Were you aware that, according to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, Americans get over 700,000 knee replacement surgeries each year?
Many patients experience swelling after knee replacement surgery. Even though this is normal, people still don’t like dealing with the lasting discomfort.
Are you wondering how you can get through the worst of your knee swelling? Read on for our full knee replacement recovery guide.
Why Does Swelling After Knee Replacement Happen?
After knee replacement surgery, the body reacts to the surgery by causing inflammation. This is the body’s way of healing. However, too much swelling can make it hard to move the knee.
It can also cause pain and slow down recovery. That’s why it’s important to learn how to reduce swelling.
Tips for Reducing Knee Swelling
Managing knee inflammation doesn’t have to be complicated. Here are some knee swelling tricks:
Use Ice Packs
One of the best ways to reduce knee swelling is by using ice. Place an ice pack on the swollen knee for 15 to 20 minutes, and do this several times a day.
Elevate Your Leg
Another simple way to reduce swelling is to keep your knee elevated with pillows. This helps the fluids that cause swelling to flow away from the knee. It’s best to elevate your knee several times a day, especially after walking or exercising.
Stay Active, but Rest When Needed
After surgery, you should try to move your knee as soon as your doctor says it’s safe. Gentle movement helps to reduce knee swelling and stiffness. However, don’t overdo it.
It’s imperative to find a balance between rest and gentle exercise. This is key for proper knee replacement rehabilitation.
Wear Compression Stockings
These special socks help reduce swelling by applying gentle pressure to your legs. This pressure helps prevent fluid buildup, which causes swelling. Be sure to wear the stockings as directed by your knee doctor.
Take Prescribed Medications
Your doctor may give you medications to help with knee pain and swelling. Over-the-counter medicine like ibuprofen can also reduce knee inflammation. Always follow your knee doctor’s instructions on when and how to take these meds.
Long-Term Post-Surgery Knee Care
Knee swelling can last for several weeks or even months, so you need to stay on top of your recovery routine. Regular check-ups with your knee doctor are important after knee replacement surgery. If knee swelling becomes severe or lasts longer than expected, be sure to let your doctor know.
Physical therapy is another way to keep your knee in top shape as you recover. The exercises help reduce swelling in addition to boosting knee mobility and strength.
Be sure to get as many healing nutrients into your everyday diet as well so your knee and the rest of your body can stay strong.
These Knee Replacement Recovery Tips Will Help
Managing swelling after knee replacement surgery is a key part of recovery. By following these knee replacement recovery tips, you can help reduce knee swelling and speed up your recovery.
Are you searching for the finest knee specialist in Boise? Contact Blackrock Orthopedics to schedule your visit. Our knee surgeons have decades of experience and complete hundreds of surgeries each year.