Total knee replacement surgery is one of the best ways to treat problems affecting your knees. Recovery from total knee surgery, or replacing damaged joints with metal or plastic implants, usually takes around three to six weeks. However, what you do within this period dramatically affects the speed and quality of your healing. Besides follow-up appointments and physical therapy, you can engage yourself with other things to ensure you are on track to getting better.
Let’s talk about some recovery tips after getting total knee replacement surgery and where you can go for the best knee replacement surgery in Connecticut and Massachusetts.
Take Time off and Rest
Recovery is a long road ahead, and getting proper rest is essential. Prepare your home and affairs in advance to accommodate your post-surgery needs.
Start with taking time off from work and other personal responsibilities. Ask a friend or loved one to drive you home safely after your surgery. Also, make sure you have stocked up on easy-to-make dishes and rearranged furniture before surgery to make your home comfortable. Remember to drink plenty of fluids too.
Manage Pain Effectively
Proper pain management can speed up your recovery effectively. Elevate and use a cold compress on your knee to reduce swelling. Also, limit your physical activity for the first few days after discharge.
Use support when using the stairs, and avoid lifting anything heavy or doing physical activities that strain your operative knee. Comfort is a must in your early stages of recovery.
Take your physician’s recommended medication if you are experiencing pain or discomfort, and don’t wait until the ache becomes unmanageable. Follow the instructions on when to take your medication. If you experience nausea from them, stop and contact your physician. Plan your medication accordingly so that you always have it in supply.
Take care of your incision according to your physician’s instructions. You should contact your healthcare provider immediately if the operative site shows signs of infection, including:
- Swelling
- Increased pain
- Warmth
- Redness
- Fever
Wear Your Knee Brace
After surgery, your surgeon may outfit you with a knee brace. Wear it in the first few days post-surgery to help keep your joint from unnecessary strain. Your doctor may also equip you with assistive devices for balance, such as walkers, canes, or crutches.
During your first follow-up appointment with your doctor, you may have acclimatized more to using these devices.
Engage in Exercise and Physical Therapy
Daily movements can help kickstart your recovery. Based on your case, your physician will prescribe simple exercises you can do at home or in an outpatient setting.
A physical therapist may guide you on how to perform physically-extensive activities correctly. Post-operation exercises vary depending on where you are in your recovery timeline. Short, frequent walks are also essential to a speedy recovery.
While exercise is vital in regaining your range of motion and strength, take care not to overdo it. Pushing yourself too hard and too quickly will just set back your recovery. Signs of over-exercising are swelling and lingering pain.
Total Knee Replacement Near You in Connecticut and Massachusetts
Do you need a total knee replacement near you? Advanced Orthopedics New England offers extensive and comprehensive treatments for orthopedic injuries and conditions. With offices in Hartford and Tolland counties, we provide the affordable quality healthcare you deserve. From conservative treatment to joint replacement, our state-of-the-art facilities and board-certified orthopedic surgeons can help improve your quality of life.
You may contact our friendly staff at (860) 728-6740 for more information on our treatments and services. We look forward to getting you back on your feet!
