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Recovery & Rehabilitation
Recovery & Rehabilitation
Now that your knee replacement surgery is over, it’s time to focus on your recovery and rehabilitation.
Resuming Daily Activities
Keep in mind that immediately after your surgery, it is normal to feel some pain and discomfort. However, the pain will subside quickly, and you may be surprised how soon you can be up and moving again. In fact, most doctors like to get their patients mobile as soon as possible after the surgery. You should be able to resume most normal light activities of daily living within the first 6 weeks after surgery, noting that it is normal to experience some discomfort for 3 months or longer post-surgery.
Walking
Usually, you are able to take full weight on your new knee joint immediately. You will most likely need to use crutches or a frame when you first return home. Your physiotherapist will advise when you are ready to walk without support based on your pain, strength and balance.
Stairs
You will need to be shown the best way to get up and down stairs and how to manage stairs from your Healthcare Professional.
Sitting
Use a high, firm-based chair with arms. Do not cross your legs. Consider a raised toilet seat.
Showering
Shower whilst sitting on a highchair or stool with rubber feet. As your balance improves, you may resume showering standing up.
Dressing
Remain seated to dry and dress. Long-handled aids can be useful in assisting you to manage this safely. Put the operated leg into your pants first when getting dressed. Take it out last when undressing.
Sleeping
Continue to sleep on your back. As pain allows, you may move to sleeping on your side with a pillow between your legs. Avoid this if possible, for the first 6 weeks.
Cleaning
Heavy or awkward cleaning tasks will be difficult at first. You may need to arrange for some help during the few weeks after returning home from hospital.
Car Travel
You should consider stopping and taking a short walk every 45 minutes. You should not drive until advised by your surgeon, which may be 6 weeks or more after surgery.
Exercises
Following your exercise program is critical. Exercise is essential for regaining strength, flexibility, and mobility after knee replacement surgery. Do your exercises regularly as instructed by your physiotherapy team.
Sexual Activity
Sexual activity can be resumed after surgery, remembering safe leg positioning. A member of your care team can answer specific questions you may have.
Return to Work, Sports and Travel
Returning to Work
You should not return to work until advised by your surgeon. How soon you return to work after surgery will depend on the type of work and recovery.
Sports and Leisure Activities
Your new knee joint is designed for activities of daily living, not high impact sports. Walking, swimming and cycling are recommended. High impact sports, such as jogging or running, playing tennis or repeated heavy lifting can affect the function and lifespan of your new knee joint. Speak to your surgeon or physiotherapist about your lifestyle and specific activity goals.
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This information is intended for residents of Australia only.
The information on this site is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Always talk to your doctor before you make decisions about your health.
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