For any surgery to be successful, proper care and follow-ups are needed. For patients who have knee replacement surgery, care is exceptionally crucial. Here are a few ways that can fasten the recovery post-surgery.
Physical Therapy
Regular exercise designed to restore strength and mobility of the knee is essential. Therefore, the patient needs to consult a physical therapist who will help them get up and walk with either a walker or crutches. In addition, they will assist in practicing to climb stairs and provide instructions for a safe home exercise program.
Caring for the Incision
Doctors usually remove the surgical bandage after a few days. If sutures or staples are done on the incision, then make sure to keep them clean and dry until they're removed after surgery. Use our shower shields while in the shower that covers the incision, so it doesn't get wet. In case of adhesive skin closures, it's safe to use soap and water over your incision when in the shower. Avoid submerging the area in water until all the strips have fallen off and the incision is well healed.
Failing to keep the incision dry can result in:
- Redness around the incision
- Drainage from the incision
- Flu-like symptoms, such as fever and chills
Ways to reduce swelling
Blood circulation in the affected leg is poor after surgery, leading to a swollen knee, calf, and ankle. This can last for about 13 weeks on average, which reduces with each passing week.
Find the best ice pack for knee replacement surgery to reduce swelling and inflammation. Also, patients are recommended to elevate the legs and knees above the level of their heart four or five times a day for 15 to 20 minutes each time. Then, apply a cold pack to any sore or swollen areas for 15 to 20 minutes at least four or five times a day to get the best results. Even minimal walking can help bring down the swelling.
Ways to avoid blood clots
Keeping up with physical activity can reduce the risk of developing deep vein thrombosis (DVT) after the surgery. Try walking for short distances to improve blood circulation. Point and flex your ankles frequently while seated. Also, make sure to take prescribed blood-thinning medication like aspirin.
Cool Relief Has Ice Wraps
If you have someone scheduled for knee replacement surgery, please be prepared ahead of time and buy our ice wraps. We offer high-quality and affordable ice wraps, suitable for multiple uses. We are a USA Company based in Oklahoma that will ship out the product within 1-2 business days.