Dos and Donts After Knee Replacement Surgery

If you’ve recently undergone a Total Knee Replacement (TKR) surgery, then congratulations on taking the important first step to better health.

Although this is an essential medical procedure for those suffering from ongoing knee pain and other issues that impede mobility, having TKR surgery can be a bit daunting.

As an orthopaedic expert with years of experience helping patients through their TKR journey, We want to share some essential tips that will help ensure the best possible outcomes post-surgery.

Read on to learn more about what you should — and should not do — during your recovery process after TKR surgery!

Quick Overview Of Total Knee Replacement Surgery (TKR)

TKR surgery is a type of orthopaedic surgery that replaces or resurfaces the damaged parts of the knee joint with artificial components.

This helps restore movement, reduce pain and improve quality of life for people suffering from severe arthritis or other knee problems.

The new joints usually consist of metal plates, plastic spacers and small medical-grade screws.

Do's after TKR Surgery:

1. Follow Your Surgeon’s Instructions :

Your surgeon will provide you with specific instructions regarding post-operative care, so make sure to follow them closely in order to ensure a safe and successful recovery.

2. Take Your Prescribed Medications as Directed :

It is essential to take any prescribed pain medication or anti-inflammatory drugs  exactly as directed by your surgeon.

This will help manage any pain or discomfort you may experience and reduce swelling in the knee joint.

3. Start Physical Therapy :

Physical therapy is a key component of successful recovery from TKR surgery, so make sure to follow your therapist’s instructions closely.

Your physical therapist will provide exercises that are specifically tailored to increase strength and mobility in your new knee joint.

4. Elevate Your Leg When Resting :

Elevating your leg helps reduce swelling, improve circulation and prevent fluid buildup in the knee joint — all essential for recovering from TKR surgery.

Try using pillows or a foam wedge to prop up your foot while sitting or lying down.

5. Sleep In a Comfortable Position :

In order to help prevent any pain or discomfort, you should aim to sleep on your back or side with a pillow between your legs.

This will ensure that the new knee joint is properly supported while you rest.

Don'ts After TKR Surgery:

1. Don’t Cross Your Legs :

Crossing your legs can put additional pressure on the new knee joint and cause undue stress and discomfort. So, it’s important to avoid this type of movement for at least 6 weeks after surgery.

2. Avoid Activities That May Strain the New Knee Joint : 

Aerobic exercises and activities such as running, jumping and high-impact sports should be avoided during the recovery period.

These activities can cause undue strain on the new knee joint, hinder your healing process and even lead to further damage or injury.

3. Don’t Overdo It :

Though physical activity is important for a successful recovery, it’s also important not to overdo it.

Listen to your body and take breaks when needed in order to ensure that you don’t overexert yourself and cause further harm.

4. Avoid Bending your Knee too Much :

Bending your knee more than 90 degrees should be avoided during the initial phase of recovering from TKR surgery as this could put additional stress on the new joint and increase pain or swelling.

5. Don’t Ignore Signs of Infection :

If you experience fever, increased pain or swelling around the new knee joint, contact your doctor immediately as this could be a sign of infection.

Ignoring these warning signs can lead to serious complications and even compromise the success of the surgery.

Following these simple tips will help ensure that your recovery after TKR surgery is safe, effective and successful.

Your surgeon will monitor your progress and provide any additional instructions if needed – so make sure to ask questions if there’s anything you don’t understand! With proper care and attention, you can look forward to living a full life with your new knee joint. 

Best wishes on your road to recovery!