FAQS on Total Knee Replacement Surgery Recovery
If you’ve been struggling with pain and instability in your knees, your physician may have already talked with you about the benefits of having a total knee replacement procedure. While conservative treatment options are always preferred over a surgical approach, in some cases, especially when severe knee arthritis is resulting in bone-on-bone friction within the knee, a total joint replacement is indeed the best solution. Talk with your doctors about the specifics of this procedure and find out if it is the right option for your case.
After all, if you’re going to make the decision to pursue a surgical treatment option, it’s important to know what you could expect during the recovery process.
FAQS on Total Knee Replacement Surgery Recovery
If staples were used , these are removed 2 weeks after surgery and another post-op visit is scheduled for 4-6 weeks out to check the incision site and progress
A blood thinner may be prescribed for you to take for up to 6 weeks after surgery
Talk to your physician about the plan for pain medication
Icing and elevating your leg several times per day can help reduce swelling, although swelling is normal for up to 6 months
Bruising, swelling and numbness around the incision site are all normal following surgery
Your physician may recommend that you use a cane to support your weight as you begin to walk on the new joint (which can happen as soon as the day after surgery)
You’ll leave the hospital with instructions on activities to delay and how to properly exercise your knee
If you’re having your right knee replaced, plan to have someone else available to drive you around for an entire month following your procedure
Total Knee Replacement Surgery Recovery for Athletes
For those patients hoping to get back to their active lifestyle during their total knee replacement surgery recovery, there’s good news! While you’re building strength and regaining range of motion, you can gradually get back to your activities. Soon enough you’ll be ready and able to fully participate if you choose to do so, but allow your new knee the chance to regain strength and stability as you gradually build up your activity level. Rothman Orthopaedic Institute physicians also caution their knee replacement patients not to play in wet weather.
For even more details on recovery and specific tips on how to get back to your active lifestyle quickly, call Rothman Orthopaedic Institute today to schedule a visit with one of our knee specialists. The number here is 1-800-321-999. We look forward to hearing from you!
1 of 1
