The holidays often mean family gatherings, long drives, or flights to visit loved ones. But if you’ve recently had a robotic hip or knee replacement, traveling can bring unique challenges. With the right preparation and precautions, you can travel safely, stay comfortable, and fully enjoy the season. Here are expert tips to help make your journey smooth and stress-free.
Get Medical Clearance for Your Holiday Trip
Before booking your trip, talk to your care team about your travel plans. Most patients can travel within weeks after surgery, but timing varies depending on recovery progress. Discuss your mode of transportation, mobility needs, and any potential complications that might arise. A pre-travel follow-up visit ensures your joint is stable and strong enough for extended sitting or walking.
Airport Tips: Security and Mobility Assistance
If you’re traveling by air, let airport security know you have an artificial joint as metal detectors may alarm. Don’t hesitate to request wheelchair assistance or early boarding—it’s designed to make travel more comfortable, not to inconvenience others. Using wheelchair assistance in the airport helps ensure you arrive at your gate comfortably and without placing unnecessary stress on your new joint.
Pack Smart: Comfort and Safety First
When traveling after a hip or knee replacement, comfort is key. Wear loose, breathable clothing and supportive shoes that are easy to slip on and off. If you’re flying, carry your medications in your hand luggage and keep a small cushion or travel pillow to support your operated joint during long journeys.
Nutrition and Hydration on the Go
Maintaining healthy habits while traveling can make a big difference in your recovery. Focus on lean proteins, fruits, vegetables, and whole grains to support healing and reduce inflammation. Pack healthy snacks like nuts, yogurt, or fruit to avoid long gaps between meals.
Hydration is equally important, especially during flights or long drives. Drink plenty of water throughout the day and limit caffeine or alcohol, which can dehydrate you and increase joint stiffness. A refillable water bottle is a simple travel essential that helps you stay comfortable and keep your recovery on track wherever you go.
Move Regularly to Prevent Stiffness and Clots
Sitting still for long periods on flights or car rides can increase the risk of stiffness and blood clots. Try to stretch or walk every 30–60 minutes. Simple ankle pumps, knee bends, or leg raises can improve circulation. If you’re on a plane, choose an aisle seat for easier access to stand and move. For road trips, plan rest stops where you can get out and walk for a few minutes.
Listen to Your Body and Pace Yourself
Even with a successful robotic joint replacement, fatigue or mild swelling can occur after long travel days. Ice your joint in the evening and elevate your leg if needed. Stick to your home exercise program as much as possible to maintain strength and flexibility during your trip.
Enjoy the Holidays with Confidence
Whether you’re heading across town or across the country, remember that recovery after robotic joint replacement is a journey toward greater mobility and independence. With a little preparation and your healthcare providers’ guidance, you can travel comfortably, enjoy time with family, and celebrate the progress you’ve made one step at a time.
AUTHOR: Robert J. Avino M.D. is a board-certified and fellowship-trained adult hip and knee reconstruction surgeon at Palm Beach Orthopaedic Institute. Dr. Avino specializes in robotic-assisted hip and knee replacement using the minimally invasive direct anterior approach to hip replacement, across Palm Beach County in South Florida.
