As a new year approaches, people develop resolutions to help them become the best versions of themselves. Many people aim to incorporate a healthy diet or exercise regimen to lead them to their goals of losing weight in the new year. Maintaining a healthy weight can not only enhance self-esteem but is also extremely beneficial to an individual’s overall health.

How does healthy weight factory into orthopedics?

Those seeking a joint replacement, in particular, should keep a healthy weight in mind before undergoing the procedure. Although you may feel healthy, those with a BMI larger than 40 are at a greater risk for complications during and after surgery. It’s important to be aware of these risks, so that you may minimize them before undergoing an operation. Overweight individuals are more likely to develop cardiovascular disease (including high blood pressure), diabetes, obstructive sleep apnea, and metabolic syndrome – all of which can contribute to post-op complications.

Can joint replacement help me become more active?

Joint replacement does alleviate pain and enables patients to become more active, but patients shouldn’t wait to become active. Because the procedure minimizes joint pain, many patients go into it with the intention of losing weight afterward. However, studies show that the majority of obese patients who undergo joint replacement maintain the same post-op BMI. This further proves the significant value of implementing a healthy lifestyle into everyday life.

How do I lose weight?

So, how do you lose the weight? The main components of a weight-loss regimen are diet and exercise. Start by reducing fat and calorie intake, and incorporate more fruits, vegetables, lean meats, and whole grains into your diet. Low impact exercises (such as swimming, biking, or elliptical training) will be less stressful on your joints and can be very effective weight loss solutions.

Losing weight is a gradual process, so don’t get discouraged. The payoff of lowering your BMI is significant, and will positively affect your health and lifestyle. Talk to your physician to explore the different low-impact activities available, and discuss a weight-reduction plan that best suits your lifestyle.

Contact Campbell Clinic

If you’d like to find out more about Campbell Clinic, or would like to set up an appointment with a physician, please contact us at 901-759-3100.

This post was adapted from AAOS.