Surgery, no matter what kind, is a significant operation involving several risks. Knee replacement, also known as knee arthroplasty, is no exception. It is an effective treatment for pain caused by osteoarthritis and other conditions affecting the joint. If you experience knee pain when moving or even resting, this type of surgery may be the solution you need.Aside from the complications that can arise from the procedure, the recovery process afterward is a delicate time.
Preparing for this treatment can ease your mind and help make recovering from it a better experience. Let’s talk about some tips to prepare for knee replacement surgery and where you can go for outstanding knee replacement surgery in Kingsport, TN.
Make Your Medical History Clear
Your medical history contains information that is very valuable to healthcare providers. Generally speaking, it includes past surgeries, allergies, past and present medications, and even your family’s medical history.
Doctors and surgeons often want to learn more about this before they perform any treatments.
Before your surgery, ensure that your surgeon knows anything that can cause complications during the operation. An example is any drugs, supplements, or herbs you use with or without a prescription.
Another part of your medical history your surgeon should be aware of are any medical conditions you have. With this in mind, your surgeon may coordinate the doctor treating you for these conditions if surgery can be an option.
You should mention other concerns like colds, flu, or fever.
Set Up Your Home for Recovery
Recovery from a knee replacement is a process that will take some time to finish. During these four months, you should avoid unnecessary stress on your knee so it can heal properly.
While you may recover in the hospital, this will typically take up to three days. That means you will spend the rest of your healing time at home.
To make your recovery trouble-free and safer, preparing your home before the day of the surgery is a good idea. Decide which room you will spend most of your time in while your knee heals. Afterward, ensure that the things you need every day are easily accessible.
Other things you can do to make your recovery process smoother are:
- Use a firm mattress
- Stock up on toilet paper, shampoo, soap, and other personal items
- Eat meals that are easy to prepare (reheatable food, canned goods)
- Add safety bars to your bathroom
- Have a bathroom on the same floor as the room you will be staying in
- Make sure that the floor is clear of any loose wires, cords, and other tripping hazards
Be sure to ask your surgeon for ways to prepare your home for recovery.
Avoid Certain Medicines
Two risks involved with any kind of surgery are bleeding and infections. Therefore, preparing for your knee replacement will mean stopping medication that can increase the chances of those risks.
Medicines that make it harder for blood clots to form include nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like aspirin, ibuprofen, and naproxen.
Blood thinners also prevent blood from clotting. Examples of this include warfarin and clopidogrel.
As for the risk of infections, you should avoid medications that suppress your immune system. This includes methotrexate and Enbrel.
Stop Smoking
If you are a smoker, stopping before the surgery will make your recovery easier. Smoking slows down blood flow in your body, meaning cuts made during the surgery are not as likely to heal.
This slower blood flow can lead to a higher risk of infection during the operation. Also, recovery after the surgery will be affected.
Start Exercising
Lastly, exercising before surgery can strengthen your bones and muscles around the knee. That can lead to an easier recovery and improved function after the operation.
Ask your surgeon or a physical therapist for exercises that you can do in preparation for the surgery.
Knee Replacement in Kingsport, TN
Here at Associated Orthopaedics, our highly trained and experienced orthopedic physicians are ready to help you with any knee-related issues. With the latest technology and techniques at their disposal, you can receive effective and efficient care suited to your needs. Aside from knee replacement surgery, we offer other procedures, like arthroscopy and ligament reconstruction.
Aside from problems with the knee, we also treat and manage issues that affect your joints. To know more about our services, call us today at (423) 245-3161 or schedule a consultation using this convenient appointment form.
We look forward to providing you with the best orthopedic care in East Tennessee!
