The Dos and Donts After Knee Replacement Surgery |
Posted: December 7, 2021 |
Our knee joints are one of the most overworked body parts that are often overlooked until they collapse in need of knee replacement surgery. The relentless pounding that our knee joints endure throughout our lives can lead to severe osteoarthritis and other knee complications. Knee replacement surgery focuses on restoring knee function by reducing localized pain and inflammation and improving mobility. The restricted range of motion and hampered functionality of your knee joints is restored by replacing them with an artificial knee joint. The success of your knee replacement surgery depends on the efficacy of the post-surgery rehabilitation process focussing on strengthening and stretching muscles. However, some exercises may do more harm than good, making it essential to be mindful of the movements that need to be performed and those that must be avoided after knee replacement. Exercises/Movements To AvoidKnee replacement surgery is used to help patients regain their former knee strength allowing them to carry out their daily activities without pain. Soon after your knee replacement surgery, you may be tempted to resume your usual routine; your recovery must refrain from high-impact exercise and movements. Some of these high impact activities include: Movements Involving A High Risk Of FallingOnce you have undergone a total knee replacement surgery, it is normal to experience loss of strength, limited range of motion, and a hampered sense of balance that increases the risk of falling. A fall comes bearing a severe risk of damaging the prosthetic knee joint or hampering the healing process. Simple movements like walking without recommended walking aid can lead to falls requiring corrective surgery. Your doctor may suggest some lifestyle changes to reduce the risk of falling, such as:
Prolonged sittingExtended periods of sitting after knee replacement surgery increase the risk of developing blood clots, especially the first two weeks following your surgery. Prolonged sitting can also inhibit fluid drainage in the lower leg worsening the swelling. It is recommended to avoid sitting for more than 60 minutes in the first week after knee replacement surgery. If your job requires sitting for long periods, it is advisable to prop the surgical leg on a chair to maintain healthy blood flow and minimize swelling. Excessive Weight-Bearing Shortly After SurgeryIt is advisable to use assistive walking devices such as crutches and walkers after a knee replacement surgery. While your orthopedic surgeon may encourage some light weight-bearing exercises to mobilize freshly operated knees, such as getting out of bed and moving around a little bit, you may need assistance from a nurse or a physical therapist during the first week of your recovery process. Another essential thing to remember is avoiding stairs until suggested by your doctor. When going up the stairs, use your unoperated leg to lead; alternatively, lead with the operated leg when going down the stairs. When using the stairs post knee replacement surgery, it helps to keep in mind that, The good goes up; the bad goes down! Running And JumpingRunning and jumping exert immense pressure on a knee joint, hampering your recovery after a knee replacement surgery. Running can put up to three times more pressure than walking, which can delay your knee’s healing or damage the prosthetic knee. Your doctor may discourage you from participating in high-impact activities even once your replaced knee has completely healed. High Impact SportsWhile gymnastics may be out of the question for you, avoiding participating in contact sports or activities that may require twisting or jerking of the knee is advisable, especially when recovering from knee replacement surgery. Some of these activities include:
However, low-impact activities such as cycling, golf, and swimming are excellent ways to mobilize your knee and stay active. KneelingOnce you have undergone a total knee replacement surgery, almost 60-80% of people report difficulty bending their knees and experiencing the inability to kneel completely. There isn’t any clinical evidence suggesting kneeling impacts the longevity of your prosthetic knee joint, but if kneeling gets uncomfortable for you, avoiding it would be the best for you and your freshly replaced knee joint. Which Exercises Are Beneficial Post Knee Replacement Surgery?Most knee replacement rehabilitation plans focus on improving your knee’s range of motion while strengthening your quadriceps muscles. Your knee replacement surgeon curates a customized plan to build your strength back. The recommended activities according to the different recovery phases are as follows: Immediately after surgeryRight after you leave the operating room, simple exercises are recommended to help you regain your knee mobility. These exercises can range from bed-supported knee bends to knee straightening exercises by placing a small rolled towel under your heel and contracting the muscles above your knee, followed by knee straightening. These minimal impact exercises are used in combination with a physical therapist teaching you to use assistive walking devices that help take off pressure from your freshly operated knee. Three months after surgeryThree months post your knee replacement surgery; you will be able to return to most of your daily activities along with low-intensity exercises such as:
6 Months After SurgeryOnce you have crossed the six months mark on your road to recovery, you would find it easier to perform more intense activities such as doubles tennis, slightly heavier weight lifting, and dancing. However, it is still essential to consult your doctor before rushing into strenuous activities. Parting WordsExercising is an integral part of the recovery process post your knee replacement surgery while being mindful about the activities you should avoid to facilitate comprehensive healing. If you are experiencing knee pain, the first step is to find an experienced knee replacement surgeon. Rathi Hospital is a multispeciality hospital located in Satellite Ahmedabad, equipped with state-of-the-art surgeon equipment and top knee replacement surgeons who can help you lead a life free from pain. If you are unsure which activities are safe, it is always best to ask your knee replacement surgeon. Contact Rathi Hospital today to learn more about our specialties and services. We love to hear from you! Please share your experience with knee replacement surgeries in the comments below.
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