What is the post op care of a total knee replacement?
You will need a walker or crutches for two to three weeks and possibly a cane for a few more weeks. You are to perform the flexion and extension exercises two to three times per day. When sitting, you should keep the leg elevated and out straight most of the time during the first few weeks after surgery.
What should I do after joint replacement?
Wound care. Avoid getting the wound wet until it has thoroughly sealed and dried. You may continue to bandage the wound to prevent irritation from clothing or support stockings. Swelling may occur up to one year after surgery. If you experience swelling, limiting your activities and elevating your new joint can help.
What is the most common complication after joint replacement?
Pain may be the most common complication following knee replacement surgery. It’s normal for patients to experience some degree of pain up to six months after surgery. But if pain persists past six months after the procedure, it’s generally considered to be long-term, or chronic, pain.
How long does it take to recover from joint replacement surgery?
Most patients can return to a job within six weeks following surgery, depending on the demands of the position. If you do have a more demanding job that requires lifting, walking, or travel, you may need up to three months for full recovery.
How soon do you walk after knee replacement?
You will probably be able to walk on your own in 4 to 8 weeks. You will need to do months of physical rehabilitation (rehab) after a knee replacement. Rehab will help you strengthen the muscles of the knee and help you regain movement.
How can I elevate my knee after surgery?
For knee replacement, you will need to elevate the leg to help reduce swelling. It is important to elevate the entire leg, down to the ankle. When elevating, your feet should be above the level of your heart. You may also use pillows to elevate, but never place a pillow behind your knee.
Which is a serious complication for patients undergoing a joint replacement?
Possible Complications of Joint Replacement Surgery Infection around the prosthesis. Blood clotting. Malfunction of the prosthesis (may be caused by wear and tear, breakage, dislocation, or loosening) Nerve injury (although rare, nerves in the surrounding area may become damaged during the surgery)
How can I manage pain after knee replacement surgery?
To help manage discomfort or pain after your surgery: lie down, raise (elevate) your surgical leg and put cold packs around your surgical knee at least three times a day; see the home exercise program page for more instructions. You may have trouble sleeping.
What should I expect after calf replacement surgery?
Apply ice for 20 minutes, 3 to 4 times a day to help reduce swelling. Call your surgeon right away if you have an increase in calf pain. You will likely have a decrease in energy after surgery. Make sure to balance your activity with rest and continue with your home exercise program. You will have some pain, discomfort and stiffness after surgery.
When can I return to work after knee replacement surgery?
Follow your knee precautions if you have them. Visit recoversex.com for more information about resuming sexual activity. You may be able to return to work 4 to 6 weeks after surgery, depending on your type of work. You may want to consider going back to work gradually and starting with half days.
What can I do to reduce swelling and pain after surgery?
You may experience the most swelling 7 to 10 days after surgery. Raise (elevate) your leg above the level of your heart by placing a pillow under your calf or ankle, not your knee. Apply ice for 20 minutes, 3 to 4 times a day to help reduce swelling. Call your surgeon right away if you have an increase in calf pain.
