1. Be as healthy as possible. Eat healthy foods, drink lots of fluids and get plenty of rest and exercise.
   
2. Get dental work done. Get your teeth cleaned and do any required dental work. This will help decrease the risk of infection. Your surgeon may postpone your surgery if you need dental work.
   
3. Find a buddy. Your buddy will be your main support helping you do the things you must do before and after surgery and while you are in the hospital. Your buddy can be a friend or family member.
   
4. Be smoke free. It will take longer to heal if you smoke.
   
5. Get your home ready for your recovery. Make it safe and easy to get around your home and take care of yourself.
   
6. Get heavy housework done before surgery. This includes vacuuming and laundry.
   
7. Plan for your food needs. Buy groceries and prepare meals in advance.
   
8. Improve the health of your blood. Your case manager may ask you to join a program to make your blood healthier. Improving your blood’s health can help speed up your recovery.
   
9. Stay active and do your exercises. Continue doing your regular activities and start doing the recommended exercises. This will help you get moving after surgery.
   
10. Ask questions. Listen to your care team, ask questions and share your concerns. Make sure you understand what will happen during your surgery and what you can do to speed up your recovery.

This information comes from A New Knee for You: Your Guide to Knee Replacement. To see the whole guide, visit www.albertaboneandjoint.com > Patients > About Your Treatment