A Guide to Recovery From a Knee Joint Replacement

The knee is the biggest joint in the body, supporting the body and movement in the lower limbs. Experiencing knee pain, whether sudden or lasting pain, can significantly impact one’s quality of life.

There are various non-surgical and surgical treatments available to alleviate knee pain. A proper diagnosis and an individualized treatment plan are necessary for each patient to alleviate knee pain.

Among these treatments is knee replacement surgery, also called knee arthroplasty. Knee replacements are the most common type of arthroplasties done in the United States. It involves replacing part or all of your knee joint with an artificial joint. This artificial joint used in the procedure typically has a lifespan of at least 15 to 20 years.

If you are eligible for knee joint replacement surgery, this article details the recovery process before and after the surgery.

How to Prepare for Surgery

Before the surgery, your orthopedic surgeon and their team will tell you what you need to do to be ready for the surgery. Here are examples of general practices done before getting knee replacement surgery:

• Comprehensive testing – These may include imaging tests, getting blood work done, and a physical exam. These can help your provider determine whether you are fit for surgery.
• Consulting your current medication – You may be advised to stop taking certain medications or dietary supplements before the surgery.
• Home modifications – Prepare your home to accommodate your post-surgery condition, such as removing tripping hazards like rugs.
• Physical therapy and exercise – Pre-surgery exercises may be advised to strengthen the muscles and ease recovery.

Post-Surgery Recovery Timeline

After monitoring your condition post-procedure, your healthcare provider will recommend when you can leave the hospital for recovery. The duration of the stay will be determined by your healthcare provider’s assessment.

Your orthopedic surgeon will also provide detailed post-surgery instructions and medication plans for you to follow at home.

Practices done during the immediate post-surgery period include:

• Wound care – Prevent infection by washing hands before taking care of your incision site and changing your wound dressing according to your provider’s instructions. Common signs of infection to look out for include redness, bad odor or discharge from the incision site, or fever.
• Ice and elevate the knee – These practices help reduce knee pain and swelling. You might be directed by your provider to a specific routine of icing and elevating your knee. A cold compression therapy (CCT) machine can simplify this process at home.
• Home exercises – Simple exercises done post-surgery will help your knee regain its mobility and prevent joint stiffness as you recover.

Pain Management for Knee Replacement Recovery

As you recover at home, your orthopedic surgeon will monitor and advise you on how to properly rehabilitate your knee after knee replacement surgery.

They will create a personalized pain management plan using a combination of techniques, such as prescribed medication and therapies, to aid in your recovery. Each pain management plan is unique to each patient’s needs.

Integrated into this treatment plan may include pain control techniques such as :

• Physical therapy – A specialized physical therapist can guide you through various exercises to improve your mobility and flexibility. Physical therapy also helps in familiarizing yourself with the new joint.
• Alternative therapies – Various alternative therapies, such as guided meditation, can complement your pain management plan after surgery. Your provider will advise you which techniques to integrate into your rehabilitation.

Returning to Daily Activities

Recovery looks different for each patient. Through follow-up appointments, your healthcare provider can monitor your recovery progress and help prevent further complications.

You may resume your daily activities gradually upon your doctor’s recommendation, such as low-impact activities to stay active. It is important to seek guidance from your surgeon to ensure that you can safely return to school or work.

You may be advised to modify certain parts of your day-to-day routine to lessen the physical stress on your recovering knee and accommodate your needs post-surgery.

Safe Joint Replacement Surgery in Columbia, MD

Knee replacement surgery can provide long-term pain relief and a better quality of life, but recovery largely depends on the individual patient’s case.

A successful recovery starts with a proper diagnosis from a trusted healthcare provider. At Orthopaedic Associates of Central Maryland, we offer compassionate and comprehensive knee pain relief services. For various knee conditions such as knee arthritis and ligament tears, our board-certified and fellowship-trained orthopedic doctors can provide partial and total knee replacement surgery to alleviate severe knee pain.

We also provide rehabilitation services, including individualized pain management plans and cold compression therapy (CCT) machines, to support your recovery after surgery.

If you or a loved one are considering safe knee joint replacement surgery, call our friendly offices today at (410) 644-1880 or toll-free at (855) 4MD-BONE. To see which location is nearest to you, you can visit our Locations. You can also use our secure online appointment request form for your convenience.

We look forward to helping you live life to the fullest!