Important Preparations That Will Make Recovering From Knee Replacement Surgery Much Easier

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When facing knee replacement surgery there are a few important things you'll need to know. For starters, this type of major surgery requires a recovery time that can last several weeks. Fortunately, there are preparations you can make to help this time of transition go smoothly. 

Choose Your Surgery Date Carefully

Ask your orthopedic surgeon how long you can expect to stay in the hospital before being transferred to either a rehabilitation center or a nursing home. This is typically three to four days. The goal is not to get moved on a Friday because then you may have to wait until Monday to begin physical therapy. This may not sound like a big deal, but in just a few days you can lose all the flexibility you gained from your physical therapy sessions in the hospital. 

Schedule Time Off From Work

Recovery time from knee replacement surgery is slightly different for everyone; however, four weeks is typically the norm. Discuss with your surgeon the type of job you do and he or she will be able to give you a better estimate. Some positions are labor intensive, and thus would require a longer wait before returning to your duties. 

Arrange for Help

While in the hospital and rehab facility, you'll have plenty of help. After two weeks, you'll most likely be discharged to continue recovery at home. It is best to arrange for a friend or family member to assist you over the course of the next week or two. You may need help getting to and from doctors appointments and physical therapy sessions, cleaning your home, and even getting in and out of the bath tub. 

Pick-Up Adaptive Equipment Ahead of Time

There are a few pieces of equipment that you will find invaluable after having knee replacement surgery. First, have a grab bar installed in your bathroom and pick-up a shower chair. Second, see if there is anyone you know who will let you borrow their walker or set of crutches. Third, you'll want a portable commode to have next to your bed. You may have someone to help you go during the day, but you won't be able to make it to another room if you need to go in the middle of the night.

By preparing ahead of time, you'll find that your knee replacement surgery becomes a little less stressful. Before long you'll be back to your old self again.  

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19 April 2016

Bones Leaving You in Pain? Find an Orthopedist Here

I'm not one to complain too much when my body hurts. But when I fractured my hip last year, I complained a whole lot. My broken hip kept me from being active in life. I felt completely helpless because I could no longer move freely or get around home without my family's assistance. After spending several months in pain, I saw an orthopedist for care. My orthopedist examined my fractured hip and found an infection in the joint. I underwent surgery to remove the damaged tissue and replace it with an artificial hip joint. Now, I feel so much better. My new hip gives me the freedom to move around again. If you have pain in one of your bones from injury or disease, read my blog. I show you how to find an orthopedist who can help you get back your life. Thanks for reading.