People are not well adapted to sitting around, so a patient recovering from knee surgery may find it difficult to recover. Because bodies do not heal the same, the recovery time from patient to patient will differ.
With nearly 800,000 knee surgeries performed each year in the United States alone, there are many knee surgery patients who try to shorten their recovery process, and increase their risk of complications. Of the mistakes that can be made, it’s important to be aware of the top five mistakes made after knee replacement surgery.
Let’s dive in.
What is Knee Replacement Surgery
Knee replacement surgery is a procedure that aims to improve the mobility and reduce the pain of a patient’s knee. It is a highly effective (and common) surgery with a longer recovery period - compared to other surgeries.
Those who seek knee replacement surgery as an option typically suffer from ailments like osteoarthritis. Other causes may be due to knee injury or previous military experience.
Top 5 Mistakes After Knee Replacement Surgery
It takes about one year, post surgery, to recover from knee replacement surgery - though patients can become physically active and resume everyday activities 6 to 12 weeks after surgery.
Knee replacement recovery time for elderly may be longer, or the need for a double knee replacement instead of single.
Still - impatience can lead to these top 5 mistakes after knee replacement surgery.
Skipping Therapy
Physical therapists are experts in the field of rehabilitation. It’s incredibly important to follow the prescribed exercises to recover.
Stopping Pain Medication Too Soon
Days after surgery, it’s important to manage your pain. While using pain management techniques are helpful, such as elevating your leg and setting on it, it’s important to take the prescribed medicine.
Whether it’s to reduce pain and swelling, or assist in the healing process, neglecting to take your medicine as prescribed can cause adverse effects in your recovery.
Stop Using Assisting Devices Too Soon
Walking assist devices aren’t the same as walking assistance free. However, they’re important in the recovery process as your body continues to strengthen the muscles around your knees.
My advice is simple: Don’t view walking assist devices as a hindrance to your recovery - think of them, instead, as a means in which you can regain your mobility as you heal.
Doing Too Much
It’s not easy reducing your activity - but doing too much can cause setbacks to your recovery. Remaining active is conducive to your recovery
If your occupation is not physically demanding, you may be able to return to work when you have been given the clearance to drive. However, it’s important to adhere to your doctor’s and physical therapist’s recommendations.
Not Having a Post Op Plan
Charles Duhigg, the author of The Power of Habit, reflected on the Scottish Study conducted in 1992 by one of the busiest orthopedic hospitals. In it, they studied a group of patients who were recovering from hip and knee surgery.
What they found was that the ones who recovered the fastest - knowing that recovery was going to be slow and painful - wrote a plan they adhered to.
Those who didn’t write out a plan, recovered slowly or not at all.
Write a post-op plan, or meet with our team to help you through your recovery process.
Frequently Asked Questions About Knee Surgery
When Can You Drive After Knee Replacement Surgery?
While some patients have been able to start driving 2-6 weeks after surgery, an assessment by your surgeon or physical therapist will provide a clearer answer to your recovery.
What is Partial vs Full (Total) Knee Replacement Surgery?
A partial knee replacement is what it sounds like - a knee replacement surgery in which only a part of your knee is replaced by either metal or plastic components.
A total knee replacement occurs when the entire bone is resurfaced or replaced.
Pros and cons of partial knee replacement?
Benefits of partial knee replacements include less pain, better functional outcomes, and smaller incisions for surgery.
Disadvantages of partial knee replacements include only 50% of patients being eligible for this surgery and the chance further surgeries may be needed.
How long does a partial knee replacement last?
A partial knee replacement lasts 10-15 years - about the same as a traditional knee replacement.
Can You Run After Knee Replacement?
Running is a high-impact activity that may not be suitable for knee replacement patients. Other activities, such as rowing, cycling, swimming, and yoga may be better suited to patients.
