Preparing for and Recovering After Knee Replacement: A Guide to Surgery and Physiotherapy Support
Blog Health News 23rd January 2025 Enquiries & appointments
Knee Replacement surgery is a common orthopaedic procedure usually recommended by a Consultant Orthopaedic Knee Surgeon when you experience excessive knee pain caused by osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, or an injury.
Knee surgery can transform a patient’s life, significantly improving their quality of life. However, as with any surgical intervention, it can feel daunting and overwhelming. Understanding how to prepare yourself before surgery and knowing what to expect can bring peace of mind and encourage a smoother recovery process.
How to Prepare for Knee Replacement Surgery
- Perform exercises recommended by a physiotherapist to strengthen your body. This preparation can improve your post-surgery outcome. You should also consider booking a session with a Physiotherapist beforehand.
- Arrange for a family member or friend to stay overnight with you during the first couple of days after your discharge from hospital.
- Prepare your home by removing any free-standing hazards such as loose rugs or electrical cables.
- Keep essential items within easy reach, such as mobile phones, glasses, books, or anything else that will keep you occupied during recovery.
- Stock your kitchen cupboards and freezer with nutritious meals. You may also want to stock up on personal items, such as shampoo and toilet paper.
- Stay optimistic and positive about your surgery. If you feel stressed or anxious, try mindfulness exercises, talk to friends and family, or practice breathing exercises to help manage these emotions. Our team is here to support you throughout your care. If you have any concerns, please do not hesitate to contact us.
What Should I Pack in My Hospital Bag for Surgery?
- Comfortable daytime clothing to wear on the ward.
- Glasses, hearing aids or walking aids if you usually require them.
- Sensible footwear, our physiotherapy team will aim to get you moving on the same day as your surgery.
- Prescribed medication, remember to bring these with you upon admission.
How Will the Physiotherapy Team Support My Recovery?
- A physiotherapist should perform a comprehensive physiotherapy assessment before and after surgery.
- Once your pain is well-managed and your vital signs are stable a physiotherapist will recommend exercises and encourage mobility based on your functional level and confidence. Every patient at KIMS Hospital will also have the opportunity to complete a stairs assessment to facilitate a safe discharge.
- At KIMS Hospital, our physiotherapy sessions include guidance on ice therapy, elevation, reducing deep vein thrombosis risk, and the importance of adequate and regular pain relief. We’re determined that you’ll leave our care feeling confident in managing your recovery and pain at home.
What Equipment Might I Need After Knee Replacement Surgery?
The equipment needed can differ for each patient, our physio team will conduct an equipment assessment to fully assess what equipment you need. Your physical therapist could recommend a walking aid such as crutches or sticks. If you have any of those at home already, you should bring them with you for admission.
When Will I Be Discharged from Physiotherapy?
Providing that your blood results, X-ray , and urine output are satisfactory, you will typically be home the day following your surgery. At KIMS Hospital, we adhere to NICE Guidelines to ensure a safe discharge. This includes satisfactory pain control, safe and independent transfers, an adequate range of knee movement, and mobility with appropriate aids, as well as being able to manage stairs safely.
How Soon After a Knee Replacement Should I See an Outpatient Physiotherapist?
Most KIMS Hospital patients will attend a physiotherapy follow-up appointment at KIMS Hospital, Sevenoaks Medical Centre or LycaHealth Orpington approximately two weeks after surgery.
Ahead of your follow-up appointment, you should continue to follow advice and guidance from the Inpatient Physiotherapy Team to make sure you keep the knee moving and prepare the muscles for the next stages of rehabilitation. We will provide you with a Physical Therapy Booklet for you to follow.
Our exceptional inpatient and outpatient physiotherapy teams are here to support you throughout your recovery. They will work closely with your Orthopaedic Consultant to help you return to the activities you love as soon as possible.
Article produced by:
KIMS Hospital