Care Team Resources

The following information has been created specifically for care providers of Dr. Deans' own patients, or other hip and knee arthroplasty patients.

To achieve Motion, for Life it takes a team-based approach to optimize our shared patients' outcomes.

These resources have been compiled through collaboration with trusted physical therapists, occupational therapists, functional medicine specialists, nutritionists, and invaluable input from other orthopaedic surgeon colleagues.

Together, we can continue to improve our care delivery and post-operative protocols for our patients ...
... in order to help them Regain Mobility to Restore Life.

Nutrition & Therapy Before Surgery

Perform preoperative home exercises, at minimum, for 3-4 weeks prior to surgery.

** Note: alternatively, performing formal outpatient-based physical therapy with a trained therapist or trainer.

Ensure adequate fluid intake and hydration.
Increase protein consumption to up to 150 grams per day 3-4 weeks prior to surgery.

** Note: patients with renal impairment or other medical problems requiring controlled protein intake, please consult specifically with your care team prior to increased protein consumption.

Consider implementing an anti-inflammatory diet, such as the Mediterranean diet.
Establish stable sleep routine with at least 8 hours per night, for 3-4 weeks prior to surgery.

Eliminate alcohol or other substance use.

Nutrition & Therapy After Surgery

Download and perform exercises in Protocol below, and/or with the professional guidance of your physical therapist.
Continue adequate fluid intake and hydration.
Continue protein consumption to up to 150 grams per day 3-4 weeks prior to surgery.

** Note: patients with renal impairment or other medical problems requiring controlled protein intake, please consult specifically with your care team prior to increased protein consumption.

Continue stable sleep routine with at least 8 hours per night, for 3-4 weeks prior to surgery.

Consider anti-inflammatory diet, such as Mediterranean diet.

Controlling Pain & Swelling After Surgery

Cold therapy:
- Ice 10-20 minutes of every awake hour for the first 2-3 weeks after surgery, then at least three (3) times per day until follow-up.
- May use bags of ice, ice machine, or cold compression therapy.

Continue supplemental protein / essential amino acids.
- Up to 150 grams per day goal.
- Prioritize lean animal-based, whey, or plant-based proteins.

** special consideration for those with chronic kidney disease or other medical conditions which require limited protein intake. Speak with your care team if you have concerns about increased protein intake around surgery.

Continue Mediterranean or other anti-inflammatory diet.

Drink at least 2 liters of water per day.

Use TED hose or compression socks for knee / calf / ankle swelling.

Get in Touch

If you are a provider caring for one of Dr. Deans' patients, please contact via telephone the number previously provided to you and/or your patient.

If you are a provider who has questions and/or comments, please reach out via the email address and you will receive a prompt response.