If you’re getting ready for hip or knee replacement surgery, you’re likely focused on medications, physical therapy, and planning your recovery. But there’s another essential part of the process that often gets overlooked—hydration. Staying well-hydrated before and after joint replacement can make a surprising difference in how you heal and how you feel.
Why Hydration Matters Before Surgery
Hydration plays a critical role in preparing your body for the stress of surgery. Water supports healthy blood flow, tissue elasticity, and organ function. Dehydration, on the other hand, can lead to complications such as low blood pressure, increased heart rate, or even delayed wound healing.
In the days leading up to your joint replacement, you may be advised to increase your water intake (unless restricted for other medical reasons). This helps ensure your body is in the best possible condition heading into surgery.
Post-Operative Benefits of Staying Hydrated
After surgery, hydration becomes just as important. Drinking enough fluids helps:
- Flush out anesthesia and reduce nausea
- Prevent constipation, a common side effect of pain medications
- Support joint lubrication and tissue healing
- Maintain healthy circulation, which helps prevent blood clots
You may not feel thirsty after surgery, especially with changes in appetite or limited mobility, but regular fluid intake is a key part of recovery. Your care team can provide a recommended daily target based on your weight and medical history.
Tips to Stay Hydrated Without Overdoing It
You don’t need to rely only on water to stay hydrated. Herbal teas, broths, and fruits with high water content (like watermelon or oranges) can all contribute to your fluid intake. Avoid drinks high in caffeine or sugar, which can dehydrate you.
If you're recovering at home, consider keeping a water bottle nearby and setting reminders to sip throughout the day. For patients with fluid restrictions, such as those with heart or kidney conditions, hydration should be carefully managed in coordination with your surgeon or primary care physician.
Hydration as Part of a Comprehensive Recovery Plan
Joint replacement surgery is more than just a procedure—it’s a journey toward improved mobility and quality of life. Staying well-hydrated may seem basic, but it’s one of the most powerful tools you have for supporting healing, reducing complications, and enhancing your recovery.
Dr. Christopher Palmer is a distinguished expert in robotic-assisted, minimally invasive hip and knee replacement, having performed more robotic total joints than anyone in Missouri, with over 2,000 successful procedures using the Mako SmartRobotics™.
AUTHOR: Dr. Christopher W. Palmer, DO, is a board-certified, fellowship-trained Orthopaedic Surgeon at Signature Medical Group in Missouri, specializing in robotic-assisted hip and knee replacement. Dr. Palmer has specialized training in the Mako SmartRobotics ™ System with a focus on compassionate, individualized patient care.
