Have you recently undergone knee replacement surgery? Then, do not panic! There are some do’s and don’ts that you should keep in mind.
“Knee difficulties can occur as a result of osteoarthritis, knee injuries, swollen and misshapen knees, or pain that prevents a person from doing daily activities comfortably,” said Dr Pramod Bhor, Director of Orthopedics and Robotic Joint Replacement Surgeon, Fortis Hospital, Vashi.
“The goal of knee replacement surgery is to restore the weight-bearing capability of a knee joint that has been damaged, worn out, or diseased. Its primary goal is to reduce discomfort and improve movement,” he added.
According to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, knee replacement surgery was performed for the first time in 1968. Improvements in surgical materials and techniques have substantially boosted its effectiveness since then.
“This medical procedure is also known as knee arthroscopy or knee resurfacing. An individual can choose this operation to relieve discomfort and improve your quality of life. If you have had knee replacement surgery,” suggested Dr Bhor.
The Do’s One Must Follow
Exercise without fail
“Engaging yourself in physical activities following surgery is a vital component of the recovery process. Starting the day after surgery, participating in these activities will yield numerous benefits, such as facilitating a faster recovery, strengthening the new knee, promoting early mobility, and restoring the range of motion,” said Dr Bhor. As per Dr Bhor, these exercises may also cause discomfort, they are recommended for your overall improvement.
Take the help of a physiotherapist who will guide you regarding suitable exercises. Adhere to the guidelines given by the expert only.
Use a walker or stick
“After surgery a walking aid such as walker or stick is recommended for 4-5 weeks till you achieve complete mobility with physiotherapy and rehabilitation. Months after the surgery. This helps in reducing added pressure on the knee, and helps in the healing of soft tissue and muscles thus reducing the pain and favouring early rehabilitation,” Dr Bhor advised.
Also read: Weak Knees: Causes, Signs & Tips To Keep Them Healthy
Choose hot and cold compress
If one notices pain or swelling after the surgery then opt for heat and cold therapy after consulting the doctor. The doctor will tell you how to go about it.
Eat well after the surgery
After undergoing knee replacement surgery, prioritising a healthy diet becomes paramount. Eating fruits and vegetables abundant in vitamins and nutrients is key while ensuring sufficient hydration. It is crucial to refrain from alcohol consumption as it may impede the recovery process. Furthermore, diligently following the surgeon's prescribed guidelines is of utmost importance. Cut down on junk, processed, and canned food. It is also advisable to drink enough water to stay hydrated.
Take rest
Knee replacement surgery is a daunting endeavour. Furthermore, the journey of recovery post-surgery can be arduous. To ensure timely recovery, it is imperative to provide adequate rest to the body. Also, get a sound sleep at night.
These are the don’ts after the knee replacement surgery
Avoid sitting for a longer time
After undergoing knee replacement surgery, it is important to refrain from sitting for extended periods of time for at least four weeks. And, it is advisable to take short walks or engage in light movement every two hours. While rest is crucial during this time, excessive sleeping should be avoided in favour of getting up and staying active, as it plays a vital role in the recovery process.
Make some modifications at home to prevent falls
Take Precautions to Minimise the Risk of Falls Following your surgery, there might be difficulties in walking normally. Nonetheless, it is essential to address this concern by taking necessary actions. It is vital to recognise that an imbalance can significantly heighten the chances of experiencing a fall. Also, explore various protective measures like incorporating nightlights for visibility purposes, placing a bath mat and implementing anti-slip measures on slippery areas, opting for a raised toilet seat for added stability, wearing non-skid socks for enhanced grip and considering the installation of grab bars in both the bathroom and toilet area.
Also read: Feeling Weak In The Knees? Here's What It Could Mean
Do not put pressure on the knee
According to Dr Bhor, in order to prevent complications and promote recovery, it is recommended to avoid lifting heavy objects until fully healed and instead engage in full-body movements when turning rather than twisting the knee. He further said that if the patient is overweight, it is advisable for them to follow a medically supervised plan aimed at reducing weight as this can help minimise stress on the knees.
Say NO to high-impact activities
Dr Bhor advised to steer clear of high-impact sports, even if you have successfully managed to alleviate the pain and swelling post-surgery. Take charge of your well-being by avoiding any activities that involve regular twisting motions.
Rather than engaging in high-intensity sports, follow the guidance provided by your surgeon and engage in exercises like cycling, walking, or swimming which can help you stay fit and rebuild muscle without subjecting yourself to excessive impact.
