So you’ve decided to take on knee replacement surgery – a big step towards reclaiming your strength, mobility, and function and living your best life. While knee replacement itself is a crucial milestone, the recovery process is vital to achieving the surgery’s full benefits. Importantly, the right approach to recovery can help facilitate:
- Faster healing and tissue integration
- Increased strength and flexibility
- Improved pain management
- Reduced risk of complications
- Long-term success
Recovering from knee replacement surgery takes work, time, and patience. But with the right approach, the results will be more than worth it. Read on to learn some of our best tips for a smooth and successful knee replacement surgery recovery.
Prioritize Rest and Healing
- Get enough sleep: Aim for 8-10 hours of sleep per night to support your body’s healing process.
- Elevate your knee: Elevate your leg above your heart whenever possible to reduce swelling and promote drainage.
- Listen to your body: Don’t push yourself too hard. Recognize fatigue and take breaks when needed.
Follow Your Pain Management Plan
- Take medication as prescribed: Stick to your doctor’s instructions for pain medication to manage discomfort and promote recovery.
- Explore other pain-relief methods: Consider complementary therapies like ice packs, heat therapy, and gentle massage to complement your medication.
Embrace Physical Therapy
- Attend all physical therapy (PT) sessions: PT is one of the most important aspects of knee replacement surgery recovery. Your therapist will design exercises to improve your strength, flexibility, and range of motion following surgery, which will be essential to your recovery. Additionally, some doctors may recommend PT before your knee replacement to help prepare your body for the surgery. Embracing the PT process will help ensure your surgery and recovery are a success.
- Do your exercises at home: Continue the exercises your therapist teaches you even after your sessions end. Consistency is key for progress and long-term success.
Optimize Your Recovery Environment
- Prepare your home: Make sure your living space is free of tripping hazards and has grab bars in key areas like bathrooms.
- Invest in comfort aids: Use a supportive pillow between your legs while sleeping, and consider a shower chair or grab bar for additional bathroom safety.
- Stay hydrated and eat nutritious food: Proper hydration and a balanced diet provide your body with the nutrients it needs to heal.
Maintain a Positive Attitude
- Set realistic goals: Celebrate small improvements and focus on the progress you’re making, not just how far you have to go.
- Connect with a support system: Surround yourself with positive and encouraging people who can offer emotional support and practical help during your recovery.
- Remember, it’s a journey: Be patient with yourself and acknowledge that recovery takes time. Every day brings you closer to regaining your strength and mobility.
Additional Tips for Knee Replacement Recovery
- Manage your incision: Keep your incision clean and dry, and follow your doctor’s instructions for wound care.
- Prevent blood clots: Wear compression stockings and perform leg exercises as recommended by your doctor and physical therapy team.
- Don’t rush your return to activities: Avoid high-impact activities like running and jumping until your doctor gives you the go-ahead.
- Follow instructions closely: Importantly, be sure to follow all of the care, recovery, and exercise instructions your doctor and physical therapist give you.
Conclusion
Remember, these are just general tips, and your doctor will provide you with specific instructions tailored to your individual needs and surgery. Always consult your doctor or physical therapist for guidance and address any concerns you may have during your recovery.
We can help.
Deciding to have knee replacement surgery is a life-changing decision. It can be difficult to know when you’re ready and every patient is different. That’s why it is important to discuss your options with a board-certified orthopaedic surgeon. At Advanced Ortho and Spine (AOS), our joint replacement team, comprised of Dr. Christopher Cook, Dr. Michael LaDouceur, and Dr. Lee Swiderek, has extensive knowledge and expertise in a wide range of orthopedic treatments and procedures, including expert knee and hip replacement surgery, joint resurfacing, complex joint reconstruction, and much more.
Request an appointment online or call us at 615.885.0200 to schedule yours today.
Dr. Christopher Cook is a Board-Certified Orthopaedic Surgeon and Sports Medicine & Joint Replacement Specialist at Advanced Ortho and Spine. He provides a full spectrum of Joint Replacement, Sports Medicine, and Shoulder & Upper Extremity services. Contact us today for more information or to request an appointment. Contact us today for more information or to request an appointment.
Dr. Micheal LaDouceur is a Board-Certified Orthopaedic Surgeon and Sports Medicine & Joint Replacement Specialist at Advanced Ortho and Spine. He provides a full spectrum of Joint Replacement, Sports Medicine, and Shoulder & Upper Extremity services. Contact us today for more information or to request an appointment. Contact us today for more information or to request an appointment.
Dr. Lee Swiderek is a Fellowship-Trained Orthopedic Surgeon & Joint Replacement Specialist at Advanced Ortho and Spine. He provides a full spectrum of Joint Replacement and Complex Hip and Knee Reconstruction services. Contact us today for more information or to request an appointment.
With two locations near Nashville in Mt. Juliet and Hermitage, Advanced Ortho and Spine provides patients with high-quality, personalized care while advancing orthopaedic excellence. Contact us today to learn more or to schedule your appointment.
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