Tips for Knee Replacement Surgery
Are you thinking about a Total Knee Replacement Surgery? Have you been told you have arthritis and need surgery?
First off, don’t panic! StrongerLife has helped lots of people avoid a knee replacement but in some situations, it is a good option and can help tremendously.
If you’re leaning towards getting one, you should read this helpful advice from a StrongerLife member who recently had a total knee replacement surgery. Keep in mind, that this is NOT medical advice. The following was posted in our Private StrongerLife Members Facebook Group.
“Here’s my bionic knee at my 3-week check-up!” -Ann S.
“Several people have been curious about my recent knee replacement, since they may be needing the same. I took notes during the first two weeks.
Equipment you might want to consider getting:
Front Wheeled Walker (tennis balls for “feet “ so as not to scratch your floors; small clear bag to hang on walker to easily carry things
Long-handled shoe horn
Slip on shoes, loose-fitting shorts/pants
BREG Polar Care Wave (or something similar) there are attachments for hip, shoulder, knee, etc. I suggest freezing 12 water bottles to use instead of ice cubes. The BREG holds 4 bottles at a time, so you will have a constant supply ready to use. My insurance didn’t cover this, but it was well worth the $$$$
Shower chair and shower mat
Ask your Dr. about the possibility of a prescription for a RomTech stationary bike (it’s rented and many insurance companies will cover the cost including Medicare.)
Keep a big water container near any place you sit-keep hydrated!
TENS/EMS unit for pain relief/muscle stimulation.
Miralax -good to have around in case you have problems going to the restroom
Takeaways & Reminders:
Exercise! Consider exercising your FULL-TIME JOB! Don’t make excuses.
Think about comfort foods you would enjoy after surgery. Macaroni & cheese was my favorite. You can make some dishes ahead of time. Remember apples, watermelon, etc.
Drink lots of water!
I found club crackers were terrific to have around.
Stay ahead of your pain by taking your meds regularly. Don’t wait for the pain to start. Stay on a routine. I found the day after surgery was not too bad, but the next few days were rough in terms of knee pain.
I liked keeping the leg lifter strap close by. (I often kept it on while in bed.)
Hang a clear bag in your Walker for glasses, phone, etc.
Clear the floor of mats, rugs, and other trip hazards prior to surgery.
If you have a smartwatch, consider setting a “stand” reminder alert each hour. You can use the stopwatch feature to keep track of how long it’s been since you had a pain pill.
Have a chart to keep up with the different medications and frequency
Spa Day-I would plan my Spa Day as a way to pamper myself. Use Press N Seal wrap to cover your bandaged incision. Use a favorite soap, play some music, have a favorite soda, etc. to make it more enjoyable.
Ice for other parts of your body! Other areas of the body may become aggravated due to less motion. Example-back Mention any concerns to your PT for suitable exercises.
Nerve regeneration in the knee typically starts somewhere around day 5-7. This is normal. Your nerves begin to ‘wake up’. It feels like a jolt of electricity. Sometimes it made me involuntarily jump. It’s okay. This body response gradually diminishes.
Rx refills-don’t wait until your prescription is gone before contacting your doctor! Call at least 48 hours ahead.
Closing Thoughts:
Don’t be in a rush to ditch the walker! Your main objective is to protect yourself from falling.
I’ve had a hip replacement before my knee surgery. The recovery following the knee replacement has been much more involved and lengthy. The pain level following the knee replacement was most intense starting day 2 and continuing for the next 6-7 days. It gradually tapered off. What remained was tightness in the knee. That continues to be a focal point in my rehab. It is not something that can be rushed. It takes time.
I hope you will find one or more of these suggestions useful. It has meant so much to me to hear from friends and family during this time. Our StrongerLife family is wonderfully supportive and encouraging. I am so thankful.”
By StrongerLife Member - Ann Humphries Shaw
