Central Florida

Total hip replacement is a procedure that replaces a worn-out or damaged hip joint with artificial parts, known as a prosthesis. These parts are made from strong, durable materials such as metal, plastic or ceramic. The goal of the surgery is to reduce pain, improve movement, and help you return to everyday activities with greater comfort.

Total hip replacement at UF Health Central Florida

Thank you for choosing the UF Health Central Florida Orthopedics Joint Center. Your care team includes some of the region’s leading experts—orthopedic surgeons, physicians, nurse practitioners, physician assistants, anesthesia providers, nurses, physical and occupational therapists, an orthopedic navigator, surgery schedulers and a nurse manager. Each member of your team is committed to delivering the highest quality care with compassion and excellence. From your first appointment through recovery, we’ll be by your side—supporting your comfort, safety and healing.

A collaborative decision for your care

After reviewing your medical history, evaluating your hip and considering your overall health, your physician has recommended surgery as the next step toward relief. This recommendation is based on the severity of your pain, your level of mobility, and how your condition is affecting your daily life. The decision to move forward with hip replacement surgery is an important one — and it should be made together. We encourage open discussion between you, your orthopedic surgeon, and your family to ensure you feel confident, supported and fully informed every step of the way.

You’re not alone. We’re here to help.

At UF Health Central Florida, your care journey is guided by a dedicated orthopedic care team — experts committed to supporting you every step of the way. From diagnosis through recovery, your team will:

• Coordinate your Pre-operative Joint Replacement Education Class
• Educate you on your diagnosis, treatment options, and recovery
• Serve as your link to the broader care team
• Provide reassurance and answer questions before and after surgery

As part of your preparation, you will need to complete our Pre-operative Joint Replacement Education Class, offered in-person and online. This class helps you feel informed and confident, introduces your care team and provides time for questions.

Our shared goal

We aim to deliver exceptional, personalized care using the latest techniques to:

• Relieve your pain
• Improve joint stability
• Restore independence
• Ensure long-lasting results

You’re in expert hands — and we’re honored to be part of your journey.

Hip anatomy

To understand why hip replacement surgery may be beneficial or necessary, it’s important to know the basic anatomy of your hip and how it can change.

A healthy hip

The hip is one of the body’s largest weight-bearing joints. It functions as a ball-and-socket joint: the ball is formed by the head of the thigh bone (femur), which fits into the socket (acetabulum) of the pelvis. In a healthy hip, the surfaces of both the ball and socket are covered with smooth cartilage. This cartilage allows the joint to move easily and painlessly, enabling walking, bending and other daily activities.

A damaged hip

Many people who experience hip pain are affected by osteoarthritis, the most common form of arthritis. Often referred to as a “wear and tear” condition, osteoarthritis leads to the gradual breakdown of cartilage in the joint. As the cartilage wears away, the joint surfaces become rough and uneven, causing pain with movement. Eventually, the bones in the joint may rub directly against each other — known as bone-on-bone contact — which results in stiffness, chronic pain, inflammation and decreased range of motion. For some, even basic activities like walking, standing or getting out of a chair become challenging.

Osteoarthritis risk factors

The risk for developing osteoarthritis in the hip is influenced by many factors, including age, gender, and inherited traits that affect joint shape, alignment and overall stability. A previous hip injury or repetitive stress on the joint — whether from work, sports or carrying excess weight — can also contribute to developing osteoarthritis.

What happens during surgery?

Your orthopedic surgeon will begin by making an incision to access the hip joint. The damaged ball (femoral head) is removed and replaced with a metal stem and ball component, while the damaged socket (acetabulum) is reshaped and fitted with a new cup. Finally, the incision is closed using staples or medical adhesive and covered with a sterile bandage to protect the area as healing begin.

Frequently asked questions

When can I walk after surgery?

The goal is to get up and walk with a front wheeled rolling walker the day of surgery. Early ambulation has been shown to reduce the risk of complications following surgery and is an important part of your recovery.

How long will I be in the hospital?

Once you are medically and surgically cleared, you’ll be ready to go home — most patients are able to go home the same day as surgery. Please make sure your coach or support person is available to provide transportation on your discharge day. You will be discharged once you have been cleared by the orthopedic surgical team. In addition, your physical therapy goals must be met, and your pain should be well controlled. Our team will make sure you are safe, comfortable and ready for the next step in your recovery.

What if I live alone?

A safe and supported home environment is key to a smooth recovery. You may return home after surgery once you can safely get in and out of bed and walk a short distance using a rolling walker. To help ensure your success, it’s important to have a friend or family member available to assist you during the first few days of recovery.

What equipment will I need at home?

You will need a 2 wheeled rolling walker and you may also need a bedside commode. The bedside commode can be used to increase the height of your toilet, or as a seat in the shower.

Where do I go when I’m discharged from the hospital?

Most patients return home with home health services a few days a week. The surgeon, therapist, nurse, orthopedic navigator and case manager will assist you to determine the best discharge plan.

Will the surgery be painful?

Pain management after hip replacement has improved significantly over the years. Thanks to advances like regional nerve blocks, spinal anesthesia, and other modern techniques, most patients experience much better pain control than in the past. In addition, early movement and rehabilitation are key parts of your recovery and help reduce stiffness and discomfort. While it’s unlikely to be completely pain-free, we’re committed to helping you manage your pain effectively. Together, we will set a realistic pain goal and manage your pain with the medications your surgeon has ordered.

Will I need therapy when I get home?

When you return home, you may receive either home health physical therapy or begin outpatient physical therapy — your care team will decide which option is best for you. Both options are designed to support your recovery and help you regain your strength and mobility safely. Every patient heals at their own pace, and your therapy plan will be tailored to meet your individual needs and progress.

What are advanced directives?

It is a means of communicating the patient’s wishes regarding health care. Living will provides written instructions explaining your health care wishes if you are unable to communicate. Medical power of attorney or health care surrogate — a designated individual that can make medical decisions if you are incapacitated.

Preparing for surgery with confidence

At UF Health Central Florida, we understand that preparing for surgery can feel overwhelming. Our goal is to help you feel informed, confident and ready — every step of the way. This resource provides clear information about what to expect before, during, and after surgery, along with helpful tips and checklists for you and your loved ones. Whether you’re getting ready at home or recovering afterward, we’re here to support you throughout the process.

Preparation for your total hip replacement begins at the time of your surgical consultation. From that point forward, it’s important to closely follow all instructions to help ensure a safe procedure and a smooth recovery.

Start by performing your recommended pre-operative exercises. If you smoke, you must stop as soon as possible — quitting significantly improves healing and lowers the risk of complications.

You will also need to stop taking certain medications and supplements that can increase bleeding risk. This includes anti-inflammatory medications such as ibuprofen (Advil®, Motrin®), naproxen (Aleve®), celecoxib (Celebrex®), meloxicam (Mobic®) and aspirin. You should also avoid supplements like Vitamin E, Fish Oil and most herbal products. Your doctor will provide specific guidance on when and how to stop these medications.

If you are taking a blood thinner — such as warfarin (Coumadin®), apixaban (Eliquis®) or rivaroxaban (Xarelto®) — you will receive special instructions from your doctor for stopping these medications. Additionally, be sure to notify your dentist about your upcoming surgery, as it may affect certain dental procedures.

Optimize nutrition

Iron is an important mineral for your body to make hemoglobin. Hemoglobin is important because it’s part of the blood that carries oxygen. If your hemoglobin is low, then you may feel fatigued. It is important to increase your iron and protein intake before and after surgery. Eating foods high in Vitamin C with iron rich foods can help your body absorb iron.

Iron rich food:

• Red meat
• Egg yolks
• Dark green leafy vegetables
• Iron rich cereals
• Beans, lentils
• Dried fruit
• Liver
• Watermelon
• Baked potato
• Turkey - dark meat

Protein rich food:

• Egg
• Red and white meat
• Turkey
• Chicken
• Fish
• Cheese
• Low/nonfat milk
• Beans
• Nuts/seeds
• Soy protein

Exercises

It is important to be flexible and to be physically prepared before having a total joint replacement. The exercises in this guide should take about 15-20 minutes and it is recommended that you complete them two times a day. It is also important for you to strengthen your arms by doing arm chair push-ups since you will be relying on them to support you when using the walker. DO NOT do any exercise that is too painful or you are unable to perform.

Before Surgery: We encourage you to do 20 repetitions twice daily of exercise numbers one through six. Be sure to do these on both legs. If any exercise causes sharp or shooting pain, do not do that particular exercise. It is normal to feel achy afterwards; you are exercising muscles you may not be used to using.

After Surgery: Continue to do the six exercises. Your physical therapist will be adding more exercises as you progress.

Please note: Be sure to do exercises in bed or a recliner chair (do not do them on the floor).

Exercise #1

Ankle Pumps: This can be done lying on your back with your knees straight or elevated. This also, can be done in your recliner chair.

Movement: Slowly make up and down motions with your feet or point and flex your foot.

Tip: Continue doing ankle pumps until you are walking as much as you were before surgery. Start doing them again if you are on a long care trip.

Exercise #2

Quad Sets: This can be done lying down or partially sitting up with your surgical leg straight. This can be done with a towel roll under your knee or with nothing under your knee.

Movement: Keep your legs out straight and toes pointed up. Tighten the muscles in the front of your thigh and press your knee down. Hold for a count of 5, and then relax.

Tip: Keep the back of your thigh and buttock relaxed.

Exercise #3

Glute Sets: Begin lying on your back with your hands resting comfortably.

Movement: Tighten your buttocks by squeezing together, hold for a count of 5, and then relax.

Tip: Make sure not to arch your low back during the exercise or hold your breath as you tighten your muscles.

Exercise #4

Heel Slides: Begin lying on your back with your legs straight.

Movement: Slide one heel toward your buttocks, bending your knee as far as is comfortable, and then slide it back to the starting position and repeat.

Tip: Make sure to keep your back flat against the bed during the exercise. Keep your knee away from the mid-line.

Exercise #5

Short Arc Quads: This can be done lying with your head in an upright position.

Movement: Place a rolled towel (about 8” diameter) under the leg. Straighten knee and leg. Hold straight for 5 count. Tip: Work for full extension (straightening) of the knee.

Exercise #6

Long Arc Quads: This can be done sitting upright in your chair.

Movement: slowly straighten operated leg and try to hold it for 5 sec. Bend knee, taking foot under the chair.

Tip: Completely straighten knee. Do NOT bend forward at the hip.

Preparing your home

Undergoing surgery can be a very stressful event for anyone. Preparing your home prior to surgery will make the transition from hospital to home easier.

Do simple things, such as the following:

• Place frequently used items within reach on the countertop or in cabinets that don’t require reaching or bending.
• Make sure stair railings are not loose.
• Put clean linens on your bed.
• Prepare and freeze meals that can be easily heated.
• Remove throw rugs.
• Make sure you have clear paths that you can navigate with a walker.
• Make sure you have adequate light in the bedroom, bathroom and hallways. Install night-lights as needed.

Packing for your stay

Prior to your stay, you will want to pack your belongings. Some items that you may need to bring include:

• Rubber soled/non-skid shoes or closed back slippers
• Dentures, hearing aids with extra batteries, eye glasses and eye glasses case
• Loose fitting comfortable clothing for therapy (shorts/sweatpants)
• Personal toiletries and grooming items (toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant etc.)
• CPAP machine with tubing and mask
• Please DO NOT bring valuables
• If you choose to bring a cell phone, remember your charger

Before surgery

What not to do

• Do not eat, drink or chew anything after midnight the night before your surgery, unless your surgeon gives you different instructions. This includes gum, mints, and ice chips.
• You may take approved medications the morning of surgery with a small sip of water, if instructed by your care team.
• Do not bring any valuables with you.
• Do not shave your legs or groin area.
• Do not apply lotions, creams, powders or deodorants.

What to do

• Two days before surgery, wash your hair and rinse it well. Then shower with Hibiclens as directed.
• Wear freshly washed pajamas.
• Sleep on freshly laundered sheets.
• Avoid tobacco and alcohol for at least 48 hours before surgery. Ideally, stop smoking at least 3 weeks before your procedure and refrain from restarting for at least 3 weeks afterward to support healing.
• Have your hospital bag ready to go.
• Bring a complete list of your medications, including names and dosages.

Pre-admission

Prior to your surgery you will be contacted by a pre-admission nurse to review your past medical and surgical history, your home medications, and provide you with pre-operative instructions. If additional testing and lab work is needed before your surgery, a pre-admission visit will also be scheduled by the pre-surgical center at UF Health Central Florida. The pre-admission nurse will call you the afternoon before your surgery to inform you of your arrival time at the hospital.

The day of surgery

Arrival instructions

You will be asked to arrive at the hospital approximately two hours before your scheduled surgery. Please report to the appropriate check-in location based on where your procedure is being performed:

UF Health Leesburg Hospital: Check in at the Ambulatory Services Desk located in the front atrium.

UF Health Spanish Plaines Hospital: Check in at the Advanced Surgery Center reception desk.

Please bring the following items with you:

• A photo ID
• Your insurance cards
• A copy of your Living Will, Advance Directive, and/or Healthcare Surrogate (if applicable)
• A complete list of all medications you are currently taking — including over-the-counter drugs, vitamins and herbal supplements — along with dosages and the times you take them

Prepare for surgery

Once you’re checked in, a pre-operative nurse will meet with you to review and verify your personal health and admission information. This ensures everything is in order before your procedure begins. You will be asked to change into a hospital gown and remove all personal clothing. An intravenous (IV) line will be started, and monitors will be placed to track your heart rate, blood pressure, and oxygen levels. Blood work may also be drawn at this time.

Before surgery, your orthopedic surgeon will meet with you to confirm the surgical site and procedure. You will also speak with your anesthesiologist, who will review your anesthesia options and work with you to determine the safest and most appropriate plan. During your procedure, the anesthesiologist will remain with you and closely monitor your condition throughout surgery.

Recovery

After your procedure, you will be taken to the Post Anesthesia Care Unit (PACU) where nurses will closely monitor your vital signs as you wake up. Most patients stay in the PACU for 1–2 hours until fully awake and stable. If you’re staying overnight, you will then move to the Joint Center. If you’re going home the same day, you’ll remain in recovery until cleared for discharge. Your care team will assist with pain management, mobility, education, and discharge planning. To help achieve the best recovery, be prepared to get out of bed with assistance immediately following your surgery.

Pain management

It is normal to experience some pain as you recover from surgery. The goal of your interdisciplinary care team is to manage your pain effectively so you can participate in your physical therapy evaluation on the day of surgery. We are committed to working with you to keep your pain well controlled. Because each person experiences pain differently, you will be asked to rate your pain on a scale from 0 to 10 — where 0 means no pain and 10 indicates the worst pain imaginable. The pain scale (see next page) helps you and your nurse monitor changes in your pain level. Please keep track of your pain and inform your care team if you feel you need additional medication. Pain medication is prescribed on an as-needed basis. Before surgery, we will work with you to establish a personal pain goal—this is the level of pain that you believe is acceptable, allowing you to be comfortable, while understanding that some pain is expected. The goal is to maintain a level of pain control that allows you to rest and actively participate in your daily activities and physical therapy.

Understanding and communicating pain levels after surgery

Understanding your pain control options can sometimes feel overwhelming. We use a universal pain scale from 0 to 10 to help you describe the intensity of your pain. This scale helps you and your care team assess how well your pain is being managed. It’s important to let your nurse know when your pain reaches a level of 3 or 4 — this gives us time to intervene before it becomes more severe. See the pain scale below for reference.

Important: You must let your nurse know early if you are having pain so they can intervene early to provide you with the best pain relief.

What to expect after surgery

Incentive spirometer

You will be given an incentive spirometer to work on deep breathing and coughing to prevent pneumonia. We ask that you complete that 10 times every hour that you are awake. To use the incentive spirometer, place the mouthpiece in your mouth, take a slow, steady deep breath in through your mouth and hold as long as you can. Let that breath out slowly. The indicator (piston) will rise as you breathe in; try to raise it as high as you can. There is another smaller chamber with a disc. Your goal is to make sure the disc stays in the middle of the chamber while you breathe in.

Deep breathing

Take a deep breath in through your nose and hold it for 5-10 seconds. Let that breath out slowly like you are blowing out a candle.

Preventing blood clots

After your surgery you will wear both anti-embolism stockings (TED hose) and sequential compression devices (SCD). These assist with blood circulation and the prevention of blood clots. It is important for you to begin ankle pump exercises. TED hose are elastic white stockings that should be worn everyday until you return to your follow up visit with your orthopedic surgeon. Notify your surgeon if you notice increased pain and swelling in either leg.

Blood thinner medication

You will be given a blood thinner to help avoid blood clots in your legs. The length of your treatment will be determined by your surgeon. The medication may be in pill or shot form (a tiny needle that goes into the abdomen). Take this medication for as long as directed by your physician. This can be anywhere from two weeks to three months after your joint replacement. Contact your doctor right away if you notice easy bruising, nose bleeds, or blood in your urine/stool.

Out of bed activity

Each morning following the day of your surgery, we will assist you out of bed, with bathing/dressing, and into a recliner. When in the recliner, your surgical leg should be elevated as much as possible to decrease swelling. We encourage you to dress in comfortable clothing.

Therapy in the hospital

The focus of therapy in the hospital is preparing you for your return home. You will be seen by a physical therapist the day of your surgery, and participate in physical therapy twice a day, each day, until you are discharged. You will also be seen by an occupational therapist.

You will be educated on a home exercise program and are asked to work on your exercises when not in therapy.

Preventing and recognizing potential complications

After surgery, it’s important to be aware of potential complications and know how to respond if symptoms arise. The earlier problems are identified, the easier they are to treat—and your awareness plays a big role in your recovery.

Blood clots in the legs (DVT – Deep Vein Thrombosis)

After surgery, blood flow in your legs may slow down, which can increase the risk of thickening/ blood clot formation in a deep vein, most commonly in the lower leg or thigh. This is called a deep vein thrombosis (DVT).

How to help prevent DVT:

• Wear your compression stockings (TED hose) as directed at home.
• Elevate your leg above heart level for short periods throughout the day.
• Take your prescribed blood thinner exactly as instructed.
• Walk and move regularly—even short walks help improve circulation.
• Perform ankle pump exercises several times a day.

Contact your surgeon right away if you notice any of the following signs or symptoms:

• Pain or excessive tenderness in your leg or calf
• Redness in the calf
• Increased swelling in your foot, ankle, calf or thigh that does not improve with elevation

Blood clots in the lungs (Pulmonary Embolism)

A pulmonary embolism can occur when a blood clot from the leg travels to the lungs. This is a serious medical emergency and requires immediate care.

How to reduce your risk:

• Follow all steps to prevent DVT (blood clots in the legs)
• Recognize and report any signs of blood clots to your physician immediately

Call 911 immediately if you experience any of the following signs or symptoms:

• Sudden shortness of breath
• Chest pain, especially with deep breathing
• Fast or difficulty breathing
• Coughing up blood
• Unexplained anxiety or restlessness, especially with breathing

Infection

Keeping your incision clean and protecting your body from infection is an essential part of healing after surgery.

Hand hygiene is the most important step in preventing infection. Wash your hands frequently (or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer)—especially before any form of dressing changes. Keep your incision dry.

Eating a healthy diet and drinking plenty of water will also help your body heal and prevent infection. Your surgeon recommends taking antibiotics before you undergo future dental procedures or invasive medical procedures to prevent infection in your joint. Be sure to discuss this at your first post-operative visit.

Contact your surgeon right away if you notice any of the following signs or symptoms::

• Increased redness, warmth or swelling around the incision
• Drainage from the incision that is increasing or has a foul smell
• New or worsening joint pain
• A persistent fever above 101° F or chills

If you believe you have an infection somewhere else in your body — such as your bladder, sinuses, or tooth —please contact your primary care provider right away.

Discharge from the hospital

Congratulations — you’re going home! While your recovery journey isn’t over yet, you’ve already made great progress. As you return home, take a deep breath and remember: the full benefits of your new hip will come with time, movement, and continued care.

Planning

Your care team — including your orthopedic providers and case manager — will work with you to create a personalized discharge plan that supports a safe and successful recovery at home.

Goals for discharge

Before leaving the hospital, the following physical goals should be met to help ensure a smooth transition home:

• Get in and out of bed safely
• Get in and out of a chair safely
• Understand any movement precautions specific to your surgery
• Demonstrate your home exercise program
• Walk a functional distance using a walker
• Climb stairs safely, if needed at home

Equipment you will use

To support your recovery and keep you safe, you may need:

• A front-wheeled walker (with two wheels) to help with walking
• An elevated toilet seat or bedside commode, which can also be used as a shower chair

Your care team will help ensure you have the right equipment in place before you leave the hospital.

Incision care/dressing changes

If you are receiving home health services, your nurse will manage your dressing changes according to your surgeon’s instructions. Some swelling around the incision is normal, especially after completing your daily exercises. However, if you notice any redness, warmth, unusual odor, increased drainage or if the incision begins to open, contact your surgeon’s office right away. In most cases, staples are removed by a healthcare professional between eight to fourteen days after surgery. If Prineo (a surgical adhesive dressing) was used, it is typically removed around fourteen days after your procedure during your follow-up visit with your surgeon.

Diet

Good nutrition is important to promote your recovery and the healing of your surgical incision. Choose a diet with a range of fruit, vegetables, grains, dairy and meat. Iron-rich foods include lean meat, shellfish, whole-grain foods and green vegetables. Be sure to include foods high in fiber and drink plenty of water to prevent constipation. If constipation occurs, you can use a laxative or stool softener as needed. Increasing protein intake before and after surgery can support the healing process. Occasionally, patients experience loss of appetite following surgery. This is normal. Your appetite will return over time with increased activity.

Coping with stress

Undergoing surgery can be very stressful for anyone. Find support through friends and family to help you through your healing and rehabilitation process. Set realistic goals and keep a positive outlook. Make note of small achievements. Deep breathing and other relaxation techniques can also help to lessen your stress. Don’t forget to ask for help when you need it.

Pain medication and management

Few people are pain free when they leave the hospital. Expect to take pain medication for the first couple of weeks. You will be given a pain medication prescription for home. It is important to take you pain medication as prescribed by your surgeon and with food to avoid an upset stomach. You should take your pain medication about 30 minutes before your planned therapy/ exercise session. Remember, don’t wait until discomfort has set in before taking your medication and do not drink alcohol or drive while taking pain medication. As you have less discomfort, start to decrease the amount of pain medication you are taking and how often you are taking them.

Eventually, you will no longer need pain medication. It is common to feel most discomfort when lying in bed at night or when sitting for several hours. It is recommended that you try to change your position every 45 minutes during the day to avoid stiffness, and you may need to take pain medicine before bed to help you sleep through the night. Numbness around the incision may be temporary or permanent. Contact your surgeon if your discomfort does not respond to the above methods.

Contact your surgeon if your discomfort does not respond to the above methods.

The importance of lifetime follow-up visits

Post-surgical physical therapy and exercise are vital to the success of your recovery from total hip replacement surgery. It is also important to keep in contact with your physician.

When should you follow up with your surgeon?

• Every year, unless instructed differently by your surgeon
• Anytime you have mild pain for longer than a week
• Anytime you have moderate or severe pain

It is important to have follow up x-rays. The x-rays will be compared to previous x-rays to make sure there aren’t changes that need to be addressed by your surgeon.

It is in your best interest to read this information carefully. Your understanding of this material and how it relates to your plan of care is vital to a successful recovery.

How to reduce the risk of hip dislocation after surgery

It is very important to follow your hip precautions after surgery.

After hip replacement surgery, you will work with physical therapy to learn which hip precautions to follow. Hip precautions may vary per surgeon and the surgical approach used.

Posterior hip precautions

• No bending at the waist past 90 degrees
• Do not cross your legs at the knee or ankle level
• Do not twist on your operative leg
• Avoid turning toes inward

Anterior hip precautions

• Avoid excessive hip extension
• Do not step backwards with the surgical leg
• Avoid turning your surgical leg outwards

Recommended nutrition

Your body needs to be well-nourished to heal bones, muscles and skin that are affected by surgery. The nutrients from food provide us with the strength, energy and ability to heal. People who are well-nourished overall are less likely to develop an infection and may heal faster. Work on incorporating the following important nutrients into your diet before and after surgery.

Protein

Protein contains all the essential amino acids to aid in wound healing and keeps your immune system strong. Protein is not just for muscle building. It is a key nutrient in bone building.

Iron

Iron is an important mineral for your body to make hemoglobin. Hemoglobin is a part of the blood that carries oxygen. It is important to increase your iron intake before and after surgery. Eating foods high in Vitamin C with iron-rich food can help your body absorb iron.

Calcium and Vitamin D

Calcium and Vitamin D are nutrients associated with healthy bones. All milk is fortified with Vitamin D to help absorb calcium. Yogurt is also a good source of calcium, but is not always fortified with Vitamin D, so check the nutrition label.

Calcium- & Vitamin D-rich food includes low-fat dairy, like milk and yogurt.

Fiber

Make sure to consume fiber-rich foods prior to and after surgery to avoid constipation (unless directed differently by your physician). It is important to increase your fiber intake slowly to avoid gas and bloating. Adequate fluid intake is also very important

if you are increasing your fiber intake to avoid adverse effects. Prunes or prune juice (along with drinking plenty of water) have a natural laxative effect that can alleviate constipation while on pain medications. Fiber-rich food include whole grains, bran, fruits, vegetables, beans, and lentils.

Water

Drink at least 8 glasses of water or other calorie-free beverages per day to help with the prevention of constipation. Adequate hydration will also help to promote healing.

Vitamin C

Vitamin C is needed to make a protein called collagen and is needed for repairing tendons, ligaments and healing surgical wounds.

Vitamin C-rich food includes citrus fruits, strawberries, kiwi, baked potatoes, broccoli, and bell peppers.

Zinc

Zinc is also important for wound healing. Zinc is a mineral found mostly in animal foods. It is better to get zinc from foods than supplements.

Zinc-rich food includes meat, fish, poultry, dairy, and wholegrain foods.

Meat and alternatives

1 serving equals:

• 2 to 3 oz meat, poultry or fish
• ½ cup beans
• ½ cup tofu
• 2 tablespoons peanut butter

Milk and alternatives

1 serving equals:

• 1 cup milk or soy beverage
• 1 cup yogurt

Your Orthopedic Navigator

Your guide through surgery

An Orthopedic Navigator is a specially trained nurse or healthcare professional who works closely with your surgical team. Their main goal is to support you before, during, and after your surgery to ensure a smooth and safe recovery.

What does the Orthopedic Navigator Do?

• Presurgical Education: They will help you understand what to expect before, during, and after surgery.
• Coordinating Your Care: The navigator works behind the scenes to help ensure all parts of your care plan are in place.
• Being Your Go-To Resource: Have questions about what to eat before surgery? Wondering what to expect during your hospital stay? Your orthopedic navigator is here to answer these kinds of questions.

Why it matters

Having a consistent point of contact helps reduce stress and confusion. Studies show that patients who are supported by an orthopedic navigator often feel more prepared and recover more confidently.

How to reach them

You will usually meet your navigator during a pre-operative class or hospital visit. You will also be given their contact information in case you need help or have questions throughout the process.

Your Coach

A key part of your recovery team

Recovering from orthopedic surgery is a team effort – and one of the most important team members is your Coach. This is someone you choose to support and assist you through the healing process.

What is a Coach?

A Coach is a family member, friend, or trusted caregiver who helps you prepare for surgery, supports you in the hospital, and assists you once you’re home. They do NOT need medical experience – just a willingness to learn and help.

The Coach’s Role

• Before Surgery: - Attend pre-operate education class with you - Help you remember important instructions and prepare your home
• During Surgery / Hospital Stay: - Be present for discharge instructions - Learn how to assist with mobility, wound care, and medications - Ask questions and take notes to help you feel more confident
• After You’re Home: - Assist with daily tasks and mobility - Encourage you to follow your care plan - Watch for signs or complications and contact your care team if needed

Why having a coach matters

Patients who have an engaged and informed coach often feel more confident and recover faster. A coach helps you stay motivated, safe, and on track during a critical time in your healing process.

Choosing the right coach

Pick someone reliable, supportive, and available. Ideally, they should be able to assist you for the first few days to weeks after surgery when help is most needed.

Discharge checklist for Coach

• Know what blood thinner your friend or family member will be taking at home and any monitoring requirements.
• If there is a surgical dressing, know when it will need to be changed and who will change it.
• Understand the signs and symptoms of infection.
• Know how to assist your friend or family member with TED hose, if needed
• Know how to safely assist your friend or family member in and out of bed.
• Encourage your friend or family member to complete their home exercise program.
• Know how to assist your friend or family member up and down stairs, if needed.

Know your hip zones

Daily check

• Continue to take your medications as prescribed
• Do you exercises as instructed by your therapists
• Eat a balanced diet
• Apply cold therapy as directed
• Follow your hip precautions as instructed
• Walk several times a day using your walker as instructed
• Continue doing your breathing exercises

Green zone

Your symptoms are under control if:

• Incision is clean and there is minimal to no damage
• Able to bear weight on the surgical leg
• Pain is controlled with medication
• Able to complete exercises and activities of daily living
• You're not experiencing shortness of breath, chest pain, or fever

Yellow zone

Call the surgeon's office if:

• Have more swelling or pain than normal since surgery
• Experience calf tenderness, swelling, or warmth in either leg
• Have drainage, redness, or odor at the incision site
• Have fever greater than 101
• Unable to walk or put weight on your leg
• You notice excessive bruising or bleeding

Call your primary care office if:

• You are having nose bleeds, bleeding from your gums, or see blood in your urine or stool
• It is difficult to urinate
• If you are unable to have a bowel movement for three consecutive days or longer

Red zone

If you experience any of the following:

• Severe shortness of breath at rest or sudden weezing
• Pale, gray, or blue skin color
• Chest pain
• Coughing up blood
• Rapid heart rate
• Trouble speaking
• Numbness or weakness in face, arm, or leg
• Severe headache
• Sudden vision trouble and/or confusion

If in RED ZONE, call 911. Do not drive yourself to the emergency department.