Rehabilitation after knee replacement: Guidelines for actions and things to steer clear of
Knee replacement surgery, also known as knee arthroplasty, is a common procedure that involves recapping worn-out knee joint surfaces with an artificial joint or prosthesis. For a speedy recovery, it's essential to avoid high-impact, strenuous, and potentially damaging activities, and actively promote early, guided physical therapy and safe, low-impact movements.
Avoiding Potential Hurdles
Skipping or delaying physical therapy can lead to swelling, stiffness, and scar tissue formation. Overexerting too soon should be avoided as it can cause straining of healing tissues and delay recovery. Activities to avoid include heavy lifting, excessive walking, stair climbing, squatting, kneeling, twisting motions, running, jumping, and sports involving rapid direction changes. Sitting on low or soft furniture and prolonged static positions should also be avoided, as they can cause stiffness. High-impact sports, heavy weightlifting, deep squats, lunges, stair running, and vigorous pivoting or lateral movements should be avoided during the recovery period.
Promoting Recovery
Starting physical therapy as soon as advised by your surgeon (usually within 24-48 hours) and following a structured rehabilitation plan is crucial. Low-impact exercises such as straight leg raises, heel slides, quad sets, swimming, stationary cycling, and hydrotherapy help reduce swelling, increase range of motion, and strengthen muscles around the knee without excessive strain.
Changing positions frequently, every 45 minutes or so, prevents stiffness and maintains circulation. Using walking aids like a cane or walker early on and progressing gradually helps avoid a rapid return to intense activity. Engaging in gentle range-of-motion and balance exercises in the early recovery phase, gradually increasing activity intensity after about 3 to 6 months depending on individual progress, is also beneficial.
Considering aquatic therapy (hydrotherapy) can reduce joint stress, improve circulation, ease stiffness, and accelerate muscle strengthening and healing.
Supporting a Successful Recovery
Adequate protein and iron intake can support tissue repair and promote healing during knee replacement recovery. Doctors may recommend using assistive devices such as crutches, walkers, or canes to prevent falls and assist in recovery.
Proper wound care is essential to prevent infection during knee replacement recovery. People should follow their surgeon's instructions for cleaning and dressing the incision site. A healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains is important for healing and overall well-being during recovery.
Potential Complications and Precautions
Infection, blood clots, implant problems, stiffness and limited range of motion, nerve or blood vessel damage, allergic reactions, persistent pain, and general surgical risks are potential complications of knee replacement surgery. Ignoring pain or discomfort during recovery can lead to complications or infection. If a person notices signs of infection, such as redness, swelling, warmth, or discharge, they should contact their doctor immediately.
Smoking can hinder the healing process and increase the risk of complications during knee replacement recovery. Taking a blood thinner should minimize the risk of blood clots. People should consult their doctor or physical therapist for guidance on gradually resuming activities.
By the advanced recovery phase (3-6 months), most people have made significant progress in their recovery, with range of motion and strength continuing to improve, and activities of daily living becoming easier to perform.
Sources: [1] American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. (2020). Knee Replacement Recovery. Retrieved from https://www.aaos.org/news/aaosnow/oct20/research/research1.asp [2] Mayo Clinic. (2020). Knee replacement surgery: What to expect after surgery. Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/knee-replacement-surgery/in-depth/knee-replacement/art-20046569 [3] OrthoInfo. (2020). Knee Replacement Recovery. Retrieved from https://www.orthoinfo.org/en/treatment/knee-replacement-recovery/ [4] WebMD. (2020). Knee Replacement Recovery. Retrieved from https://www.webmd.com/pain-management/knee-replacement-surgery-recovery [5] Cleveland Clinic. (2020). Knee Replacement Recovery. Retrieved from https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/16775-knee-replacement/about/recovery
- Engaging in physical therapy post-surgery can help prevent swelling, stiffness, and scar tissue formation after a knee replacement surgery.
- For patients recovering from orthopedic surgery, certain activities like heavy lifting, excessive walking, running, jumping, squatting, twisting motions, and high-impact sports should be avoided.
- Achieving an optimal recovery from knee replacement surgery involves following a structured rehabilitation plan that includes low-impact exercises and therapies such as hydrotherapy, stationary cycling, and swimming.
- Chronic diseases like chronic kidney disease and other medical conditions must be managed during the recovery phase to prevent complications from knee replacement surgery.
- Adopting a healthy lifestyle through a balanced diet, adequate protein and iron intake, proper wound care, and guidance from healthcare professionals can support a successful recovery from knee replacement surgery.
