Knee surgery – whether minor surgery like arthroscopic surgery or major surgery like knee replacement surgery –can be a life-changing process, and the recovery process after the surgery can be challenging. But, with the right mindsets and a few helpful tips, you can make the most of your recovery time and get back to your regular activities as quickly as safely possible.
Whether you are a seasoned athlete or someone simply looking to get back to your daily routine, you can follow these simple tips to ensure a smooth and speedy recovery.
#1 Follow Your Orthopedic Surgeon’s Instructions
Following your surgery, your orthopedic surgeon will give you specific instructions, including how to care for your incision, manage pain, and avoid activities.
Your orthopedic surgeon may prescribe some medications like pain relievers and antibiotics to ease post-surgical pain and reduce the chances of infection. They may also advise you to monitor your wound for swelling and inflammation and avoid certain physical activities that involve stretching or bending your knee and standing for prolonged periods.
Following these instructions carefully is critical to ensure a successful and smooth recovery. If you fail to follow your doctor’s instructions, you might experience complications and adverse effects that can prolong recovery beyond the normal time frame.
#2 Get Moving
Once your doctor allows you to put weight on your repaired knee joint, take a light walk several times daily. Walking and moving your knee will improve circulation, ensuring that your treated knee area is getting enough oxygen and nutrients to heal quickly. You can use canes or walkers as a walking aid.
Even if you cannot walk, move your knee a little to increase blood circulation toward the repaired knee.
#3 Do Physical Therapy Exercises
After a major surgery like knee replacement, your body may have to relearn how to use knee joints. Your physical therapist can help you with this. The physical therapist may perform and teach you exercises that focus on the range of motion, strength, conditioning, and similar aspects of recovery. They may also teach you how to use your new joint. So, make sure to attend all your physical therapy sessions.
#4 Get Enough Rest
Rest after knee surgery is as necessary as exercise is. Avoid activities that may put unnecessary strain on your knee.
Research has found that a lot of restoration and strengthening happens during sleep. So, make sure you get plenty of sleep.
#5 Eat a Healthy Diet
Following surgery, your body needs essential nutrients to repair itself. A healthy diet can provide all the necessary building blocks for healing. So, incorporate nutrient-rich food such as fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains in your diet to provide the essential nutrients your body needs to recover from surgery.
Knee Surgery in Lauderdale Lakes, FL
Do you have persistent knee pain and limited knee function? Visit us here at Total Orthopaedic Care, where we have board-certified orthopedic doctors in our team who are experts in treating a comprehensive range of knee injuries and conditions. Our orthopedic surgeons use advanced techniques and procedures to avoid tissue damage and ensure a quick and comfortable recovery. We will also give you tips and information to hasten your recovery.
If you would like to know more about us or want to make a consultation, call us today at (954) 735-3535 or schedule an appointment using our online appointment request form.
