Knee arthroplasty, or total knee replacement surgery, is a life-changing procedure for the right candidate. Orthopedic surgeons can now use a minimally invasive technique to complete the surgery. As a result, the knee replacement patient can experience less pain, reduced bleeding, a lower risk of complications, and a faster recovery, as opposed to the traditional method of open surgery. Patients who undergo a total knee arthroplasty can make a recovery in just two to three months.
A knee replacement surgery is a major procedure. Patients should be serious about their recovery and rehabilitation. Here, we give you some tips that can help knee arthroplasty patients have a more comfortable recovery at home.
Follow Your Orthopedic Surgeon’s Instructions
You will receive post-operative instructions from your care team. You need to follow them closely if you want to have a successful recovery. The instructions are there to help increase your comfort and prevent complications that can slow or interrupt your recovery.
You will receive instructions about the incision care, rest and diet, medication, and activities to avoid. Your doctor will also provide you with specific guidelines on how much weight you should put on your leg while walking and when it’s safe to resume normal activities such as driving or returning to work.
Take it Slow
You are going to have to take it slow and focus on your recovery. You need to take time off work, during which, you give your incision and knee time to heal and do things you enjoy. You can plan ahead for certain activities, such as what movie to watch or book or magazines to read. This is a great time to catch up on your reading. Light walks with assistance are also good for the new joint and prevent stiffness, and of course, your recommended physical therapy exercises.
Use Ice Packs for Pain Relief
Applying an ice pack directly onto the knee can help reduce swelling and alleviate inflammation and discomfort after total knee arthroplasty. This is critical during the first few days. Make sure not to leave the ice pack on longer than 20 minutes at a time.
Strengthen the Muscles Around the Knee Joint
Strengthening muscles around the knee joint helps support its movement, so performing simple exercises taught by your physical therapist should be done as instructed. Initial exercises usually include quadriceps sets, straight leg raises, ankle pumps, and knee straightening exercises, which, while light, can make a big difference in regaining your knee’s full range of motion and flexibility.
Total Knee Replacement Surgery in Hartford and Tolland Counties, CT & Springfield, MA
The orthopedic specialists at Advanced Orthopedics New England offer comprehensive treatments for patients with knees that are damaged by disease or traumatic injury. Your orthopedic care team will consist of a skilled board-certified orthopedic surgeon and highly trained advanced practitioners who will see to it you get the best outcomes from treatment. Our orthopedic surgeons use state-of-the-art robotic-assisted technology that uses the NAVIO system for a more accurate fit of knee implants, so they perform and last longer.
To schedule an appointment with one of our knee replacement surgeons, call our office today at (860) 728-6740.