@drkerbel
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@drkerbel Most surgeons drop the ball in one major aspect of knee replacement recovery: Preparing patients for what recovery actually FEELS like. And I came across an interesting new study that confirms it. The study looked at what patients EXPECTED recovery would be like before surgery… versus how they actually felt a year later. The patients who expected HUGE improvements (way beyond what most people realistically experience) were more disappointed afterwards. Even when the surgery and recovery went well! To me, this again shows how important mental and psychological preparation is before surgery. People know there will be “some pain” after surgery. They know recovery “takes time.” But they aren’t prepared for: The ups and downs… The random bad days after good stretches… The stiffness… The swelling… The emotional roller coaster… The moments where you wonder: “Did I damage something?” “Am I behind?” “Why don’t I feel normal yet?” Nobody prepares you for that part. And when reality doesn’t match the picture you have in your head, it creates anxiety, frustration, and disappointment… even when the knee itself is doing pretty well. That’s why I think expectation setting is one of the most important parts of knee replacement. I’m not saying you should be negative or fearful…or that you shouldn’t strive for an amazing outcome. But you DO have to be prepared for a long journey that’s going to have ups and downs, and isn’t always going to be easy. You can have an amazing outcome and STILL have difficult days during recovery. Both things can be true. A big part of my mission is talking about these unspoken parts of knee replacement recovery that nobody prepares you for: the mindset side, the emotional side, the difficult days, and the little things that can help you get through the journey more smoothly. If you find these kinds of recovery tips helpful, consider joining my free newsletter. I share insights like this twice a month to help people feel more prepared, less alone, and more confident as they work toward getting their life back. Comment “join” and I’ll send you the link. #kne
