Mar 13, 2019

Tips for Adjusting to Life After Knee Replacement Surgery

Archive.

Knee replacement surgery is often necessary in order to allow a person to continue living a healthy, active, pain-free life. Along with a new knee, comes some lifestyle changes and adjustments. Below, we will discuss some of the things you can expect post-knee surgery, and what you can do to make sure you are living your healthiest life.

Working

It will probably take some time for you to get back to a normal work routine, but once you do, you will need to go back slowly to ensure that you don’t hurt yourself more or disrupt the recovery process. Plan on taking a good amount of time off work, and be patient as you recover.
If possible, consider working from home once you are starting to recover.  If your job requires physical labor, don’t push yourself to work before you’re ready.

Traveling

Traveling may be difficult for a while, because it may be hard to sit in a position that allows your leg to stay stable if you are in a car or an airplane. You will also need to wait a bit before you are able to drive. Consider waiting to travel until your knee has completely recovered.

Exercise

Many people choose to do some kind of physical therapy as part of the recovery process. Small exercises that your physical therapist give you can be beneficial as you recover. However, you should wait to go fully into your regular workout routine until you have been cleared by your doctor.
Stick closely to your doctor’s recommendation about exercise. Once you have started recovering, it is a good idea to move around and even do some light exercise, but you don’t want to push yourself too much and disrupt the recovery process.

Things to Keep in Mind

Because knee surgery is a major operation, there are some adjustments you may need to make in everyday life. People often overlook some of these things in the recovery process, but it is important to be aware of the things mentioned below, as well as any additional advice your doctor gives you so that you make a quick and full recovery without any further complications.
Dental work – After a major operation like knee replacement surgery, your body is extra susceptible to infection.  You may need to take antibiotics before you get any dental work done, so make sure you talk to your doctor and dentist about what steps you can take to keep you free from infection.
Medications – Your doctor will go over with you which medications you should and should not be taking during the recovery process.  You will likely be on some pain medication in the first few weeks after the operation, and certain other medications should not be mixed with pain medication.  Make sure you follow your doctor’s orders and recommendations about medication so that you don’t experience any further complications.
Knee surgery may be a great option for you! But as with any operation, it is important to know what to expect during the recovery process so that you can do your best to ensure that you return to normal life as quickly and simply as possible.

Sign up for our newsletter!

Get the Latest news, tips, and resources from Crisp Regional Hospital.