Sleeping well to recover from joint replacement is a very common complaint given by patients who have had total hip or knee replacement is that they are not getting a good night’s sleep. Post-operative pain is the cause of these sleep disturbances.
An article written and published by the American Association of Hip and Knee Surgeons’ Patient Committee offers insight and tips for achieving a restful and healing night. Of course, sleep is fundamental to healing. So this is a crucial area that requires patience and diligence on the part of the patient. “Pain management protocol” is the combination of various methods to effectively deal with the pain associated with joint replacement.
Three areas are involved with achieving a full night of sleep during recovery from total joint replacement surgery:
- Pain management, which may include injections and nerve blocks, also narcotics and anti-inflammatory medications.
- Narcotic use, which involves close monitoring of the lowering of usage after a limited time.
- Physical activity, which can positively as well as negatively affect sleep cycles.
The surgeon will be of utmost assistance in addressing sleep deprivation, pain management and levels of physical activity for your recovery period. You should always follow your doctor’s orders.
Written by: Ruby Holder Moseley, FizzNiche Staff Writer
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