Precautions to take after knee replacement

After your knee replacement surgery, it is important to take caution in your knee movements, particularly during the initial months post-surgery. Gradually, you will regain your previous level of activity. Nonetheless, it is essential to continue moving with care to avoid any potential harm to your new knee replacement. You are recommended to prepare your living space in advance for your return, ensuring easier movement and minimizing the risk of falls.

In this article, we will provide you with several tips to make your movement easy and smooth after your knee replacement. But you have to consult with the best orthopedic surgeon in Ludhiana if you find any difficulty in mobility.

Post knee replacement: Cautions to take

Care of wounds

• As total knee replacement is a surgical procedure, staples or sutures will be present on the wound.
• You must refrain from attempting to remove these sutures at home.
• A skilled clinician will be responsible for removing the sutures after 2 weeks post-surgery. Any attempt to cut the sutures yourself may lead to a worsening of the wound.
• Prior to the wound being fully dried and sealed, avoid soaking it in water. However, you may continue to bandage the wound to maintain cleanliness and dryness.

Physical Therapy

• The physical therapist will assess various exercises including quad sets, dangles, leg extensions, and straight leg raises.
• The continuous passive motion (CPM) machine is a crucial tool for your rehabilitation.
• However, individual cases may vary, and we recommend consulting with a therapist for optimal results.

Preventing blood clots

• It is important to be aware of the possibility of blood clot formation in the initial stages of recovery. Therefore, your orthopedic surgeon may prescribe specific anticoagulants such as Aspirin and Warfarin to mitigate the risk.
• It is crucial to remain vigilant for any indicators of blood clot formation in the treated leg.
• These indicators may include excessive calf pain, redness, irritation, and tenderness above or below the treated knee and increased swelling in the ankle, calf, or foot.
• If you experience any of these symptoms, it is imperative to promptly contact the top orthopedic doctors in Ludhiana for timely intervention.

Take care of swelling

• Swelling in the knee can hinder the performance of range-of-motion exercises, crucial for recovery and rehabilitation.
• To alleviate swelling, patients may apply cold packs and elevate the affected leg as prescribed by a healthcare provider.
• Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can also be used for pain management and to decrease inflammation.

Treat pain

• Unmanaged pain can delay rehabilitation activities and potentially result in long-term pain.
• Individuals undergoing knee replacement surgery are encouraged to discuss post-operative pain and medication-related apprehensions with their healthcare provider.
• Collaboratively, they can develop a personalized pain management strategy that suits the individual’s needs, with the flexibility to make adjustments as necessary.

Physical activities

• After surgery, it is imperative to adhere to restricted physical activities to prevent any potential harm to the replaced joint.
• Detailed guidelines from the best orthopedic surgeon in Ludhiana regarding weight-bearing limitations on the knees will help in preventing injury, damage, or dislocation of the joint.
• Additionally, during the initial post-operative period, the use of assistive devices such as crutches, a walker, or a cane for mobility may be recommended.
• Other directives include:
  • Sitting only on chairs with seat heights aligning with the knees
  • Avoiding leg crossing or twisting
  • Limiting excessive kneeling
  • Minimizing prolonged standing
  • Refraining from sleeping on the side of the body
  • Ascending stairs one step at a time.

Avoid participating in sports

• It is advisable to avoid engaging in contact sports or activities that could potentially result in abrupt twisting or jerking of the knee during the recovery period after knee replacement surgery. These precautions are crucial for a successful recovery.
• In contrast, cycling, golfing, and swimming are recommended as ideal low-impact sports to maintain physical activity levels.

Regular check-up

• Maintaining a calendar can assist in ensuring timely attendance at your appointments with the doctor.
• Missing appointments can result in setbacks, so it is crucial to keep track of follow-up visits and make transportation arrangements as needed.
• You may be unable to drive for 4 to 6 weeks post-surgery, necessitating assistance in getting to appointments.

Long term care

• Individuals are strongly encouraged to adhere to their physical therapy regimen to maintain strong muscles surrounding the knee, thereby providing necessary support for the treated joint.
• It is important to take precautions to prevent infections, as they can enter the body through various means such as cuts, wounds, major dental procedures, or other surgeries, ultimately affecting the artificial knee and potentially requiring further intervention.
• Regular follow-up appointments with the surgeon are advised to monitor the treated knee’s condition and address any issues promptly, ensuring optimal functionality and minimizing the risk of complications.

The bottom line

Undergoing knee surgery may become necessary for you if you are experiencing severe knee joint pain. It is important to adhere to all post-operative instructions given by the top orthopedic doctors in Ludhiana to prevent any potential complications.