Staying Positive Post-Op
A positive frame of mind can speed up your recovery from an orthopedic procedure. Try these techniques to make your return to active life more enjoyable.
After receiving a new joint, it takes time and effort to regain functionality and find your new normal. These positivity-boosting strategies can help keep your eyes forward and your spirits lifted as you walk the road to recovery.
- Build a Support System. Before surgery, gather a team of friends, neighbors and family members who can help you with daily tasks around the house, running errands and making it to appointments.
- Set Goals. Work with your doctor and rehabilitation team, and set realistic short- and long-term goals. Keeping goals in mind helps you focus on the big picture instead of the hurdles you may have to overcome each day.
- Stay Busy. A busy mind will help combat boredom and boost your mood while your body recovers. Social interaction can help boost morale, which research suggests may improve the speed at which you heal.
- Get Out. Make plans to get out of the house for something other than physical therapy. A change of scenery can be refreshing. Try visiting a busy park or shopping center, take a scenic drive with a good friend or visit a bench at a beautiful outdoor space.
- Keep Track. Make a point of checking in with yourself weekly. Use this time to note any changes in your abilities and check on how you are feeling both mentally and physically.
- Celebrate Successes. There will be a lot of milestones along the path to rehabilitation. Celebrate them as they come by doing something special for yourself or with those that have been helping you reach them.