Post-Surgery Knee Recovery: Essential Tips for a Smooth Healing Process

Recovery after knee surgery requires attentive care. This guide offers essential tips, including elevation, medication management, gentle exercises, and wound care, to promote healing and prevent complications. Always follow your healthcare provider’s advice for a safe and successful recovery.

Proper post-operative care is critical after knee surgery for arthritis. Each patient's recovery is unique, so staying in close contact with your healthcare provider is essential. Here are some important guidelines to support your healing journey:

Start putting weight on both legs and walk around your home as you did before your symptoms began, but avoid prolonged standing.

Immediately after surgery, elevate your legs with pillows under your calves or feet, steering clear of placing anything under your knees.

As your strength returns, gradually reduce the use of walking aids.

Monitor pain levels and take prescribed medications to manage pain and swelling effectively.

Use anti-inflammatory drugs as recommended by your doctor, typically alongside pain relievers.

Perform approved exercises to maintain joint mobility, but consult your doctor before engaging in activities like swimming, jogging, cycling, or aerobics.

Wrap your bandage loosely around your calf and knee without tightening it excessively.

Keep dressings clean and dry, and follow your surgeon’s instructions before removing them.

Avoid sitting cross-legged for long periods, especially within the first six weeks post-surgery.

When showering, cover your leg with plastic to prevent water contact; check with your doctor about stitch or tape removal for dryness.

Elevate your leg while sitting and avoid twisting or kneeling on the operated knee.

Apply ice packs to minimize swelling and pain, ensuring dressings stay dry during application.

Seek medical advice if dressings become soaked, pain worsens, swelling persists, or fever develops.

Note: The information provided is for educational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider for personalized recovery guidance. While efforts are made to ensure accuracy, verify details with medical professionals, as third-party information may vary.