How to Prepare for Recovery After Knee Replacement Surgery

More than 850,000 Americans undergo knee replacement surgery each year. The procedure is safe and usually well-tolerated, and it restores mobility. But recovery takes time. Preparing before going to the hospital can provide peace of mind and support healing. 

At North Valley Orthopedic Institute in Mission Hills and Tarzana, California, Dr. Ramin Ganjianpour specializes in knee replacement surgery. Here, we explain how to prepare for recovery after knee replacement surgery.

What’s knee replacement surgery?

Knee replacement surgery is a minimally invasive orthopedic procedure that replaces some or all of your knee joint with an artificial joint made of metal or plastic. It’s an effective way to relieve knee pain, stiffness, and limited mobility caused by arthritis or traumatic injury.

Most patients stay in the hospital 3-4 days after knee replacement surgery. You complete the healing process at home, so prepare in advance. 

4 ways to prepare for recovery after knee replacement surgery

Waiting until the last minute to plan your recovery increases the risk of complications, so being prepared is smart. Here are a few easy ways to get started:

Declutter

After knee replacement surgery, you must use a mobility device, like crutches, a rollator, or a walker, to assist with walking and other movements. If furniture, boxes, or electrical cords block pathways in your home, you might suffer a fall or another injury.

In the days before your operation, clean your home. All rooms should have a clear path in and out, and all hallways and stairwells should have at least 3 feet of space to walk through. Wrap up any electrical cords and store any clutter that presents a trip hazard out of the way.

Set up a recovery room

You’ll likely spend the first few weeks of your home recovery sitting and lying down. Since moving around increases your risk of an accident, it's best to stay in a single area if possible. 

Dr. Ganjianpour recommends equipping this room with a bed, a sturdy, comfortable chair, and an ottoman or footstool to elevate your knee. It’s also good to have a nightstand or small table where you can keep necessary supplies, including:

• Eyeglasses
• Your cellphone and charger
• Entertainment, such as books, a tablet, or gaming device
• Bottle of water
• Snacks
• Medication

Lastly, make room to store your mobility device(s). Clearing a space next to the door for your crutches or walker makes getting up and moving around easier. 

Ask a friend or family member to help

After your surgery, the swelling and pain can take several days to resolve, making it difficult to stay active. 

If you live alone, consider asking a friend or family member to stay with you for the first few days. Having an extra pair of hands makes it much easier to change bandages, shower, prepare meals, and get up and down any stairs. 

If you don’t have someone to help, research community resources. Many religious organizations have support teams that assist needy individuals in the community. You can also hire a professional caregiver through a home care agency.

Have plenty of food on hand

After knee replacement surgery, small tasks like using the bathroom or cooking can be taxing. Even so, eating throughout the day is essential. If you don’t get adequate nutrition, healing takes longer, and complications, such as infection, are more likely.

Before your operation, stock your pantry, fridge, and freezer. There’s no right or wrong way to do this. You can prepare and freeze meals in advance or load up on canned soups and TV dinners. 

Since you need sustenance daily, plan for later on too. As supplies run low during recovery, order groceries online or have meals delivered to your home. 

The bottom line

Recovery after knee replacement surgery takes time. If you rush the process, you’re more likely to fall or experience other complications. Preparing your home makes it easier to cope with the challenges of healing. The better you plan now, the easier your recovery.

Contact North Valley Orthopedic Institute today if you’re considering knee replacement surgery. Call the office near you or request an appointment online.