6 Mistakes After Knee Replacement

6 Mistakes After Knee Replacement

In no particular order... the top mistakes we've seen patients and clients make after total knee replacement surgery is...

#1. Resting too much. 
We know you're in a lot of pain from the knee replacement surgery, but prolonged sitting or lying down too much each day results in your knee getting stiffer.  Then, when you do get up, a stiffer knee is always more painful to move and walk on.  Add on that too much sitting or rest is bad for your leg's blood flow and circulation. This can make your new knee feel really heavy or boggy.  If your new knee feels heavy or swollen, then you'll likely move around less.  So, you can see that this would create a vicious cycle of immobility and more knee joint stiffness and more knee pain overall. 

Regarding walking after knee replacement -- it's really difficult "to over do it" -- meaning that most patients will not reach their max steps per day due to pain or apprehension or fear (of falling or of doing too much). 

#2. Sleeping or Lying Down with a Pillow Under Your Knee
If you or a loved one are planning to undergo knee replacement surgery, it's important to know that sleeping with a pillow under your knee might not be the best idea during recovery.

While it may seem like a comfortable position, it can actually hinder your progress in physical therapy and delay your recovery. When you sleep with a pillow under your knee, it promotes a bend in the knee which can make it more difficult to straighten your leg during physical therapy. This can lead to stiffness and decreased range of motion, which are key factors in a successful recovery. Instead, try sleeping with your legs straight and your feet propped up with a couple of pillows. This position promotes proper alignment and can help reduce swelling in the knee.

Additionally, make sure to follow your physical therapist's instructions closely to ensure a smooth and successful recovery. Remember, the road to recovery after knee replacement surgery can be long, but with proper care and attention, you can regain your mobility and get back to doing the things you love.

#3. Using a Cane or Crutch on the Same Side as Your Knee Replacement When Walking
After undergoing knee replacement surgery, walking can be a daunting task. To aid in your recovery and ensure a smooth transition back to normal activity, it's important to use a cane or single crutch when walking, especially in the early stages of recovery.

However, it's crucial to use it on the opposite side of your knee replacement. For example, if you had your left knee replaced, you should use a cane or single crutch in your right hand. This may seem counterintuitive, especially if you're left-hand dominant, but it's important to remember that the goal is to reduce weight-bearing on the surgical knee. Using a cane or single crutch on the opposite side helps to reduce the load on the replaced knee and improve balance.

It can also help prevent falls and promote a smoother gait. It's important to remember that while using a cane or single crutch can be helpful during recovery, it's also important to follow your physical therapist's guidance and progress at your own pace. With time and dedication to your recovery, you'll be back on your feet in no time.

#4. Not Staying On Top of Your Pain Medication Schedule
Staying on a consistent schedule of pain medications after knee replacement will allow you to rest and sleep better. This will help with your daytimes for feeling energetic in order to get up and move around often and engage in home physical therapy visits with us (or, outpatient rehab).

#5. Starting In-Home, Concierge Physical Therapy with Hands On Manual Therapy
Undergoing joint replacement surgery can be a major life-changing event. Whether you've had a knee, hip, or shoulder replacement, proper rehabilitation is crucial for regaining strength, mobility, and functionality. However, starting your physical therapy journey with a concierge physical therapist who is an expert in your replacement rehab can have numerous benefits.

First and foremost, a concierge physical therapist provides one-on-one attention and personalized care, tailored to your specific needs and goals. This can help ensure that you receive the best possible outcomes from your rehabilitation program.

A specialized physical therapist who is knowledgeable in joint replacement rehab can provide hands-on manual therapy techniques that help to reduce pain, inflammation, and stiffness. Additionally, working with a concierge physical therapist can help you progress more quickly and efficiently through your rehab program. You'll receive more individualized attention and guidance, allowing you to focus on your specific rehabilitation needs. This can help reduce your recovery time and allow you to return to your daily activities more quickly.

Moreover, a concierge physical therapist can provide continuity of care by working with you throughout your rehabilitation journey. They can help monitor your progress, adjust your treatment plan as needed, and provide ongoing support and guidance.

In conclusion, starting your hands-on manual physical therapy with a concierge physical therapist who is an expert in your replacement rehab can provide numerous benefits for your recovery. By receiving personalized care, tailored to your unique needs, you can experience a smoother, faster, and more successful rehabilitation journey.

#6. Continue Your Home Exercise Program Between PT Visits
Continuing and completing your daily home exercise program between visits of your hands-on manual physical therapy is essential for a successful knee replacement rehab.

These exercises help to increase range of motion, strength, and flexibility in the affected joint, which can promote faster healing and recovery. By performing your exercises regularly, you can reduce swelling, prevent stiffness, and improve overall joint function. This can help you return to your daily activities and improve your quality of life. Consistency is key, so be sure to follow your prescribed exercise program and communicate with your therapist if you have any questions or concerns.

In conclusion, maintaining a daily home exercise program is an important part of a successful knee replacement rehab, and it can help you achieve the best possible outcome for your recovery.

>> Click Here to learn more about convenient Home PT after your knee replacement, (646)-781-8884.