Tips After Your Knee Surgery Operation

POST SURGERY

Following your surgery, you may feel pain or discomfort for the first few weeks at home and you should make sure your prescribed pain control medication as required. Taking one every four to six hours as directed is usually required for the first few days to suppress pain.

• Swelling in your knee usually slowly reduces over the first few weeks following surgery. The surgical incision should be dry, but there may be occasional slight spotty bleeding along the wound. A light dressing may cover the incision and the compression stockings should be worn at all times for the first six weeks. Icing your knee for 20 to 30 minutes a few times a day during the first few weeks after surgery will help reduce pain and swelling. If you notice increased swelling, redness, or wound bleeding, you should call Dr Parminder J Singh’s team.
• The presence of new onset calf pain, chest pain or shortness of breath can be a sign of a possible blood clot. Please arrange see your doctor immediately if you notice any of these symptoms.
• Dr Parminder J Singh recommends that you follow your physiotherapy program and generally avoid strenuous activities that may irritate your knee typically for first six weeks following surgery. The goal is to restore your motion and improve your strength. Progressively walking longer distances each day is helpful.
• Try to arrange for someone to visit you at home to help you for up to six weeks. You may need assistance with putting on the elastic stockings, cooking, doing laundry, cleaning, and getting around town. Whenever possible during the first few weeks after surgery, you should periodically elevate your leg to help reduce the swelling. It is normal to have swelling for the first 3 to 6 months after surgery.
• Most patients may shower when they get home. Dr Parminder J Singh recommends you wear a waterproof dressing and avoid bathing for 6 weeks.