Knee Replacement Recovery in Sonora
Helping you heal after knee replacement surgery
The road to recovery after undergoing knee replacement surgery can be long. The team at Adventist Health Sonora is here to help you navigate this journey and make a full recovery after surgery.
Knee replacement surgery usually requires an in-hospital stay of two to three days. As soon as possible after the procedure, you will want to start using your new joint.
We will provide you with an experienced physical therapist who will plan a customized exercise program to meet your unique needs. This plan will be carried out during your stay in the hospital and at home once you have been discharged. You will either be discharged to go home or to a rehabilitation center.
Continuing recovery at home
Once you have arrived home after surgery, make sure you keep the surgical area clean and dry. We will provide you with instructions on how to bathe and shower in the days and weeks following surgery. Your stitches or surgical staples will be removed during a follow-up visit.
To help reduce swelling, you may be asked to elevate your leg or apply ice to the knee. Take a pain reliever for soreness as recommended by your physician. Aspirin or certain other pain medications may increase the chance of bleeding, so be sure to take only recommended medications.
You should immediately tell your doctor if you experience:
- Fever
- Swelling, bleeding, or drainage from the surgery site
- Severe pain
Full recovery from your knee replacement surgery may take several months. It is important that you carefully follow all instructions provided by your physician and/or surgeon. You should not drive or perform other specified activities until your doctor says it is okay to do so.
You must also avoid falls after your surgery. Your therapist may recommend an assistive device (cane or walker) to help you walk until your strength and balance improve.
Making certain modifications to your home can help you stay safe while you recover. You may want to consider installing safety handrails along stairs, adding a shower bench or chair, or purchasing a sock aid and dressing stick. These and other modifications can be discussed with your physician.