Knee replacement is one of the most successful surgeries today, giving relief for chronic pain, and improving mobility so people can live a fuller, more active life. Advancements in knee replacement include robotic technology, better surgical techniques, improved pain control methods, and wearable devices to track progress at home. Many healthy patients can now recover in the comfort of home after same-day outpatient knee replacement surgery.
Important Tips for Recovering at Home after Knee Replacement:
- Prepare your home before surgery. Remove tripping hazards, clear pathways for mobility devices, and have meals readily available. Move important items within arms reach, or consider purchasing a grabbing tool to extend your reach. Consider purchasing comfortable slip-on shoes with good traction.
- Have help from a loved one, friend or family member. The first few days will be the hardest. Your dedicated support person will help you on the road to recovery.
- Stop smoking or drinking excessive amounts of alcohol 4 to 6 weeks before surgery.
- After surgery, get up and walk. Walking helps prevent complications like blood clots, improves circulation, and keeps your joints limber. Most patients are up and walking hours after their surgery.
- Physical therapy is a crucial part of recovering from knee replacement surgery. Physical therapists are available for in-home patient visits for several days to work with the patient on the range of motion and flexibility exercises.
- Get the appropriate amount of rest, while keeping your leg elevated. Apply ice to help the healing process. Balancing rest and movement will help.
- Plan and eat nutritious meals. After surgery, your body will benefit by having essential nutrients to decrease inflammation during the healing process.
Preparation is an important part of your journey through a total knee replacement surgery. The team at the Oklahoma Joint Reconstruction Institute provides full orthopedic care with open communication between our providers and patients. We strive to educate each patient for better outcomes, and a better overall experience.
AUTHOR: Dr. Paul Jacob is a certified master surgeon in joint replacement and robotic joint replacement of the hip and knee in Oklahoma City. Dr. Jacob is recognized as one of the Top 3 Orthopedic Surgeons in Oklahoma, who has performed over 5000 robotic joint replacement procedures. Dr. Jacob is active in numerous research studies on joint replacement technology and robotic outcomes.
