Total Knee Replacement – 3 things you need to know before your surgery

Total Knee Replacement – 3 things you need to know before your surgery

Total Knee Replacement surgery is potentially an amazing solution for anyone struggling with knee pain which is making everyday activities a big challenge. There are many contributing factors which can cause knee problems, including bad diet, not getting enough exercise – or on the contrary – doing too much high-intensity exercise which overburdens the joints. If the total knee replacement surgery is something your Boca Raton orthopedic surgeon recommends, this article is for you. Keep reading to find out 3 things you need to know before your surgery.

1. The recovery starts BEFORE the actual procedure

Stronger muscles around the knee ensure faster and smoother post-surgery recovery so it is recommended you work on reinforcing the surrounding muscle tissue (such as inside quad muscle) before you undergo the surgery. Of course it is difficult to reinforce a hurting knee but try to find ways to get at least some exercise. Swimming is great as it doesn’t overburden the joint and – if done regularly – can significantly strengthen muscles around it. We also advise you to work with a Physical Therapist – together you can figure out the best way to prepare for the procedure without taking unnecessary risks. If you’d like to find out more about Physical Therapy provided at Orthopaedic Surgery Associates, visit our website or contact us directly.

2. Post-surgery diet

Good nutrition during the post-surgery period can make a significant difference in the way your knee recovers. Take extra care of the quality of food you consume during that time. In general, your body is weakened by the surgery and lack of exercise (which of course is difficult immediately after the surgery) so you need to give yourself a vitamin boost. Fresh fruit and vegetables, whole grains, beans, nuts and lean meat should be the basis of your everyday meal plan. Be sure to avoid foods that are rich in sugar and saturated fats as they can slow down your recovery. Of course, any alcohol is off-limits for at least a few weeks after the surgery.

3. Recovery timeline

Many patients are not aware of the recovery timeline and expect to be back to their normal activities immediately after the surgery. Of course, from a physical therapy perspective, it’s important to try to restore maximum range of motion as quickly – but safely – as possible. However, depending on your specific circumstances, your knee needs time to heal so your PT may at time remind you to take it easy! For a few days following the procedure, make sure to rest and avoid any fatigue. You can work with your PT on bending and extending the knee or take a few steps with crutches. Depending on your specific circumstances, rehab can be started almost immediately after surgery – however it will of course be adapted to match your abilities and surgical outcome.  At times it may be required to be patient. Most patients get back to normal functionality after around 6-8 weeks, but make sure to consult your Boca Raton orthopedic surgeon to check on your recovery progress.

Orthopedics Boca Raton – If you’d like to find out if you are a good candidate for the total knee replacement procedure or find out more about it, make an appointment with one of our Boca Raton orthopedic surgeons today.    

This article was written on behalf of OSA by RedCastle Services. Find out more about our SEO Orthopedics services.