What to Expect After Knee Replacement Surgery

Are you also waiting for time to pass after your Knee Replacement Surgery?

After going on this path of pain-free Knee Replacement Surgery, each individual waits for a full recovery as soon as possible to resume their life and get back to routine. Most of the patients can take leave from the hospital within 1-5 days. This time frame varies according to the prevailing conditions. There is a need for assistance during this time, so our doctor, who specialises in Knee Replacement Surgery in Ahmedabad, will guide us about What to Expect After Knee Replacement Surgery to be mentally prepared for life after Knee Replacement.

The First 24 Hours After Knee Replacement Surgery

You will be on anaesthesia while you are in the surgical procedure. Soon, you will get up from anaesthesia, and gradually, the numbness will move out while you feel your legs again. Furthermore, your doctor will work to manage your pain with the help of a method called multimodal analgesia. It helps reduce the pain and also acts as a defence against the side effects.

If your pain is under control within 24 hours, then your physical therapist will help you stand up and take a few steps using a walker. It is essential to do quite a bit of leg movement to get back the recovery faster.

what to expect after knee replacement

Leaving the Hospital After Knee Replacement Surgery

Your stay in the hospital will last according to your pace of recovery. Going home on an early basis is not a good sign. Wait for the surgeon's instruction for the best result. Here are some goals you must achieve before going home :

  • You must be able to get in and out of the bed by yourself.

  • You can't leave if the pain caused to you is not bearable.

  • You should know how to use the assistive walking device so that it helps to walk a certain minimal distance.

  • It is a must that you should be able to do the routine work like eating and using the washroom.

  • Your body should support you in the performance of the prescribed home exercise.

  • Make your mind clear about any precautions you need to take to prevent injury and ensure proper healing.

If you have not yet accomplished these goals, then it is safe to stay at the hospital. If in case, you are discharged from the hospital early, then the healthcare team will make sure that there is required assistance for you at your home.

Preparing for Home After Knee Replacement Surgery

Here is how you should prepare home for your arrival after the exhausting journey of knee replacement treatment.

  • Create a clear path by moving a bit of furniture if required. Do not jump in using stairs at the very beginning. Consider using a downstairs room as your bedroom.

  • For safety purposes, you can install a shower chair for better comfort.

  • Avoid going to any slippery area that can be dangerous for you.

  • Arrange a comfortable chair for you with a higher-than-average seat.

  • You should have a friend or family member to stay around in case of sudden uncertainties.

Wound Care After Knee Replacement Surgery

It is essential to take proper care of your wound to avoid infection. Firstly, ensure that the area of the wound is always clean and dry. The dressing is done by the doctor, and as per the instruction given, change the dressing accordingly. Make sure that you are aware of the dressing instructions.

Always check for any sign of infection. If you find any redness or drainage, then contact your doctor as soon as possible. By following the instructions given by your doctor about wound care, you can ensure a proper healing process of your wound with no complications attached.

Swelling After Knee Replacement Surgery

During the first few days of recovery, you might observe swelling around the treated part. It is a very normal part of the recovery process. A mild to moderate swelling remains for about 3 to 6 months of surgery.

To manage your swelling, try applying an ice pack around your affected area. Also, try to elevate your leg while sitting or sleeping.

In case of severe pain due to swelling, consult your doctor for the best advice.

Medication After Knee Replacement Surgery

Completion of Knee Replacement Surgery is not the complete journey. The leftover journey is the recovery stage connected to it. After Knee Replacement Surgery, taking medications is essential for your recovery. Medicines are prescribed to manage pain, prevent blood clots, and ensure smooth recovery. So, do not show any laziness when it comes to self-care.

Take your medicine on time for quicker recovery.

Diet After Knee Replacement Surgery

Does diet matter after Knee Replacement Surgery?

Yes, it matters a lot!

Diet plays an essential role in the recovery journey after Knee Replacement Surgery. A healthy diet will help you even feel better every day.

By the time you go home, in most cases, you will be able to have your regular diet. Your doctor might suggest you have more intake of iron and vitamin-rich food. It helps in a more healthy and quick recovery process.

Staying hydrated is one of the most focused factors for the overall recovery. Also, remember that alcohol can interfere with your medications and slow down your recovery. So avoid alcohol as much as possible. Lastly, maintain a healthy weight so that there will be less stress on the new joint.

Here, we come to an end of talking about - What to Expect After Knee Replacement Surgery. After this journey of ups and downs, stay in contact with your doctor until and unless you have fully recovered. Maintain a healthy self-care routine for a quick recovery. You do not need to worry, as Dr Ateet Sharma has years of experience being the best Orthopedic Surgeon in town. He and his team have guided many individuals through their recovery process.

If you face any issue in your journey of Knee Replacement, remember we are just a ring away.

All The Best for Your Recovery!

© 2024 Dr.Ateet Sharma All rights reserved. | Manage by  Nexus