Returning to Work

Returning to work after surgery

Expectations for returning to work are important both to our patients and their employers. Returning to work depends on many variables including the type of surgery you had and the demands of your job.

Timeline

• Desk workers usually return to work around two to four weeks.  Some of the hurdles to return to work include ones ability to manage post-operative fatigue, swelling, discomfort, and transportation.
• More active occupations require a bit more time for recovery.  Given the variability between jobs and surgeries, it is difficult to generalize specific time lines for different patients.  We will work with you and your employer to help set expectations for your timeline based upon your unique circumstance.
• Please give our office plenty of advanced notice if any paper work is needed from your surgeon for you to be able to return to your job.

Transitioning back to work

• Expect increased fatigue as your body is still expending energy to heal from surgery.
• Be sure to budget time throughout the work day to perform any post-operative exercises.
• It is sometimes easier to start with half days the first week back to work.
• Be sure that you are able to perform all aspects of your job while still adhering to any post-operative restrictions you may have.
• Some jobs may be able to accomodate light duty or work modifications to allow you to return to work sooner.