Recovering from surgery is a process that takes time, consistency, and the right support. Whether you’ve had an orthopedic procedure, joint replacement, or other surgical treatment, a structured rehabilitation plan can significantly improve your recovery and overall quality of life.
At Barrington Orthopedic Specialists, we provide comprehensive rehabilitation care to help patients recover safely, manage pain, and regain strength after orthopedic surgery. Our team is here to guide you through every step of the way. Call us at 847-285-4200 to discuss your recovery needs and develop a personalized plan.
Below, we share five practical and effective tips to help you stay on track, prevent complications, and return to the activities you enjoy.
1. Start Moving Early (As Directed)
One of the most essential post-surgery recovery tips is to begin gentle movement as soon as it's safe, always under the guidance of your healthcare provider. Early mobility plays a vital role in your recovery by helping to:
- Prevent blood clots
- Improve circulation
- Reduce muscle atrophy
- Support the healing process
Depending on your procedure, our physicians may recommend light activity within the first few weeks, such as short walks, basic range-of-motion exercises, or targeted post-surgery exercises designed to keep you moving without strain.
Starting too soon or doing too much can lead to complications. That’s why a structured, progressive plan is essential.
Our physical therapists at BOS create individualised rehabilitation plans based on your procedure, medical history, and personal goals, ensuring a safe, effective path to recovery that helps you return to activity with confidence.
2. Manage Pain Proactively
Managing pain effectively is essential to your recovery. When post-operative pain isn’t controlled, it can limit movement, disrupt sleep, and slow the healing process.
Our team at BOS will recommend pain management strategies that support your recovery goals, including:
- Prescribed pain medication, taken as directed
- Cold therapy to reduce swelling and inflammation
- Gentle, guided movement to relieve stiffness
- Scheduled rest periods between activities
If you're experiencing too much pain or notice unusual symptoms, it’s important to let us know right away.
At BOS, we provide consistent, compassionate care throughout your recovery. We’ll adjust your rehabilitation plan as needed to keep you comfortable, safe, and steadily moving forward.
3. Support Healing with Nutrition and Hydration
What you eat during recovery matters. A balanced diet rich in essential nutrients helps repair tissue, strengthens the immune system, and supports healing from the inside out.
Some of the best foods for surgery recovery include:
- Lean proteins like chicken, fish, and eggs to rebuild muscle and tissue
- Whole grains provide steady, lasting energy
- Fruits and vegetables for key vitamins and antioxidants
- Plenty of water to stay hydrated and support every system in the body
It’s also important to avoid skipping meals, especially if you’re taking medications that may affect your digestive tract. Staying nourished and hydrated supports overall health and can help shorten your recovery period.
We offer guidance on how to make nutritional choices that align with your rehabilitation plan, helping you heal more efficiently and feel your best during recovery.
4. Prevent Complications by Following Instructions
Carefully following your post-surgery instructions is one of the most important ways to avoid setbacks. These guidelines are designed to help you heal properly, reduce your risk of complications, and support a smoother recovery.
Your care plan may include directions on:
- How much physical activity is safe at each stage
- When to resume daily tasks like walking or bathing
- What activities or heavy lifting should be avoided
- When to attend scheduled follow-up appointments
Ignoring these recommendations can lead to issues such as infection, blood clots, or joint stiffness—all of which can delay progress or cause further injury.
At BOS, our team monitors your recovery closely and provides specific instructions based on your procedure and progress. We’re here to guide you through every phase of rehabilitation, helping you avoid complications and move forward with confidence.
5. Stay Consistent and Seek Support
Recovery is not a one-time event; it’s an ongoing process that takes consistency, patience, and often, a strong support system. Staying committed to your rehabilitation plan and following your prescribed exercises each day plays a key role in your long-term progress.
If you find it challenging to stay motivated, involving a family member or friend can make a big difference. Regular communication with your physical therapy team helps ensure your plan stays effective and adapts to your recovery needs.
At BOS, we know that no two recovery journeys are the same. That’s why we design flexible, individualised programs that move at your pace, helping you stay engaged, make steady progress, and feel supported every step of the way.
Let Barrington Orthopedic Specialists Support Your Recovery
With the right care and consistent habits, post-surgical healing becomes a safer and more confident experience. These five strategies are here to guide you, and our team at Barrington Orthopedic Specialists is ready to support your journey every step of the way.
To schedule an appointment at our Rehabilitation Department, contact us at 847 885-0078. We look forward to serving you!
