For Patients
Post-Op Instructions After Orthopedic Surgery
in Maryland
Good recovery starts with following your post-op instructions closely. Here are the basics of orthopedic surgery recovery. Your own surgeon's written plan always comes first.
Board-certified surgeons
4 Maryland offices
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888.746.1665
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Board-certified surgeons
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Maryland offices
What to Expect
Your orthopedic surgery recovery timeline
Exact timing depends on your procedure, your health and how well you follow the plan.
Protect
Guard the repair. Control pain and swelling.
Move
Start gentle motion and physical therapy.
Strengthen
Rebuild strength and balance step by step.
Return
Go back to work and sport once cleared. See return to sports.
Recovery at Home
Your orthopedic surgery recovery timeline
Pain management after surgery
Take medicine as prescribed. Do not wait for severe pain. Use ice and elevation too. No driving or alcohol on prescription pain medicine.
Wound care after surgery
Keep the dressing clean and dry. Do not remove stitches or soak the area. Have a cast? Read cast and crutches care.
Swelling and rest
Raise the area above your heart. Ice in short sessions. Swelling can last weeks. After a shot, see post-injection care.
Food and healing
Eat protein at every meal, drink water and ask before taking supplements. More in nutrition for recovery.
Going home after anesthesia? Read post-anesthesia care and return to driving.
Know the Signs
Your orthopedic surgery recovery timeline
Call our office: 888.746.1665
- Fever [CONFIRM temperature]
- Redness, warmth or pus at the incision
- Pain your medicine does not control
- Numb, cold, pale or blue fingers or toes
- A swollen, painful calf
Call 911 or go to the ER
- Chest pain
- Trouble breathing
- Heavy bleeding that will not stop
- Sudden confusion or fainting
Recovery at Home
Post-op instructions by procedure
Different surgeries have different rules. Find yours:
Shoulder arthroscopy
Rotator cuff repair surgery
Knee arthroscopy
Meniscus surgery
Ligament repair surgery
Elbow arthroscopy
Wrist arthroscopy
Foot and ankle surgery
Upper extremity fracture surgery
Lower extremity fracture surgery
All common procedures
Our Specialists
Meet Our Orthopedic Specialists
Our doctors have trained at some of the most prestigious academic medical centers in the nation, treating every musculoskeletal condition with a personal touch.
Dr. Andrew Siekanowicz
Chief of Orthopedic Surgery and Sports Medicine
Dr. Ashok L. Gowda
Chief of Orthopedic Surgery and
Chief Medical Officer
Yavonne Johnson, PA-C
Orthopedic Physician Assistant
Dr. Evan Argintar
Chief of cartilage restoration, joint preservation, and minimally invasive arthroplasty
Frequently Asked Questions
Questions, answered
Can't find your answer? Our team is available Mon–Fri, 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM.
Why is it important to follow post-operative instructions after orthopedic surgery?
Following your surgeon's post-operative instructions helps support healing, manage discomfort, reduce the risk of complications, and guide a safe recovery. Instructions vary depending on the procedure and your individual needs.
How do I manage pain and swelling after orthopedic surgery?
Follow your surgeon's recommendations for prescribed medications, icing, elevation, and activity restrictions. Contact your healthcare provider if pain or swelling worsens unexpectedly or does not improve as anticipated.
When can I resume normal activities after orthopedic surgery?
Recovery timelines depend on the type of surgery, the tissues involved, and your healing progress. Follow your surgeon's guidance before returning to work, exercise, driving, or other regular activities.
How should I care for my surgical incision after surgery?
Keep your incision and dressing clean and dry according to your surgical team's instructions. Do not remove dressings or apply ointments unless directed. Contact your healthcare provider if you notice increasing redness, drainage, or other concerning changes.
When should I contact my surgeon after surgery?
Contact your surgical team if you experience worsening pain, increasing swelling, wound drainage, fever, or other unexpected symptoms. Seek urgent medical attention for chest pain, difficulty breathing, or other potentially serious symptoms.
When can I start physical therapy after orthopedic surgery?
The timing of physical therapy depends on your procedure and your surgeon's rehabilitation plan. Some patients begin gentle movement early, while others need a period of protection before starting specific exercises. Always follow your individualized instructions.
Questions about your post-op instructions?
Our Maryland orthopedic surgery team is here to help. Call 888.746.1665 or contact us.
Board-certified surgeons
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4 Maryland offices
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Let’s Get You Scheduled
Speak directly with our team to schedule your appointment at the time that works best for you.
Mon–Fri: 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM
(301)-851-0776
