Introduction:
Joint replacement surgeries involve hip and knee replacement procedures. The full knee replacement surgery or hip replacement surgery are elective process and one can prepare themselves much before the surgery. An individual’s lifestyle changes before and after knee replacement surgery as one can relieve the pain, restore function, and be with a working joint.
Road to recovery:
Even though it takes time to return to daily activities, being active can help an individual reach the target of faster healing. Advancements in surgical techniques such as minimally invasive procedures, robotic-associated techniques, and advanced postoperative care have led to faster recovery, fewer hospital stays, and healing after knee replacement surgery. However, the road to healing does not depend only on the surgery, it also depends on the patient’s age, the supportive care they get from their caregivers, and the physical participation of the patients outside the operating area.
Postoperative period:
As joint replacement surgeries such as full knee replacement surgery and total hip replacement surgery are not planned, one can also plan and prepare their surroundings to suit the environment before and after knee replacement surgery. The patient and the caregivers such as a spouse or partner or an acquired help play an active role in the patient’s recovery. The present blog delves into the various to fasten recovery and reduce postoperative difficulties after orthopaedic surgery.
Immediate postoperative period:
After the full knee replacement surgery, the individual is taken to a recovery room where the health care team will make the individual walk. One can use a walker and should have someone beside to prevent sudden falls. The first two weeks after surgery is a difficult phase after total knee replacement surgery as there will be immense pain and difficulty in movement. The next 1 month after knee replacement surgery, pain and stiffness reduce and one can start using a walker as they gain more strength and increased movement. One can do regular exercises and resume everyday physical activities after the second month of orthopaedic surgery.
Tips to optimize recovery:
Recovery after total knee replacement surgery or hip surgery depends on the health condition before surgery. The phase before surgery is crucial to set the stage for successful recovery.
- Start with a healthy nutritious diet that controls the blood parameters and reduces health complications after total knee replacement surgery.
- Continue doing routine exercises that increase physical resilience and reduce postoperative complications.
- The patient and the caregiver should familiarize themselves with the surgical process and the postoperative care requirements by participating in educational or awareness programs so they can effectively face potential complications after full knee replacement surgery.
- Pain and swelling are inevitable after orthopaedic surgery. This can be reduced by taking medications regularly. The patient and caregivers can prepare a medication schedule by keeping reminders or alarms that remind them about medication timings.
- Swelling can be managed by using ice packs that can be purchased and stored before and after knee replacement surgery or made by freezing a wet cloth to apply over the area.
- While using a walker the caregiver should be sure that the surroundings are safe for the patient to move without any obstacles. This can be done by changing the position of the furniture in the home and reducing the number of rugs or floor mats that can trip the patient.
- Avoid climbing steps in the initial days unless suggested by the healthcare providers. The caregiver should lend a supporting hand while walking after total knee replacement surgery.
- Slowly and gradually increase the distance or the number of steps while walking. Follow the healthcare provider’s instructions on the pace, frequency, and number of walking steps.
- The success of total knee replacement surgery or hip surgery depends on active engagement in structured physical therapies. These are necessary to restore strength, mobility, and function.
- Regularly attend physical or occupational therapy sessions to increase strength and resilience. The caregiver can help the patient by scheduling regular appointments and assisting them during the therapy sessions.
- The patient and the caregiver should understand the necessity of practicing physical therapy sessions at home. The caregiver must know the exercises to help the patient while doing them at home for faster recovery after total knee replacement surgery.
- Take help from the caregiver while changing the dressing and bathing in the initial days after surgery. The caregiver can also help them in daily activities like eating, dressing, and sleeping. Proper sleep and a healthy diet are necessary for faster recovery.
Spending time with each other also gives the psychological strength and motivation for faster recovery. Caregivers should also be empowered with adequate knowledge and tools for patient safety and caregiver well-being. Using virtual reality-based rehabilitation programs relieves the burden on the caregivers. The patient and the caregivers should work as a team for faster recovery after total knee replacement surgery or orthopedic surgery. For expert care and advanced rehabilitation programs, visit Fortis, the best hospital in India, for comprehensive support throughout the recovery process.
