Management After Knee Replacement Surgery: Recovery Care, Exercises & Precautions

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Management After Knee Replacement Surgery

Knee replacement surgery (total or partial) is a highly effective procedure to relieve pain and restore mobility. Proper postoperative management is crucial to ensure optimal recovery, prevent complications, and regain knee function. Management after knee replacement involves pain control, wound care, physiotherapy, lifestyle modification, and long-term follow-up.

1. Immediate Postoperative Care (First 24–72 Hours)

Pain Management

  • Use of prescribed analgesics (NSAIDs, opioids if needed)

  • Regional anesthesia or nerve blocks as advised

  • Ice packs to reduce pain and swelling

Positioning & Mobility

  • Keep the operated leg slightly elevated

  • Begin gentle movements as advised

  • Use walker or crutches for support

Monitoring

  • Check vital signs regularly

  • Observe for excessive bleeding, swelling, or fever

  • Assess circulation and sensation in the operated leg

2. Wound and Infection Prevention

  • Keep the surgical dressing clean and dry

  • Follow instructions for dressing changes

  • Watch for signs of infection:

    • Redness

    • Warmth

    • Pus discharge

    • Fever

  • Complete prescribed antibiotics, if given

3. Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation

Physiotherapy is the most important component of recovery.

Early Exercises (Day 1–2)

  • Ankle pumps

  • Quadriceps tightening

  • Heel slides

Progressive Exercises

  • Knee bending and straightening

  • Strengthening of thigh and calf muscles

  • Balance and gait training

Goals of Physiotherapy

  • Reduce stiffness

  • Improve knee range of motion

  • Restore muscle strength

  • Achieve independent walking

4. Mobility and Activity Guidelines

  • Use walker or cane until balance improves

  • Avoid twisting or sudden knee movements

  • Gradually increase walking distance

  • Climb stairs using “good leg up, operated leg down” technique

  • Avoid sitting cross-legged or squatting (especially in Indian lifestyle)

5. Diet and Nutrition

  • High-protein diet for tissue healing

  • Adequate calcium and vitamin D for bone health

  • Plenty of fluids to prevent constipation

  • Maintain healthy body weight to reduce stress on the knee

6. Prevention of Complications

Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) Prevention

  • Early mobilization

  • Leg exercises

  • Compression stockings

  • Blood thinners if prescribed

Other Complications to Watch For

  • Persistent swelling

  • Severe pain

  • Reduced movement

  • Sudden breathlessness (seek emergency care)

7. Long-Term Care and Lifestyle Modification

  • Continue strengthening exercises lifelong

  • Avoid high-impact activities (running, jumping)

  • Prefer low-impact exercises:

    • Walking

    • Cycling

    • Swimming

  • Maintain regular follow-up visits

  • Inform doctors before dental or surgical procedures

8. Expected Recovery Timeline

  • 2–3 weeks: Reduced pain, improved mobility

  • 6 weeks: Walking independently

  • 3 months: Significant functional improvement

  • 6–12 months: Full recovery and maximum benefit

Conclusion

Effective management after knee replacement surgery ensures faster recovery, better mobility, and long-lasting joint function. A combination of proper wound care, consistent physiotherapy, balanced nutrition, and lifestyle adjustments is key to a successful outcome. Patient motivation and adherence to rehabilitation play a vital role in achieving the best results.

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