6 Self-Care Tips for Post-Knee Surgery Recovery

6 Self-Care Tips for Post-Knee Surgery Recovery : Are you scheduled to have knee surgery in the near future? If so, then it’s important to start preparing for your post-surgery recovery now. Depending on the extent of your surgery, recovery time can vary.

But, by following these six self-care tips, you can make the process as smooth and comfortable as possible.

Use Your Assistive Device

After surgery, you may feel stiff and sore. Some post surgery knee pain is normal, but it can make simple activities difficult to complete. Using an assistive device for movements like standing up by yourself can help keep you safe during your recovery.
Stay Active

During the first few weeks after surgery, you may feel more tired than usual. Staying active will not only help you stay healthy during your recovery, but it will also make the process go faster. Walking is considered to be one of the best kinds of exercise for knee replacement patients, so keeping up with this simple activity can be a great way to maintain a steady recovery.

When you can’t walk due to your surgery, try these other alternatives:
- Water therapy – It provides cardiovascular benefits while easing arthritis pain and strengthening muscles. Look for a local pool with a deep end that is 1 foot or higher than the shallow end so it is easy to get in and out of the pool.
- Stationary cycling – It keeps your heart rate up, creates a great cardiovascular workout and helps strengthen leg muscles. Make sure to use an exercise bike with wheels that lock when you stop pedalling so it won’t roll away from you as you work out.
- Using an elliptical machine– It allows you to work out your upper and lower body at the same time without putting too much pressure on your knees. Make sure to pick a machine with adjustable resistance, grip and stride settings so that it’s suitable for all of your workouts during recovery.
Use Protective tape on your incision

Daily use of Medipore tape on the incision line can provide protection and security. You should wait at least 24 hours to reapply, but for maximum benefit, leave the tape in place through showers and baths.

Avoid getting your tapes wet during exercise or any other strenuous activity. If you get the tape wet, let it air dry.
Use Your Assistive Device

After surgery, you may feel stiff and sore. This is normal, but it can make simple activities difficult to complete. Using an assistive device for movements like standing up by yourself can help keep you safe during your recovery.

The type of device that is most effective will vary depending on the extent of your surgery and on your personal preferences. Talk with a physical therapist or the physician who performed your surgery to help you determine which device is best for you.
Get Plenty of Rest

During your recovery, it’s important to take care of yourself so that you have enough energy to exercise other self-care activities. Getting plenty of rest is an essential part of sustaining your strength during recovery. You may also experience more aches and pains than usual, which can make sleeping difficult.
Limit Your Chores

During the first few weeks after surgery, you may have trouble bending and lifting objects. This is not a good time to do any large household chores. If your knee replacement surgery allows for it, ask a family member or friend to help with things like grocery shopping, preparing meals and picking up around the house so that you can work on strengthening your muscles instead.
Reduce Stress

Your body produces cortisol when you are stressed, and since this is a natural reaction to pain or injury it will be important for you to find ways to reduce your stress levels during recovery. Finding time for activities like reading, listening to music, meditating or simply relaxing on the couch can help manage stress and improve your mental health.

Conclusion

After a total knee replacement, it’s important to take the necessary time to recover and rehabilitate.

By building a playlist of calm music, making sure you have all of your assistive devices ready to go and performing exercises that don’t put too much strain on your new joint as you heal, you can feel confident as you recover.