FAQs
How do I make an appointment?
Simply call us at , or if you are an established patient you can contact the team directly at [javascript protected email address]
What do I need to bring to my appointment?
Here is check list for your initial consultation:
- Driver’s license or a valid ID
- Insurance information
- Reports, X-rays, MRIs, CT scans etc. and any other relevant information
- List of medications (if any)
- We encourage you to come to your initial consultation with a written list of questions to ensure you don’t forget to ask them when you are seeing the doctor.
How will my pain be controlled after surgery?
Dr. Lincoln will prescribe medication for pain relief after surgery. If you are under pain management, or receive it from your PCP, this will need to be clarified prior to surgery. Under Florida prescribing laws, Dr. Lincoln is limited to a 3 day prescription.
Will I walk the day of surgery?
Normally patients walk with an assistive device on the day of surgery. You will be supervised by the therapist or nurse while staying in the hospital.
Will I need a walker or crutches after surgery?
You will use a walker initially after surgery and then progress to using a cane. The transition from walker to cane will vary depending on pre-operative fitness level/functionality level.
How soon after surgery should I come in to clinic?
Dr. Lincoln’s team will schedule all of your post-operative appointment when you are scheduled for surgery or at your pre-operative appointment. The first appointment will be 2 weeks from the date of surgery for a wound check, staple or suture removal. If there are any concerns, please call our office number and ask for Team Lincoln and an urgent appointment will be made as necessary.
What circumstances should I call the office?
If you are experiencing any of the following symptoms the office should be contacted: nausea, fever >102 degrees, chills, vomiting, drainage from incision, calf tenderness, constipation, diarrhea, etc. Please contact the office immediately if you have any of these symptoms and an urgent appointment will be made.
How soon can I drive after surgery?
If you drive an automatic vehicle and surgery has been performed on the left leg, you are able to drive once you have discontinued the narcotic medication. If surgery has been performed on the right leg, you are advised to wait 4 weeks prior to driving.
How long should I take off from work for surgery and recovery time?
The post-operative recovery period varies based on the particular surgery. Generally, it is recommended patients take a minimum of two weeks off work to recover from any surgery. Your surgeon will give you specific instructions to follow for a successful recovery. This discussion can take place with Dr. Lincoln and his team prior to surgery.
When can I resume exercise?
Your doctor will instruct you about post-treatment exercises – the type and the duration to be followed. You may be referred to a physical therapist to help with strengthening and range of motion exercises following surgery. Please see nonsurgical treatment page.
What are the non-surgical treatment options?
The non-surgical treatment options include rest, medications including analgesics and anti-inflammatories, selective steroid injections, and physical/occupational therapy.
Will physical therapy be required after surgery?
Achieving full range of motion, strength, and flexibility after surgery usually takes time. That is where pre-operative exercise, education, and post-operative physical therapy programs come in – to ensure you are physically and emotionally prepared for surgery and to maximize your recovery after surgery.
What are the risks associated with surgery?
As with any surgery, risks include reactions to anesthesia, bleeding, infection, stiffness, fracture, dislocations, limb length difference, and nerve damage. Your doctor will discuss the risks associated with your specific procedure.
When can I return to daily activities?
This varies depending on the type of procedure undergone, and can range from a few days to a few months. Your doctor will advise you depending on your recovery and functional status after surgery.
What can happen if surgery is avoided?
The decision to have joint replacement surgery is one that must be taken under careful consideration. Typical symptoms might include pain, loss of motion, and weakness. Avoiding surgery will likely result in worsening of these symptoms.
What are the most common injuries?
The most common orthopedic injuries are sprains, strains, fractures, and dislocations. Injuries can occur when playing indoor or outdoor sports or while exercising. Sports injuries can result from accidents, inadequate training, improper use of protective devices, or insufficient stretching or warm-up exercises