Post-Operative Care
Recover and Regain Strength After Surgery
Orthopedic surgery is the light at the end of the tunnel for many people with chronic joint pain. It offers the promise of restored mobility, reduced pain, and a return to the activities that make life enjoyable. The procedure itself, however, is only the first step in a much longer journey.
The success of a hip replacement, knee surgery, or spinal correction depends heavily on what happens after you leave the operating room. At The Bradford Skilled Nursing & Rehabilitation, we are proud to offer outstanding orthopedic surgery recovery support.
What Orthopedic Surgery Recovery Involves
Recovery is rarely a straight line. It is a process that includes good days, challenging days, and gradual milestones. Broadly, orthopedic surgery recovery focuses on three main goals: healing the surgical site, managing pain and inflammation, and restoring function.
The timeline for these goals varies depending on age, overall health, and the specific procedure. Our team stays at your side every step of the way, guiding you through post-operative care.
Surgeries We Support
Our post-operative services are well suited to a range of orthopedic procedures:
- Joint replacement surgery, where rehabilitation is active and begins almost immediately because these surgeries involve weight-bearing joints.
- Knee replacement surgery, with physical therapy that can start as soon as the day of surgery to manage pain, relieve swelling, and rebuild strength.
- Hip replacement surgery, where patients learn to move differently and use assistive devices to protect their new joint.
- Spinal surgery, which requires a careful balance of mobility and restriction as you adapt to daily life with minimal bending, lifting, and twisting.
Compassionate, Expert Care
Choosing where to recover is a significant decision that affects your comfort and often the speed of your recovery. In addition to world-class skilled nursing services, we offer:
- Continuity of care: we communicate directly with your other healthcare providers to follow their specific recovery instructions.
- Modern therapy: our team has the tools and knowledge to help you safely regain strength and balance.
- Comfortable amenities: a healing environment should be restful and welcoming, so expect a home-like atmosphere throughout your stay.
What to Expect During Your Recovery
Preparing for surgery can be stressful, but knowing what lies ahead can ease the fear of the unknown. Here is what you can expect from our post-operative care:
- The initial move-in, when recovery measures begin almost right away. The first few days can be intense, but your effort is worth it.
- The thick of recovery, when after a few weeks things start to feel closer to normal and your range of motion noticeably improves.
- Long-term recovery, which for some patients is a months-long process. We are here for you as long as you need us.
FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions About Post-Operative Care
When does rehabilitation begin after orthopedic surgery?
For many procedures, gentle rehabilitation starts within a day of surgery. Early movement, guided by the care team, helps manage pain and swelling and supports a stronger recovery.
How long does recovery from a joint replacement take?
Recovery time varies with age, overall health, and the procedure. Some patients regain function in a few weeks, while others need several months of continued therapy and support.
What is recovery after spinal surgery like?
Spinal surgery recovery requires a careful balance of mobility and restriction. Patients often learn to go about daily life with minimal bending, lifting, and twisting while gradually rebuilding strength.
Does Medicare cover post-surgical rehabilitation in a skilled nursing facility?
Medicare often covers post-surgical rehabilitation when conditions are met, such as a qualifying hospital stay and a physician order for skilled care. An admissions team can review eligibility before a stay.
Request a Tour Today
Planning for surgery involves many moving parts, and your recovery plan should be rock solid. If you or a loved one is preparing for an orthopedic procedure, we invite you to see what sets our care apart. The Bradford Skilled Nursing & Rehabilitation is dedicated to high-level post-operative orthopedic care designed to get you back on your feet.
Come see for yourself
Our discharge rate is higher than the national average. And our beautiful, comfortable surroundings make guests feel right at home. Come see what makes The Bradford Skilled Nursing & Rehabilitation so special.