Preparing for and recovering from orthopedic surgery
Orthopedic surgery can be a highly effective tool for treating pain and getting you back to the activities you love. Before you have surgery, it's important to take time to learn about the procedure and understand your role in making it a success.
On this page you'll find resources that can help you learn how to get ready for surgery and what you can do to make sure your recovery goes smoothly.
Virtual Pre-Op Orthopedic Clinic
The video below is intended for people scheduled to have an elective joint replacement surgery on the hip, knee or shoulder. The video provides general information about what to expect and how best to prepare for surgery to ensure that you have a smooth, successful recovery and an excellent outcome. Important topics covered in the video include exercise, pain management and prevention of complications.
It is important that we know that you have viewed this video before your surgery.
Please complete the Pre-op Education Video Acknowledgement Form after you have watched the video in its entirety.
Strengthening exercises
Exercising is important both before and after surgery. Remember: Your surgeon can give you a new joint, but only you are the one who can make it move. The videos below illustrate exercises you can do at home.
Precautions after surgery
The types of precautions you need to take after surgery will depend on the procedure you had. The videos below will help remind you of the detailed instructions you were given by your health care team.