Post-surgery care tips to recover from knee replacement surgery
Knee
replacement surgery, also known as arthroplasty, involves resurfacing damaged
knee components with substitutes made of metal alloy. The primary goal is to
relieve persistent pain and enhance mobility for individuals with compromised
knee function. Common reasons include osteoarthritis, age-related
issues, rheumatoid arthritis, severe knee injuries, or deformities.
Surgeons
assess the condition's severity to determine the type of replacement— total or
partial— for each case.
Who is eligible for
knee replacement surgery?
Patients experiencing severe knee pain, stiffness, or reduced mobility due to
conditions like osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis may consider surgery
after exhausting nonsurgical options. Orthopedic specialists evaluate patients
to determine the suitability of knee replacement surgery.
What is the recovery process and why is it
important?
After
knee replacement surgery, recovery occurs in stages. The immediate
post-operative phase involves close monitoring and starting physiotherapy in
the hospital. This is followed by rehabilitation at home, which includes
physical therapy and exercises aimed at regaining strength, flexibility, and
range of motion. Patients gradually transition to near normal activities, but
this process may vary in duration from patient to patient. Recovery after knee
replacement surgery involves active participation and support from patients and
their families. Managing post-surgery expectations is crucial for a successful
recovery trajectory.
- Post surgery pain management: Adhering to methods for managing post-surgery
pain, such as prescribed medications by the doctor and ice packs.
- Physical therapy and exercises: Adhere to the recommended physical therapy
regimen and exercises to regain strength, flexibility, and range of motion.
- Wound care: Follow proper wound care techniques. This includes keeping the
incision area clean and dry from any soiling, watching for signs of infection,
and following the doctor's advice regarding dressing changes.
- Assistive devices: Use assistive devices like crutches, walkers, or canes to
aid mobility during the recovery phase.
- Nutrition and hydration: Follow a balanced diet and adequate hydration to
promote healing and overall well-being.
- Stay in regular touch with your doctor and consult them if the pain persists.
Lifestyle
modifications
Making a few lifestyle changes can facilitate a smoother recovery after a knee
replacement surgery. Some of these include:
- Creating a safe and conducive environment at home
- Making adjustments to daily activities to avoid strain on the knee joint
- Incorporating low-impact exercises and activities recommended by healthcare
professionals
Follow-up care and consultations
Ensuring regular post operative follow-up appointments with your surgeon or
physical therapist post-knee replacement surgery holds immense significance in
the recovery journey. These consultations provide a crucial platform to discuss
any concerns or changes experienced during your rehabilitation phase. Inform
your doctor for any discomfort, unexpected pain, or alterations in your
recovery progress openly. Even seemingly minor changes could hold significance
and require adjustments in your treatment plan.
Further, caring for wounds to prevent infections, and considering weight
management are essential factors in the recovery process. These are integral
aspects of the post-surgery recovery process. These measures contribute to a
comprehensive strategy for a successful and monitored rehabilitation journey
after knee transplant surgery.
While recovering from knee replacement surgery is slow, it can yield
transformative results. Proper care, medical guidance, and social support can
significantly contribute to a smoother transition to activities of daily living.
Authored by: Dr. Attique Vasdev, Senior Director
– Orthopaedics, Institute of Musculoskeletal Disorders and
Orthopaedics, Medanta, Gurugram
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