Knee replacement is often a life-changing experience for individuals suffering from severe knee problems. Advancements in medical technology revolutionised knee replacement, and today we have robotic knee replacement surgery. The latter is a superior option because it offers greater precision, faster recovery, and better results when compared with traditional knee surgery. However, proper recovery is essential to ensure the success of any operation.
If knee problems are making life hard, it is important to get operated on. But what is the next important aspect? It’s a proper recovery. You should do the right things post-surgery to get back on your feet as early as possible. So, if you have recently undergone robotic knee replacement or have it on your mind, knowing the right recovery tips can help you heal faster and be mobile once again. Here we share some basic yet effective recovery tips to ensure that you have a smooth and speedy recovery.
1. Follow Your Doctor’s Post-Surgery Instructions
Your surgeon must have advised you beforehand what to do after surgery. Abiding by their guidance is paramount. Every individual is different, and so is their healing process. Hence, it’s essential that you take the prescribed medications, follow wound care instructions, and perform physical activity as per doctor’s advice.
Key Tips:
✔ Take prescribed painkillers and anti-inflammatory medications as instructed by your doctor.
✔ Keep the surgery spot clean and dry to prevent infection.
✔ Contact your doctor immediately if there is excessive swelling, redness, or fever.
2. Start Physical Therapy Early
Physiotherapy or rehabilitation exercises are necessary after knee replacement surgery. Physical therapy helps strengthen your knee(s), improves flexibility, and ensures a full range of motion so that you can start performing all the activities that you once did!
Key Tips:
✔ Begin with gentle (range-of-motion) exercises the way your physiotherapist tells you.
✔ Gradually take up strength-building exercises – to regain mobility.
✔ Attend regular physiotherapy sessions for faster and smoother recovery. Avoid missing physiotherapy even for a day.
3. Maintain an Active but Safe Lifestyle
Although rest is important, too much rest or staying inactive for too long can slow down your recovery. Controlled movement and light activities as directed by your doctor can improve circulation, prevent stiffness, and reduce swelling. Also, it boosts your confidence.
Key Tips:
✔ Take short, frequent walks around your home.
✔ Avoid sitting or lying down for long periods – move a little every hour.
✔ In the beginning, use a walker or cane to maintain balance, but slowly reduce dependence on these supports or as per your doctor’s advice.
4. Eat a Healthy and Nutritious Diet
A balanced diet helps improve your overall well-being. It also plays a major role in healing the surgical site, and strengthening bones, muscles, and tissues after surgery. A balanced diet boosts recovery while reducing inflammation.
Key Tips:
✔ Eat protein-rich food items for muscle repair. E.g. soy products, legumes, etc.
✔ Consume calcium and vitamin D (milk, yogurt, leafy greens) for bone strength.
✔ Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated. It also helps reduce swelling.
✔ Avoid processed foods and excess salt. It can cause inflammation.
5. Manage Swelling & Pain Effectively
There may be some swelling and discomfort after knee replacement. Taking care of swelling enhances your healing and mobility. You can adopt the RICE (rest, ice, compression, elevation) methodology for this.
Key Tips:
✔ Apply ice packs on your knee for 15-20 minutes, 3-4 times a day.
✔ Elevate your leg while sitting and lying to reduce swelling.
✔ Use compression bandages or stockings to prevent fluid buildup.
6. Get Plenty of Rest & Sleep Well
Rest is essential whenever we want to recover from any surgery. It promotes tissue healing and overall recovery. Adequate sleep helps reduce pain, boost immunity, and improve energy levels.
Key Tips:
✔ Try to keep your leg elevated while sleeping – to minimize swelling.
✔ Use pillows for support to keep your knee in a comfortable position.
✔ For the first few weeks, avoid sleeping on your operated side.
7. Avoid High-Impact Activities
While staying active is important, try to stay within limits. If you overexert yourself, it can delay recovery. Avoid activities that may put excess pressure on your new knee joint.
Key Tips:
✔ Avoid running, jumping, and lifting heavy objects during the first few months.
✔ Do simple exercises like walking, cycling, or swimming after talking to your doctor.
✔ Increase activity levels gradually – to prevent strain on the knee joint.
8. Take Care of Your Mental Health
Physical and mental well-being are closely related. So, recovery is not just physical—it’s also emotional. Some patients may feel frustrated, anxious, or impatient expecting an instant recovery. Just be positive and stay motivated for a faster comeback.
Key Tips:
✔ Set small recovery goals and celebrate your progress.
✔ Stay connected with friends and family.
✔ Practice deep breathing or meditation to stay positive and relaxed.
9. Regular Follow-Ups with Your Doctor
With routine checkups, you can make sure that your knee is healing properly. It also helps identify problems early, just in case any arise.
Key Tips:
✔ Do not miss any follow-up appointments.
✔ Talk to your doctor about any unusual pain, swelling, or stiffness.
✔ Confirm when you can resume all your daily activities. You might have started walking but you should seek permission for driving and climbing stairs, etc.
10. Be Patient – Recovery Takes Some Time!
Recovery after robotic knee replacement is faster as compared to traditional knee surgery. However, it still takes time and effort. Most patients have significant improvement within 4-6 weeks, but complete recovery may take somewhat longer.
Key Tips:
✔ Have faith and be patient with your progress.
✔ Perform all your exercises as instructed and adapt with lifestyle changes.
✔ Always keep in mind the long-term goal of robotic knee replacement – leading a pain-free, active life once again — don’t look for instant results – take your own time!
Final Thoughts
Robotic knee replacement offers immense benefits – greater precision, minimal tissue damage, and faster recovery – compared to traditional surgery. However, how you take care of yourself post-surgery plays a critical role in achieving the best results.
By following the easy recovery tips covered here, you can expect faster recovery, regain mobility, and return to an active life sooner. Stay in touch with your orthopedic doctor for proper guidance and support.
If you or your loved one is considering robotic knee surgery, consult trusted ortho experts at Sohana Hospital. We have breakthrough robotic knee replacement with the Cuvis Joint Robotic System as well as the traditional knee replacement surgery. Apart from that, our customized rehabilitation process helps you with quick healing so that you make a comeback to a normal routine sooner.
Make up your mind, and consult our expert orthopaedists today!
