Knee replacement is a big surgery. It can be challenging, especially without the help of friends and family members. However, the help of family members is also not enough sometimes. Sometimes the lack of regularities can delay the healing process significantly. So, in this blog, we will inform you top 10 tips for faster recovery after joint replacement surgery. Connect with Neotia Getwel Multispecialty Hospital for the best medical assistance and 24*7 emergency care.

1. Little steps go a long way: It is important to stay active after joint replacement surgery. However, you should only do it after the doctor suggests you do this. After the doctor's instruction, you should move a bit every hour. Well, even if it’s just to get a drink, or go to the bathroom. You need to move only because little movements help in reducing the risk of blood clots and other complications.

Additionally, it helps in knee circulation and results in a faster healing process.

2. Give your body the rest it deserves: Knee replacement is a big surgery for sure. Even if it is a partial surgery, it makes a huge impact on your body. Your body needs an adequate amount of sleep and rest to get healed. Keep moving but that doesn’t mean that you can compromise on your resting time. Getting great sleep is going to play an important role in achieving the quickest recovery time. So, aim to get 8+ hours of sleep, if not more.

When you are resting (but not asleep), keep your leg elevated. You can also apply an ice pack wrapped in a towel for 20 minutes to reduce any swelling. However, it is just our suggestion, do not forget to ask your doctor once before doing this.

3. Do not put pressure on your knees: Your knee is going to be very sore and swollen after surgery. So, do not put any pressure on your knees. Ask your doctor about the kind of movements you should do to reduce the pain & swelling of your knees.

4. Make a set-up: As we have already suggested you have to avoid any kind of pressure or knee folding right after the surgery. So, you can set up your room on the ground floor of your house. Here are some more basic tips for you that you should arrange before moving from hospital to home. The tips are:

• pillows for elevating the lower leg.
• a bedside commode or urinal if the bathroom isn’t accessible.
• a bed that isn’t too high or low off the ground.
• ice packs for the knee.
• a telephone, or cellphone and a charger, to call for help.
• easily accessible, identifiable, and neatly arranged medications.
• a walker or crutches.
• writing materials to take notes or list questions for the healthcare team.
• comfortable sleepwear.
• comfortable shoes that are safe for walking around the house in.
• bandages for changing dressings.
• lights or lamps with easy controls.
• clean, dry linens.
• toiletries.

You should be very careful about the room decoration. Nothing should be on the floor of the room which can cause a fall. Standing, sitting, and moving can be painful. So, get help.

5. Follow the exercise plan: Exercise can fasten the recovery rate after knee surgery. However, you have to remember that you can’t do any exercise you want or you can try anything you see on the internet.

Every patient is different and so is their physiology. So they need personalized attention. Ask your doctor about it and follow the guidelines strictly. Remember, any mistake on this, can be fatal.

6. Keep an eye on your diet: Your diet makes a huge impact on your recovery rate. If you provide the right nutrients to your body, it will work as fuel and will increase the recovery rate as well.

Your frame wishes for minerals and veggies at some stage, and the satisfactory way to get them is through wholesome meals, which are excellent for you. Foods high in iron include:

• Fish and shellfish.
• Red meat, liver, and turkey, especially the dark meat.
• Legumes like chickpeas, beans, and lentils.
• Tofu.
• Spinach and broccoli.
• Pumpkin seeds.

However, again, many people have other issues and in that case, they will need a customized diet. So, ask your doctor about your diet.

7. Take good care of your wound: It is important to take good care of your wound. It fastens the recovery rate. Keep the area clean and dry, and avoid submerging it in water until it has fully healed. Look out for any signs of infection, such as redness, swelling, or drainage, and promptly notify your healthcare provider if you notice any abnormalities. Remember, the diligent care you provide to your incision today will help pave the way for a seamless recovery tomorrow.

8. Keep an eye on your weight as well: Excessive weight puts excessive pressure on your knees and it slows down the recovery rate. Excess weight puts additional stress on your knee joint, hindering the recovery process. Consult with your healthcare provider or a registered dietitian to develop a weight management plan that suits your individual needs.

9. Take your medicines seriously: Take your medicines seriously. Do not miss any medicine at all and do not forget to follow up appointments. It also ensures the recovery rate of your knees.

10. Be mindful about the other complications: There are potential risks of other complications as well. For example, increased pain, redness, swelling, warmth, drainage around the surgical incision site, swelling, tenderness, or pain in your calf or leg, accompanied by redness or warmth, etc. Apart from these, there will be chances of facing issues difficulty in bending or straightening your knee, instability, or a feeling that the joint is "giving way" as well.

Do not ignore any of these signs and connect with your doctor ASAP.

Some common FAQs:

How long does it take to walk normally after knee replacement?

It usually takes around six weeks to walk normally after knee replacement. However, it varies from patient to patient. So, do not get worried if it is taking longer for you.

How far should you be walking six weeks after knee replacement?

People who have undergone a knee replacement, are usually advised to walk six weeks after the surgery. However, this may vary depending on the type of surgery and individual needs.

What kind of exercise can I do after knee replacement?

You can go for swimming or a little walk. However, it depends on the condition of your body. So, it is best to consult with your doctor before starting any kind of physical work.

Final words: We hope that these tips will help in your faster recovery. Connect with Neotia Getwel Multispecialty Hospital for the best medical assistance and 24*7 emergency care.

Disclaimer

Though all attempts are made to provide correct information on the subject, inadvertent & typographical errors arising out of manual intervention cannot be ruled out. It is requested to bring any such discrepancies to the notice of the blogger for correction.