You are scheduled for the surgery, and you are already imagining how much better your life will be without constant pain in your knee. However, until you get there, there are a few more obstacles. One of them is your recovery.
With partial or total knee replacement, recovery is just as important as surgery. You’ll have a mobilization plan and a physical therapist who will teach you how to build strength in your knees and adjust to your environment so you won’t be at risk for another injury.
Our expert, Thomas Kane III, is a pioneer in arthroscopic hip surgery and the first surgeon to perform it in Hawaii. He shares five tips to speed up your knee replacement recovery and ensure a good recovery.
Physical therapy is vital in your recovery. Consistent practice will increase strength and mobility in your knee, and each session matters. Don’t skip sessions, as one session builds on the other. Physical activity tailored to your needs also reduces the risk of blood clots and scar tissue. In addition, your tissues need oxygen to heal, and oxygen delivery to tissues is higher when you are active.
Some pain and swelling are standard parts of your recovery. Ice packs throughout the day and leg elevation can help. Taking your prescription medication as prescribed is also key, but if pain levels don’t go down, contact your medical provider. Your pain could be caused by inflammation, infections, or a blood clot, which can only be addressed in the medical office.
During recovery, your body needs a balanced diet to build muscle and other tissues around the parts of your cartilage that are now replaced by a prosthetic. For this to happen, you’ll need adequate amounts of protein and vitamin C. Protein found in lean cuts and dairy helps with muscle-building. In contrast, vitamin C in many vegetables and fruits helps produce collagen needed for skin and cartilage repair.
Early mobilization can help improve circulation and prevent blood clots, but pushing through pain and discomfort isn’t recommended. It may even cause injuries. Pain and swelling shouldn’t follow an activity; if it does, it might be a sign for you to get some rest.
When you are recovering from knee surgery, you should ensure there are no safety hazards in your home, as your sense of balance is impaired. Remove tripping hazards such as electrical cords or loose rugs and consider installing grab bars in the bathroom and a shower chair to ensure you’re safe and comfortable while bathing.
Knee replacement surgery is recommended when conservative methods fail to manage pain and stiffness. You may have wanted to regain your function for a while now, and the lengthy recovery process seems just another obstacle.
Our experts at the Kane Orthopedic Institute understand that and want to ensure your recovery is as smooth as possible and you receive all the medical attention you need to transition into a more active chapter of your life. Contact us to schedule an appointment to learn more about what knee replacement surgery can do for you and your lifestyle and what you can expect to happen throughout the recovery.
