Helpful Tips for the First Week After a Total Knee Replacement Surgery

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The first knee replacement surgery took place in 1968 and since that time it has become more common with an estimated 600,000 total knee replacements (TKA’s) occurring annually in the United States. It is one of the most successful operations in all of medicine thanks to advances in the materials and surgical techniques used. These improvements have resulted in shorter hospital stays; however, this means that more responsibility is placed on the patient in managing their own recovery. The toughest period can be the first week after surgery so we thought it helpful to provide the following tips to help you make it through.

Keep the Joint Moving

This is arguably the single most important piece of advice to remember. Maintaining continual, mild movement of the joint is critical for several reasons. First, and this may sound counterintuitive, the movement will help to improve pain. Normally we may think that we need to rest joints and muscles to help relieve pain, but recently repaired joints will actually hurt less with motion. The gentle movement also serves to circulate blood and prevent clots and reduces swelling. Just keep this in mind – “The more you move, the faster your recovery will be.”

Focus on Knee Extension Range of Motion First

Knee extension also called the knee straight, is the most crucial motion that you need to focus on during your post-surgery recovery. After a total knee replacement, your leg will be prone to remain in a bent state and therefore resistant to being straightened out. However, investing the time into knee extension/straightening will be essential to building and maintaining knee stability, decreasing stress on the supportive ligaments around your knee, and to ensure proper functionality of the quad muscle.

Manage Swelling

While some swelling can actually be a good sign during recovery, too much swelling can increase pain and knee stiffness and lead to a decrease in range of motion. Therefore, knowing how to manage your swelling will be of the utmost importance. Just remember the acronym M.I.C.E. – that stands for Movement Ice Compression and Elevation. Your doctor will likely prescribe medications that will help in controlling inflammation so be sure to take them as directed in order to keep your swelling in check. You can also keep swelling at bay by applying ice and pressure (compression bandage) to the knee when you are resting it. Additionally, elevating the knee when you are resting can help temporarily reduce blood flow to the joint and thereby help to decrease swelling.

Get the Muscles Working

Surgery essentially shuts muscles “off” and it is your job during your recovery period to turn them back “on” and get them to working again. Don’t worry so much about building strength, focus instead on continual movement. You should bend, straighten, and squeeze the muscles at least once every waking hour. This will help them gain more function and gradually increase strength.

Don’t Ditch the Walker too Early

Everybody wants to ditch the walker early on because it reminds them of their own mortality. However, we highly encourage you to keep your walker at least until you are no longer limping. If you get rid of the walker before your body is ready, you could very well end up walking with a bent knee that will lead to scar tissue formation, muscle contractures, and damage to other joints nearby. So stick it out with the walker or a cane for a little while longer than you’d like and you’ll be rewarded by having fewer mishaps down the road.

Conclusion

The first week after a total knee replacement can be the toughest time period of the entire recovery process. However, if you implement the strategies we’ve outlined above you will be better equipped to handle whatever challenges you encounter and you will be well on your way to quickly regaining your knee function and quality of life.


New Mexico Orthopaedics is a multi-disciplinary orthopedic clinic located in Albuquerque New Mexico. We have multiple physical therapy clinics located throughout the Albuquerque metro area.
New Mexico Orthopaedics offers a full spectrum of services related to orthopedic care and our expertise ranges from acute conditions such as sports injuries and fractures to prolonged, chronic care diagnoses, including total joint replacement and spinal disorders.
Because our team of highly-trained physicians specialize in various aspects of the musculoskeletal system, our practice has the capacity to treat any orthopedic condition, and offer related support services, such as physical therapy, WorkLink and much more.
If you need orthopedic care in Albuquerque New Mexico contact New Mexico Orthopaedics at 505-724-4300.