Ask your nurse to help you contact a hospital dietitian who can develop a healthy diet for you and offer weight control advice following your surgery. Constipation can be caused by pain medicine, iron tablets, improper diet and decreased activity. Increasing the fiber in your diet with whole grain bread, bran cereals, fresh fruits and vegetables. Decreasing the use of your pain medicine when you are able. Talk to your doctor if your constipation persists.
Medicines are available to relieve the problem.
You should wait to drive a car until after your first doctor appointment following your surgery. Do not drive while taking pain medicine because it can impair your judgement and ability to operate the car safely. Do not use your surgery leg to operate machinery until six weeks after surgery. Discuss returning to work or hobbies with your doctor. Ask your occupational therapist how your activity restrictions will affect your hobbies.