Two Weeks After Your Surgery: Committing to Your Program

Congratulations on your recent surgery. By now, hopefully most of your knee pain and discomfort has subsided and you're now working with physical therapist(s) to regain your mobility. To help you manage expectations during this time, here are some simple guidelines you can follow to help with your rehabilitation:

Getting the Most Out of Your Physical Therapy

1. Be Careful When You Move

   Your physical therapist has probably already told you some important guidelines for you to follow when moving your body. Because it never hurts to hear them again, here are some you should remember:

   • Do not twist your knee
   • Turn your entire body to avoid stress on your knee
   • Do not impose any jarring forces on your knee
2. Manage Your Pain as Directed

   Be sure to take pain medications as prescribed by your doctor. This is always important, but especially when you begin physical therapy. You will not be getting the most from your physical therapy if the exercises are too painful for you to perform. If your medication is not relieving the pain sufficiently, be sure to tell your doctor.

3. Keep Up with Your Exercises

   Follow the directions of your physical therapist, even when he or she is not there. The more closely you listen to their recommendations, the more successful your rehab will be. Exercise will also increase blood flow to your legs, which will help reduce the chance of blood clots. Other ways you can minimize this risk include using ankle pumps and elevating your knee above your heart when possible, as well as avoiding prolonged sitting and tight clothing.

Other Health Issues You Should Be Aware of

1. Scheduling Dental Work

After any surgery, the risk of infection can exist. When you have dental work, bacteria may be released into your bloodstream and could cause an infection in your knee. For the first two years after a knee replacement, pre-medication with an antibiotic is recommended before undergoing any dental work. To be safe, check with your surgeon before having dental work done after surgery. Additionally, always tell your dentist you have had knee replacement surgery before dental work.

2. Take Care of Your Lungs

It is important that your lungs are working at their best following surgery so you get plenty of oxygen to the tissues of your body that are trying to heal. If your lungs are not exercised properly, it can lead to poor blood oxygen levels and may even cause pneumonia, an infection in your lungs. Your nurse will encourage you to take frequent deep breaths and cough to help strengthen your lungs. You will also be using an incentive spirometer, which is a small device that can help improve breathing.

3. Taking Care of Your Scars¹

Once your wound has completely closed and the scabbing is gone around your knee, you should begin massaging the scar tissue to soften it. Using lotion will help avoid irritating the skin as you massage. With your thumb, make small, quarter-sized circles along the scar, changing the direction of rotation frequently. Also, be sure to wear sunscreen - it can help reduce the appearance of scarring. Your physician or pharmacist may be able to supply you with additional remedies to minimize scarring.

Good luck with your recovery, and remember to follow your doctor's orders and listen to your physical therapist. Check back in after one month has passed to track your progress.

1. Brugioni, pp. 115-116

Last Updated: 04/11/2007