Getting a knee replacement is a major step towards regaining movement, independence, and a pain-free life. However, the journey is not over yet. Post-operative recovery is a crucial part of your knee replacement surgery and there are certain aspects to be careful about.
If you or a family member has a knee surgery scheduled, this blog is for you. We are going to take a look at the top 5 mistakes after knee replacement surgery and how to avoid them. At the same time, we’ll also discuss the significance of professional medical support after a knee replacement.
What Are the Top 5 Mistakes after Knee Replacement Surgery?
Knee replacement is one of the most common and highly successful types of surgeries. It helps knee patients get freedom from pain and improves knee function.
Once you are done with the surgery, one milestone is achieved. But the next milestone is to ensure an optimal outcome. For this, the importance of proper post-op care cannot be overemphasized.
Here we bring to you 5 common mistakes that patients make after a knee replacement:
Taking on Too Much Too Early
We expect ourselves to recover miraculously and get back to doing what we used to do years ago. What we tend to forget is that recovery does not happen overnight. Moreover, all of us are unique and heal at different paces.
If you start doing too much early on into your recovery journey, you are likely to slow down your healing. Well, this is in addition to unnecessarily landing yourself into pain and discomfort.
Don’t rush. Give time to your body to heal, go by your doctor-recommended recovery plan. Although most surgeons advise their patients about do’s and don’ts during their recovery journey, if you still have any doubts, do talk to your doctor again, and do accordingly.
It is time to be patient. Resume activities slowly as and when you are comfortable and as per your surgeon’s advice.
Skipping Your Physiotherapy Sessions
Your physiotherapist designs exercises tailored to your needs and surgical outcome. These exercises are a key aspect of your rehabilitation programme.
You may not feel like moving your knee because it may hurt in the beginning. But it’s vital that you do not give up! Also, you must not miss any session of physical therapy.
Moving your knee according to your physiotherapist’s instructions for a few weeks after your knee surgery will speed up your recovery by improving movement and range of motion in the operated joint.
With time, as your knee heals, you may want to start moving more and performing low-impact exercises. It’s always good to consult your doctor before doing so.
Ignoring Red Flags
Should you encounter severe pain (that does not subside with rest) while exercising or performing any activity, take it as a red flag, particularly if you find this pain hard to bear or if it worsens. Ignoring unbearable pain, inflammation, swelling, any instability in the operated knee could prolong your recovery.
Do discuss your condition with your doctor. They may prescribe some other medicine for pain relief, and also check if everything is alright.
Not Taking Prescribed Medication & Proper Care of the Surgical Wound
You must take proper care of the wound to prevent infection and related complications that may not allow you to heal fast. Watch out for signs like fever, discharge from the wound, or increased warmth/redness around the knee.
When you leave the hospital, your surgeon gives you instructions regarding wound care and how to keep it clean. It’s important to abide by those instructions.
Apart from this, not taking prescribed medicines can also hinder your recovery. So, be sure you take your pain killers and also medication for any existing health problem in a timely manner. If you experience any side effects or discomfort from medications, consult your doctor promptly.
Not Following Dietary Guidelines
Nutrition is essential to good health. And when you are in the recovery phase, it is all the more important. Post surgery, the body requires certain nutrients for effective recovery. Taking a nutrient-rich balanced diet can speed up recovery while also providing the energy for physiotherapy exercises.
After surgery, your body needs proteins, vitamins, and minerals in adequate amounts. While proteins help repair tissues, vitamins play a vital role in overall healing.
For proteins, you can include legumes, fish, eggs, cheese to enhance muscle recovery. To reduce inflammation, you can go for antioxidant-rich foods, such as nuts, berries, leafy greens.
Also, you should drink adequate water because proper hydration supports circulation and takes care of swelling. So, drink enough water throughout the day. Restrict intake of sugars and processed food items – they can cause inflammation and impede your recovery.
Our Tips for a Quick Recovery
- Keep moving and religiously perform recommended exercises
- Make sure you attend all your physiotherapy appointments
- Make use of walker (and/or stick) if your healthcare provider recommends so
- Post recovery, try to maintain a healthy weight to avoid stressing your new joint
Would like to get some sound knee replacement recovery advice? Have ‘knee doctor near me’ on your mind? Get in touch with trusted knee doctors and orthopaedic surgeons at Sohana Hospital, North India’s most trusted healthcare institution.
