It can be exciting to look forward to a new knee. No pain and easier movement? Yes, please! But it can also be overwhelming to plan a total knee surgery. There is a lot of information to sort through, and while the nitty-gritty details are important, we have narrowed down our knee surgery tips and facts to a list of the top 10 things our total knee surgery patients need to know below. At ORTHOKnox, we hope to take care of you every step of the way. Don’t hesitate to reach out with questions!
10 Things Every Total Knee Surgery Patient Needs to Know:
Let’s focus on the big picture. What are some things you should know about total knee surgery?
- Rehabilitation begins day 1 of your surgery (sometimes before), so be ready to start getting your new knee used to working!
- Following your physical therapist’s rehabilitation routine is key to your quick and complete recovery.
- Knee replacements reduce your risk of injury from falling because you will be more stable. While we love to see our patients, we would rather see you out on the town than in the office with an injury!
- Say goodbye to the pain you have been living with and hello to a more active lifestyle after your knee surgery. Most patients feel a welcome decrease in knee pain after surgery.
- With less pain, comes better sleep. With better sleep, comes a more productive and enjoyable day. Sleep is key to your overall health and wellness, so your knee surgery will benefit your entire body.
- If you feel the need to be more active after your knee replacement, do not hesitate to exercise and get in shape. Knee surgeries can benefit your overall health and reduce your risk of cardiovascular disease by removing an excuse (albeit a good one) not to be active.
- You can return to most activities within 3 months after surgery. This varies from patient to patient, but most patients are surprised by how quickly they are back on their feet!
- You will need someone to take you home after surgery and care for you for a week or so. You may feel capable after your surgery, but rest is a part of recovery, so accept help if it is offered.
- You will want to prep your home before surgery by removing tripping hazards, placing things where you can easily get them, and stocking up on meals or setting up a meal train.
- Exercising and getting in shape before surgery can improve the outcome of your knee surgery and help with recovery. Consider biking, swimming, or another low-impact exercise. These are great post-surgery activities, too!
Where should I go for total knee replacement surgery in Tennessee?
With clinics in Knoxville, Tennessee, and Athens, Tennessee, and its on-site physical therapists, board-certified surgeon, and Urgent Orthopaedic Care that is available without an appointment, ORTHOKnox has got you covered. For more information about how ORTHOKnox can perform your knee surgery, call (865) 251-3030, or fill out our easy-to-use online appointment request form. We look forward to hearing from you!
