Returning to Daily Activity After Surgery
March 17, 2025
At Orthopaedic Associates of Duluth, we understand how important it is to you to get back to your daily routine after having a surgery. Whether you’ve had a joint replacement, spine surgery, or a soft tissue repair, recovering fully and resuming your normal activities – and doing so in a safe way – is top priority.
Back in July we discussed “Life After Surgery: Returning to a Life in Motion”, where we gave a more general overview of what to expect after surgery. In this blog, we’ll provide some more specific guidance on how to safely return to your routine daily activities.
1. Follow Your Surgeon’s Instructions
This one should go without saying, but is still an important reminder. Every surgery comes with a set of specific instructions and guidelines that help ensure your successful recovery. These instructions may include restrictions on certain movements, weight-bearing activities, or the amount of time you should spend on your feet each day. Always follow these instructions carefully to avoid complications and setbacks. If you’re ever unsure, don’t hesitate to contact your care team!
2. Engage in Therapy
Physical Therapy (PT) and Occupational Therapy (OT) are key components of your recovery plan. A tailored program created by your recovery team will help you regain strength, flexibility, and mobility in your affected area. Your therapist will guide you through exercises designed to rebuild muscles and improve your range of motion. Regular sessions can also reduce the likelihood of reinjury when you return to more strenuous activities.
3. Listen to Your Body
Your body will give you cues as to when it’s time to push yourself and when it’s time to rest. If you experience pain, swelling, or discomfort, it’s important to ease up. Everyone’s recovery is different, and it’s important to avoid rushing back into activities too quickly.
4. Start Slow with Light Activities
As you begin to return to daily tasks, start with light activities that are less demanding on your body. For example, if you’ve had knee surgery, gentle walking and simple stretches can help you regain flexibility and strength. If you’ve had shoulder surgery, focusing on range-of-motion exercises can improve mobility. Gradually increase the intensity and duration of your activities as your strength improves. For general daily activities, for example cooking or cleaning – take frequent breaks, use assistive devices, and ask for help if needed.
5. Returning to Work
Once your doctor clears you to return to work, ease back into it gradually as well. Similar to point 4, start with lighter tasks before transitioning to more demanding responsibilities. If your job involves physical labor or extended standing, discuss modifications with your employer to help make the transition easier.
6. Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle
A healthy lifestyle is essential to a successful recovery. Eating a balanced diet, staying hydrated, and getting enough sleep can all support your body’s healing process. Additionally, once you have been cleared by your physician, incorporating regular low-impact exercise can help prevent further injury and improve your long-term mobility.
7. Be Patient with Yourself
The road to recovery takes time, and it’s important to be patient with yourself and listen to your surgeon, therapist, and your own body as you regain your strength. Setting small, achievable goals will help you stay motivated – so celebrate each milestone, whether it’s walking a little farther or completing an exercise you couldn’t do before. Every step counts (literally)!
Returning to your daily activities after surgery is a gradual process, but with the right approach, you can regain your independence and quality of daily movements. And if you have any questions, our team is here to help get you back to living in motion!