• Ice and elevate the knee to reduce swelling (20 min out of every hour or two, knee above the heart level)

• Pain management: Tylenol, Low dose Narcotic (if needed), Nausea prevention medication (if needed), Blood clot prevention (low dose Aspirin for about 4 weeks), Anti-inflammatory Medication (two weeks worth).
• Physical Therapy: 2 to 3 times a week
   

• Goal is to return the patient's range of motion. Physical therapy is crucial.

• Takes about a full year to recover strength and function after a knee replacement. The first 3 months being crucial and accounting for about 80% of that recovery.

• Infections, stiffness, and blood clots.

The hospital stay for knee replacement surgery varies. Some patients will stay longer or shorter depending on their specific situation. A full recovery typically takes 3-6 months. Knee rehabilitation begins right after surgery, as ordered by the surgeon. Physical therapist will instruct the patient to:

• Begin isometric exercises (tighten muscles without moving the joint) a number of times per day while still in bed. 

• Move ankle and other joints to remain strong. 

• Learn the safest methods of getting in and out of bed or a chair, and on and off the toilet. 

• Understand the do’s and don’ts of joint replacement recovery Rehabilitation Timeline. 

Rehabilitation after surgery plays an extremely important role in making knee replacement a success. Goals of Rehabilitation:

• Improve muscle strength 

• Increase the movement in knee joint 

• Protect new knee joint 

• Help resume most of normal activities

A patient will typically be able to walk unaided, just six weeks after surgery and return to work and everyday activities. After 12 weeks, patients may even perform low-impact activities such as golfing, yoga and swimming. With a knee replacement such as the ATTUNE™ Knee System and a strong commitment to rehab, patients can reduce their recovery time and get back to their favorite activities sooner.^3,4