Knee Replacement – Dos and Don’ts for Recovery
Knee replacement surgery is a major procedure that can help relieve pain and improve mobility for individuals with severe knee damage. If you or a loved one is considering or has undergone a knee replacement, it is important to understand the proper care and precautions to take during the recovery process.
Before Knee Replacement: The Most Vital Consideration
Are you the right candidate?
Candidates for knee replacement surgery are typically individuals who have experienced chronic pain and difficulty with mobility due to severe osteoarthritis or other degenerative joint diseases. Other conditions that may make a person a candidate for knee replacement surgery include rheumatoid arthritis, post-traumatic arthritis, and avascular necrosis. In general, candidates for knee replacement surgery are those who have not found relief from other treatments such as physical therapy, medications, or less invasive procedures such as arthroscopy. Age is also a factor, as most individuals who undergo knee replacement surgery are over the age of 50. However, younger individuals with severe joint damage may also be candidates for this surgery. So, before knee replacement, candidates need to discuss their specific condition and treatment options with their healthcare provider to determine if knee replacement surgery is the best option for them.
Knee Replacement Dos and Don’ts
While knee replacement can greatly improve quality of life, it is vital for individuals to properly care for their new joint to ensure the best possible outcome. Here are some dos and don’ts for individuals who have undergone knee replacement surgery:
DOs:
- Follow your physical therapy plan: Physical therapy is an integral part of the recovery process after knee replacement surgery. It helps strengthen the knee muscles and improve the range of motion. Observing and following the physical therapy plans and performing prescribed exercises are essential.
- Use assistive devices as needed: Depending on your level of mobility and strength, after knee replacement, you may benefit from using assistive devices such as a cane, crutches, or a walker during the early stages of recovery. These devices can help to reduce the load on your new knee and improve your balance and stability.
- Protect your incision: It is important to keep your incision clean and dry to reduce the risk of infection. Your surgeon will offer wound care instructions, so ensure you follow them correctly. Also, avoid submerging your incision in water until it has fully healed.
- Take your medications as prescribed: Your doctor may prescribe medications to help manage pain and reduce inflammation after surgery. It is important to take these medications as directed in order to maximize their benefits and minimize discomfort.
DON’Ts:
- Skip follow-up appointments: It is essential to attend all follow-up appointments with your surgeon and physical therapist after knee replacement surgery. These appointments allow your healthcare team to monitor your progress so that if you need any necessary amendments to your treatment plan, they can be provided early.
- Overdo it: After knee replacement, it is important to listen to your body and not ignore warning signs. Do not push yourself too hard during the recovery process. Avoid strenuous activities that cause pain or discomfort, and be sure to rest as needed.
- Neglect your overall health: Knee replacement surgery is just one aspect of your overall health. It is important to maintain a healthy lifestyle, including eating a balanced diet, staying hydrated, and getting regular exercise (as approved by your doctor).
- Ignore warning signs: Be sure to contact your surgeon or primary care doctor if you experience any concerning symptoms, such as fever, redness or swelling at the incision site, or increased pain. These may be signs of infection or other complications.
One of the most critical knee replacement recovery tips is to remember to exercise patience with your recovery process and not try to do too much too soon. Finally, follow a healthy diet and stay hydrated to support the healing process.