A knee replacement surgery often referred to an arthroplasty procedure, consists of replacing the damaged knee parts which cause discomfort and pain by using metal or plastic components. In this way, surgeons can improve knee cushioning and allow patients walk and do different activities with ease.
Although osteoarthritis and other age-related problems are the most frequently cited reasons to undergo orthopedic knee surgery may be an option in situations of rheumatoid arthritis or knee injuries, or knee injuries. Based on the severity of the problem surgeons may suggest a total or partial joint replacement.
The entire journey of medical care starting with the initial consult with doctors until the final days of recuperation can be stressful and stressful for patients. While the procedure is in the control of orthopedic surgeons process requires the cooperation and support of the patient and family members. Therefore, it is essential to be aware of the process that takes place following a knee replacement procedure as well as what can be done to speed up recovery.
Tips for Recovering From knee replacement surgery
The recovery of knee replacements is a process that begins in the hospital in the hospital itself. While certain sufferers can be discharged from the hospital in a couple of hours after surgery, some require a stay of several days. After the surgery the hospital staff begin working on recovering. They ensure that patients receive the right medication at the appropriate time, and also engage in exercise by inducing them to move their feet, stand up and walk in tiny steps.
After being you’re discharged from the hospital the bulk of knee replacement rehabilitation is carried out at home. Patients and their relatives must take additional steps to ensure that the progress is achieved in the proper direction.
Here are some tips that can aid patients in quicker and better recovery:
1 . Regular Exercise
It may seem odd to think of exercise immediately following an operation. But it is the most efficient method for patients to return to regular activities as quickly as they can. Physical exercise also helps restore movement and helps strengthen the knee. Leg lifting and quads may initially be uncomfortable however they are vital for quick recovery.
2. Make use of a walking stick
It is advised to use a walker during the initial three to four weeks after surgery, as walking around normally could be dangerous and difficult. Walker lets patients move about without putting lots of stress on their knees and thereby avoiding any discomfort or swelling.
3. Do you use cold therapy?
The healing process after surgical knee replacement is slow and it is typical for patients to experience swelling and pain in the region of surgery. Ice packs that are applied several times per day can assist in decreasing swelling. One can choose to use hot treatment.
4. Follow the diet plan that is recommended
After surgery for an orthopedic knee, surgeons may suggest dietary adjustments to speed up recovery. For instance, eating nutritious fruits and vegetables is advised. Also, they recommend avoiding cigarettes and alcohol during the time.
5. Get Proper Rest
Patients have to fight their desire to get up and return to regular routines until their knee is fully healed. A proper amount of rest is vital to ensure that the knee is fully recovered within the timeframe expected. But, slumbering or sitting for prolonged time is not advised. Every two hours patients should be moving around for five to ten minutes. When sleeping, pillows under the knee need to be removed because they may cause in the knee being permanently bent.
6. Making proper arrangements
A speedy recovery requires some home preparations especially in the patients room. Since they’ll be unable to walk or climb stairs frequently, all essential things like bandages, ice packs medications, walkers and a cell phone, etc., should be stored close to them. Additional pillows should be kept in the room to ensure they can use them to lift the lower leg.
7. Beware of activities that could put stress on the knee.
Jumping, lifting heavy weights or skipping, running as well as other activities that place too much stress to knee joints should avoid at all cost. In lieu of participating in high-impact sports limit yourself to gentle workouts such as walking or stationary cycling.
8. Make sure to consult your surgeons frequently.
Patients should see their surgeon frequently and visit them at least twice per month to check the progress of their recovery. These appointments will determine if there are any issues with the knee, and consequently, avoid any problems in the near future.
9. Care for the wounds to avoid infection
It is vital to keep the wound free of infection until the wound is healed completely. The site of the incision must be kept dry since contact with water could bring in bacteria. In the event of changing dressings ensure that your fingertips are clean and dry-tap the wound prior to applying a new dressing.
10. Management of weight
Because knees are the most loaded joints, weight is an essential element in setting the pace of healing. Since patients spend a lot of time in the hospital following surgery, they could gain weight. The more weight they carry means that their knees will need to take on greater burdens and this can, in turn, cause a lot of strain on the surgical area. Therefore patients need to be mindful of their weight, train regularly, and follow nutritious meals.
Conclusion
Recovery from knee replacement surgeries can seem slow, and difficult however it allows individuals to move about without discomfort or pain. A proper medical treatment and care together with solid social support can aid in making the transition to life more comfortable and easier. Medanta is one of the top knee replacement centers in India and offers various types of surgical and medical aid for patients during their journey to recovery. For more information on knee replacement surgery make sure to get in contact the team at Medanta comprised of top orthopaedic surgeons right here.
