5 Essential Do’s and Don’ts After Knee Replacement Surgery

 Knee replacement surgery, also referred to as knee arthroplasty, is a transformative procedure aimed at alleviating pain and restoring mobility for individuals suffering from severe knee arthritis or injury. However, for optimal recovery and long-term success, it is crucial to adhere to post-operative care. Below are key guidelines to help ensure a smooth recovery process after knee replacement surgery.



Do’s After Knee Replacement Surgery

1. Do Follow Your Rehabilitation Plan

Importance: Physiotherapy plays a vital role in the recovery process after knee replacement surgery. Following the prescribed rehabilitation plan helps restore strength, flexibility, and range of motion in the knee.

What to Do:

  • Attend Therapy Sessions: It is essential to attend all scheduled physiotherapy sessions as they help improve the functionality of the knee.

  • Perform Home Exercises: Continue with the home exercise program prescribed by your physiotherapist. These exercises are designed to enhance muscle strength and restore joint movement.

  • Progress Gradually: Avoid rushing the exercises; gradually increase the intensity as directed by your therapist to prevent injury.

2. Do Control Pain and Swelling

Importance: Managing pain and controlling swelling will aid in a faster recovery, making it easier to engage in physical therapy.

What to Do:

  • Take Medications as Prescribed: Follow the doctor’s prescribed medication plan, including painkillers and anti-inflammatory drugs, to manage pain and reduce swelling.

  • Apply Ice: Apply ice packs to the knee for 15-20 minutes multiple times daily to minimize swelling and discomfort.

  • Elevate Your Leg: Keep your leg elevated above heart level to further reduce swelling and promote circulation.

3. Do Use Assistive Devices

Importance: Using crutches, walkers, or canes can help reduce the risk of falling or causing re-injury as you recover from knee replacement surgery.

What to Do:

  • Use Devices Correctly: Ensure you use assistive devices correctly by following the instructions provided by your healthcare provider.

  • Transition Gradually: As your strength and mobility improve, gradually reduce the use of these devices, but only under the guidance of your physiotherapist or doctor.

4. Do Follow a Healthy Diet

Importance: A balanced diet speeds up recovery and helps maintain overall health during the post-operative phase.

What to Do:

  • Eat a Balanced Diet: Focus on lean proteins, fruits, vegetables, and whole grains to provide nutrients necessary for tissue repair.

  • Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated, which supports healing.

  • Monitor Weight: Maintaining a healthy weight will reduce pressure on your knee and help prevent any strain on the newly replaced joint.

5. Follow Up with Your Healthcare Provider

Importance: Regular follow-up appointments are crucial to monitor your progress, identify any complications early, and adjust the rehabilitation plan accordingly.

What to Do:

  • Keep All Appointments: Be sure to attend all follow-up appointments with your surgeon and physiotherapist to ensure your recovery is on track.

  • Report Unusual Symptoms: Immediately inform your healthcare provider if you notice any signs of infection or unusual pain, such as swelling, redness, or fever.

Don’ts After Knee Replacement Surgery

1. Don’t Overexert Yourself

Importance: Overexertion can lead to complications, delayed healing, or injury. Rest is an essential part of the recovery process.

What Not to Do:

  • Avoid High-Impact Activities: Do not engage in high-impact activities like running or jumping that can put unnecessary stress on your new knee before getting the clearance from your doctor.

  • Don’t Skip Rest: Balance physical activity with adequate rest. Pushing through pain or fatigue can hinder your healing process.

2. Don’t Neglect Wound Care

Importance: Proper wound care is crucial to avoid infection and ensure the surgical site heals correctly.

What Not to Do:

  • Keep the Wound Dry: Keep the surgical site dry to prevent infection. Avoid submerging the wound in water (e.g., while bathing or swimming) until your doctor confirms it is safe.

  • Don’t Ignore Signs of Infection: Be vigilant for signs of infection, such as increased redness, swelling, or discharge, and notify your healthcare provider immediately if you notice any of these symptoms.

3. Don’t Disregard Physical Therapy Guidelines

Importance: Ignoring the recommended exercises or performing them incorrectly can result in poor recovery outcomes, such as limited mobility or increased pain.

What Not to Do:

  • Avoid Unapproved Exercises: Do not perform any exercises that haven’t been approved by your physiotherapist, as this can impede healing and possibly cause injury.

  • Don’t Rush Recovery: Allow time for gradual progress. Pushing yourself too soon can lead to setbacks or further complications.

4. Don’t Disregard Pain Signals

Importance: Pain is often an indicator that something is wrong or that you are overexerting yourself. Ignoring pain can lead to complications or setbacks.

What Not to Do:

  • Avoid Self-Medication: Do not take over-the-counter painkillers or medications without consulting your doctor. These may interfere with your prescribed pain management regimen.

  • Don’t Push Through Severe Pain: If you experience sharp, increasing pain, stop the activity immediately and consult your healthcare provider for further guidance.

5. Don’t Skip Post-Surgery Guidelines

Importance: Following your surgeon’s specific post-operative care instructions is vital to avoid complications and ensure the best recovery possible.

What Not to Do:

  • Don’t Ignore Instructions: Follow all guidelines related to weight-bearing, activities, and medications as prescribed by your surgeon and physiotherapist.

  • Don’t Miss Follow-Up Appointments: Regular checkups are important for tracking your recovery and addressing any complications early on.

Top 5 Mistakes to Avoid After Knee Replacement Surgery

  1. Skipping Physical Therapy: Not performing the prescribed exercises hinders mobility and can delay your recovery.

  2. Overexerting Yourself: Engaging in high-impact activities or doing too much too soon can damage your new knee and slow down healing.

  3. Ignoring Pain Signals: Not addressing or managing pain can lead to complications or permanent damage.

  4. Failing to Follow Post-Op Instructions: Disregarding your surgeon’s instructions can delay recovery and increase the risk of complications.

  5. Inadequate Support: Not using assistive devices or not following weight-bearing recommendations can result in imbalance, increased risk of falls, and slower recovery.


If you're considering knee replacement surgery, Dr. Naveen Malu, an experienced joint replacement surgeon, is here to help with robotic knee replacement procedures. For a safer and more effective recovery journey, reach out to Dr. Naveen Malu, an expert in orthopedic care, based at Nova Life Hospital in Saraswathi Nagar, Nizamabad.

For appointments or more information, 

📍 Visit us at Nova Life Hospital, Saraswathi Nagar, Nizamabad, 503001
📞 Call us at 9640033311.
🌐 Book online: www.drnaveenrobotics.com

By adhering to these dos and don'ts, you'll be on the road to a speedy and effective recovery after knee replacement surgery

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