a minimum of effort. As you get stronger and feel up to cooking, having fresh, delicious ingredients to work with will boost both your physical health and your mood.

Be Sure to Get Moving

Movement and exercise are vital to the recovery process. While you are at Pearl Recovery, your nurses and other staff members will help you get back to moving. It is important to start moving as soon as you can; getting your body moving will help prevent circulation issues and begin the healing process.

Equally important, however, is not overdoing it. Only move the body parts affected by your surgery once your surgeon and medical staff say it is safe for you to do so. If moving is painful, talk to your staff members, but do not put off any recommended exercises. Remember that safe and doctor-recommended movement will boost healing.

In addition to the physical effects of movement, getting some exercise will also keep endorphins (natural “feel good” hormones) moving throughout your body and boost your mood. Exercise can help with any symptoms of depression or anxiety that you might be feeling, too.

Manage Your Expectations

Finally, it would help to remain realistic. Depending on the type of surgery you have had, you might be feeling great in a couple of weeks, or you might still have difficulty even a few months later. Talk to your surgeon in advance and after your procedure, so you know what to expect. If the healing process takes longer than expected, talk to your doctor or nursing staff about it, but try not to get discouraged.

Getting “back to normal” is a very individual process. If you are feeling down about your orthopedic aftercare healing and recovery process, be sure to reach out for help. Getting any mental or spiritual support you need is just as crucial as getting physical therapy to help you regain your muscle strength. Talk to the Pearl Recovery staff to discuss all the orthopedic aftercare options available to you post-surgery.