Surgical repair of the knee is sometimes not an option. Depending on the severity of your condition, the only way to recover knee function can be a total knee replacement. This is a complex procedure, and you need to adapt to a completely new body part and its function. That is why we can expect a lengthy recovery after this type of surgery, even in young patients.
What do you need to keep in mind after surgery to recover faster? In this article, you will find the answer. You need to know what to expect, understand the complications and warning signs, go through rehab, and contribute with a few lifestyle and day-to-day recommendations.
Knee replacement recovery
What can you expect after knee replacement surgery? First off, you will go through an observation period. During this time, you will have an oxygen mask and wait until the anesthetics’ effects wear off. In some cases, you might need a blood transfusion, which will be running when you wake up.
Looking down at your knee, you will find a large dressing, and it is likely to have a tube attached. This tube is meant to drain blood and other fluids from the inside of the wound.
In some cases, you will be able to walk on the same day. In others, you will have to wait 24 hours or more to stand for the first time. You’ll need crutches on your first walk, and you will probably feel different than before. It might feel uncomfortable, and your legs may feel swollen. This is normal and does not mean that the surgery went wrong. Still, you’re encouraged to talk to your doctor if any symptoms make you worried.
After two or three days, you’ll be granted clearance to return home. This time frame varies among patients according to their recovery process. When you’re at home, you might still feel very tired, but this is also expected, and you should have someone around to help for at least one week.
