Precautions to take after knee replacement surgery
Researchers have stated that every year 2.5lakhs people undergo knee replacement surgery in India. Mainly aged people opt for this surgery as it helps reduce knee pain and stiffness. Specifically, people having ligament tears, avascular necrosis, rheumatoid arthritis, knee deformities, and others require knee surgery.
Read along to learn about knee replacement surgery and its post-surgical precautions.
What is knee replacement surgery?
It is a surgical procedure that involves the replacement of damaged or worn-out knee joints with artificial joints or prosthetics. The artificial joints are made of metal and plastic. Before the surgery, the doctor carries out several tests to evaluate the condition of the knee and patient.
In India, Average knee replacement surgery costs range from Rs 1,80,000 to Rs 2,30,000. However, there are several reputed government hospitals where surgeries are performed free of cost. A knee replacement surgery has benefits but has several serious risks, like blood clots, nerve damage, and major infections.
What are the post-surgical knee replacement precautions?
Post-surgical care is a crucial part of the healing process. It helps in fast recovery and minimizes the risks of any complications. Aside, it also plays a vital role in ensuring the best possible outcome of the surgery.
Here are a few precautions that you need to take after your knee replacement surgery:
While getting dressed
• Do not wear your pants while standing just after your surgery.
• Wear loose and comfortable pants.
• Do not bend too much.
• Use additional tools like dressing sticks to pick up clothes from the floor.
• Do not rush or move your surgical leg too often.
While bathing/showering
• Wait for 7 to 10 days before you take a full bath.
• Use a shower sponge.
• You must not stand in the shower for too long. Instead, sit down on a chair carefully.
• Try to use a rubber mat inside the bathroom to make the floor non-slippery.
• Take the help of someone while bathing or using the toilet.
While sitting
• Avoid sitting in the same position for too long.
• Use chairs with backrests for sitting.
• Avoid using fancy chairs like rocking chairs, sofas, etc.
• Take the support of your walker while getting up.
While lying down
• Do not place any pillow behind your surgical knee.
• Always lie down on your back.
• Do not bend your knee while getting up.
While walking
• Always take the support of a walker or crutches.
• Do not put too much pressure on your surgical leg.
• Avoid taking big steps; instead, take small steps at a time.
• Wear shoes with non-skid soles instead of flip-flops.
Other than these, here are a few additional tips that you must follow after your knee surgery:
• Take care of your wound
• Avoiding blood clot
• Limit your physical activities
The Takeaway
Normally, the full recovery of knee replacement surgery takes around 12 weeks. However, many people recover within 4 to 6 weeks. A person with this surgery can never play high-impact sports or activities. Overall, a knee replacement cost is quite high, and an artificial knee lasts only 10 to 15 years. Thus, most doctors recommend this surgery to patients in their 60s to 70s.
