Knee replacement surgery can be performed on patients who have badly damaged knees due to arthritis or other conditions. With knee replacement operations, the knee joint is replaced with an artificial joint. Knee replacement surgery is an intensive operation because the knees are responsible for bearing and supporting much of the body's weight. The recovery process after the surgical operation greatly affects the procedure's success and can determine the long-term strength and mobility of the joint.
Step 1
Move your leg and ankle as much as possible while in the hospital. This will help keep the blood flowing through your leg, which can help prevent swelling and will also reduce your chance of developing blood clots, which can cause serious post-operative complications.
Step 2
Take your pain medication as directed by your surgeon. Management of your pain is an important part of recovering from knee replacement surgery, the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons explains. If your pain is severe or begins to increase, you should contact your doctor.
Step 3
Care for the wound. The wound from the surgery will be closed with stitches or staples that will be removed several weeks after the surgery. Keep the wound clean and protected, and make sure that the dressings stay in place. The American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons recommends not soaking the wound in water until it has fully healed and the stitches are removed.
Step 4
Minimize swelling. When possible, keep your knee elevated above the level of your heart. You can also make an ice pack by placing ice cubes in a resealable plastic bag and wrapping them in a towel, KneeReplacement.com explains. Regularly applying an ice pack will help keep the swelling down and can improve your range of motion of the affected knee.
Step 5
Eat a balanced diet with iron supplements. Some appetite loss is normal after the surgery, explains the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons, but good nutrition is important for the recovery process.
Step 6
Perform the exercises that your physical therapist recommends. These exercises are important to help restore the strength to the joint and will also help support and stabilize your knee. Your therapist will give you an exercise routine for your joint, and the success of the surgery depends in large part on your adherence to these directions.
