Joint replacements are very common orthopedic surgeries. People both old and relatively young get these surgeries. Because so many people get the surgery, it has become a safe and routine procedure. If you are planning for a joint replacement, there are a few things you can do to make the surgery go smoother. Here are 4 things you can do to prepare.

1. Get Fit

One of the best things you can do to prepare for the surgery is to get fit. If you are overweight, try to lose some weight before the surgery. This is for many reasons: One being that you will need to have general anesthesia for the surgery. The healthier you are the safer the anesthesia is. Second, if you have less weight on the joints, they will heal faster. Third, you will have good habits, so that after the surgery you can get right back to exercising. This will help your body to accept the new joint, making you heal easier.

2. Stop Smoking and Drinking

Another important part of major surgery is having healthy organs. If you are a smoker or excessive drinker, now is the time to stop. Once again, the general anesthesia can be dangerous for people who have compromised systems. Thus, take care of your body by stopping destructive habits. You will heal easier, and be healthier in the long run.

3. See A Couple Doctors

Getting a joint replacement is a major surgery. It is not something that you should take lightly. For this reason, you should talk to a couple different doctors before you opt for the surgery. You can take your x-rays to multiple doctors to see what they would recommend. If the majority of your specialists say they would do the surgery, then you are in good shape. If there is a lot of dispute as to what the best route is, you may want to wait until you can get better, more definitive answers.

4. Get A Good Support System

Once you do decide to go through with the surgery, it is important that you have a good support system. You shouldn't try and get the surgery done without having plenty of help at home. First, you might need to stay in the hospital for some time after the surgery. Then after you get home, you will not be able to fully move or care for yourself. Thus, you need someone to help at home until you are able. Having this support system set up will help you to heal faster.

By following these suggestions you can heal faster and have a positive experience with your join replacement surgery. 

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