If you’re preparing to undergo a joint replacement procedure, much of the attention in regards to your surgery and recovery is focused on your physical health. What the surgical scar will be like, how pain will be managed, and how to make the strongest recovery with physical therapy will be common topics in your pre-op consults.
However, there’s another side to surgery and recovery, and that’s the psychological component. Joint replacement surgery is a major undertaking for you, your body and your mental health, and being aware of this psychological impact can help to prevent certain problems that can develop if you’re not careful. In today’s blog, we spotlight some potential psychological issues that can arise following joint replacement surgery, and we share some tips for preventing them.
The Mental Side Of Shoulder Replacement
Shoulder replacement surgery can greatly reduce your pain and improve overall shoulder function, but this process won’t happen overnight. You’ll face challenges along the way, and that can place a burden on your mental wellbeing. Here’s a look at some of the issues we work to prevent and effectively manage with our patients who are considering shoulder replacement surgery.
- Anxiety/Depression– It’s incredibly common to feel anxious or nervous about your shoulder replacement procedure. These feelings don’t always subside the moment you’re off the operating table, either. Patients may be anxious about their recovery, or find that the rehab process is a bit more isolating than they expected because they can’t partake in certain social activities for a while, and that can contribute to feelings of anxiety and depression. Come into surgery knowing that it’s going to take time but it all will be worth it in the end. Also make it a point to stay connected with others during your recovery period. Even if that’s just a phone call with a loved one or a walk around the block with a friend, find ways to keep in touch with others as your rehab progresses.
- Fear of Reinjury – Nobody wants to undergo a second procedure on the same shoulder because the first operation failed, but it’s a real possibility if something goes wrong during your rehab. Pushing yourself too hard during recovery or stepping outside of your restrictions can increase your risk of a fall or trauma to the shoulder, which can compromise the integrity of your new shoulder. If you stay within your restrictions and stick with your physical therapy plan, you can greatly reduce your risk of a significant setback with your new artificial shoulder.
- Concerns Over Surgical Complications – Some people may worry that something will go wrong during surgery or that an infection will develop during their post-op recovery. Our advice here is to trust the procedure to a skilled joint replacement surgeon like Dr. Holloway who has an impeccable track record with different types of joint replacement operations. When you find a surgeon you trust, you won’t be as worried about the procedure itself. As for post-op infections, follow your doctor’s instructions in regards to keeping the area clean. Post-op infections are rare, but they’re even rarer for patients who diligently keep the area clean.
- Frustration During Rehab – Finally, it’s not uncommon for patients to be a bit discouraged during their rehab period. Your rehab is going to be measured in months, not days, and it can be a bit difficult to see the progress you’ve made if you don’t step back and look at the big picture. Your PT and your surgical care team can help keep you motivated with appropriate exercises and progress reports so that you can stay motivated to continue your rehab. It’s a long process, but really committing to your program will give you the best chance to make the strongest recovery. If you ever feel frustrated by your perceived lack of recovery or any other issue with your rehab, connect with a friend, family member or physical therapist to help reset your mind.
We won’t let you overlook the psychological challenges associated with shoulder replacement, because we know when you’re prepared to handle the physical and mental burden of joint replacement that you’re more likely to experience a great recovery. For more information, or for help with a different shoulder issue, reach out to Dr. Holloway and his team today at (865) 410-7887.
