The Process

Everything you need to prepare, recover, and navigate your care with confidence.

Clear, practical guidance—from your first visit through recovery.

Preparing For Your Visit

What to Bring

To make your visit as efficient and focused, please bring:

  • A list of current medications and allergies

  • Any prior imaging (X-rays, MRI, CT) on disc if available

  • Reports from prior treatments or surgeries

  • Insurance information and identification

What to Expect

Your visit will include a detailed review of:

  • Your symptoms

  • Prior treatments

  • Imaging review

  • Physical examination


The goal is to clearly define the problem and outline the most appropriate next steps.

Preparing for Surgery

Optimizing for Surgery

  • Medical clearance when appropriate

  • Blood sugar control for diabetic patients

  • Smoking cessation

  • Weight optimization

  • Planning for support at home after surgery

Preparing for surgery is an important part of achieving a safe procedure and a smooth recovery.

Typical Criteria for Surgery

  • BMI usually below 40

  • Hgb A1c under 7.5

  • Home support

  • Smoking cessation before and after surgery

Understanding BMI and Surgical Readiness

Target Weight for BMI 40

Enter your height to calculate the weight that corresponds to a BMI of 40.

Target weight for BMI 40

Body mass index (BMI) is one of several factors that can influence surgical risk, including infection and wound healing.

To help you understand your individual goals:

  • Joint replacement often requires a BMI below 40

  • Identify your target weight based on your height

  • Track progress toward surgical readiness

This tool provides general guidance and does not replace individualized medical evaluation.

Recovery

What to Expect After Surgery

Recovery is a gradual process that occurs in phases. Most patients experience steady, predictable improvement over time.

Early Recovery (First 2 Weeks)

  • Focus on pain control and mobility

  • Walking begins shortly after surgery

  • Swelling and fatigue are expected

Intermediate Phase (2–6 Weeks)

  • Increasing strength and range of motion

  • Transition away from assistive devices

  • Return to many daily activities

Later Recovery (6+ Weeks)

  • Continued improvement in strength and endurance

  • Return to more demanding activities as appropriate

Pain Management

Multimodal Approach

  • Pain is managed using a combination of strategies designed to improve comfort while minimizing side effects.

  • The goal is steady improvement in comfort while supporting a safe and active recovery.

Strategies

  • Anti-inflammatory medications

  • Acetaminophen (Tylenol)

  • Short-term use of opioid medications when necessary

  • Ice and elevation

  • Early mobility

Common Questions

  • Most patients experience some discomfort after surgery, particularly in the first few days. Pain is expected but is carefully managed using a combination of medications, ice, and early movement.

    For many patients, the pain from surgery is different—and often more manageable—than the chronic joint pain they experienced before. As recovery progresses, pain steadily improves over the first several weeks.

    The goal is to keep you comfortable enough to move, participate in therapy, and recover safely.

  • Most patients see significant improvement within 4–6 weeks, with continued progress over several months.

  • Most patients begin walking the same day or the day after surgery with assistance.

  • Driving is typically possible within a few weeks, depending on the side of surgery, pain control, and ability to safely operate a vehicle.

  • Modern hip and knee replacements are designed to last many years, often 20+ depending on activity level and individual factors.

  • Yes. Physical therapy plays an important role in restoring motion, strength, and function.

  • The BMI thresholds for joint replacement is typically less than 40. Individual recommendations are based on overall health and risk assessment.

  • This depends on the type of work. Sedentary roles may return within 6 weeks, while more physical jobs may require 2-3 months.

  • Though all surgery carries some risk, joint replacement is a commonly performed procedure with high success rates and low risk of complications, especially in the outpatient setting.

Contact and Location

If you have questions before your visit, our team is available to help.

Watauga Orthopaedics — Johnson City


2410 Susannah Street
Johnson City, TN 37601

Phone: (423) 282-9011

Fax: (423) 282-0035

Watauga Orthopaedics Center for Advanced Bone and Joint Surgery


10425 Wallace Alley Street
Kingsport, TN 37663

Phone: (423) 282-9011