Recovery after hip or knee replacement surgery and returning to normal activities is a gradual process. The recovery time varies from one patient to another and depends on many factors. Following the right recovery process is essential for the best results that include better mobility and lesser pain.
If you live in the UK and are scheduled for joint replacement surgery, consult a Knee and Hip replacement surgeon in the UK for all details. Prof. Nikhil Pradhan is one of the leading, experienced and trusted orthopaedic surgeons in Cheshire. Book an appointment today!
Here are a few expert tips that you can follow to speed up the recovery process after knee and hip replacement surgery without compromising on safety.
Knee
Tips for Faster Recovery after Knee Surgery
Surgeon Recommendations
The first step to fast recovery is to follow the advice and instructions of your surgeon without compromise. Hip and knee replacement surgeons with rich experience know exactly what your body needs. Medications, physical exercises, rest and other recommendations should be followed.
Physical Therapy Sessions
Physical therapy sessions are recommended by the surgeon after taking many things into consideration. It includes your age, fitness, medical history and activity. However, many patients avoid therapy sessions because of different factors such as fear of indulging in activity and pain. Others are often reluctant as it takes additional time. But physical therapy sessions are integral to the recovery process. It helps in reducing pain and swelling, gaining strength and boosting the range of motion.
Healthy Diet
A healthy diet is essential for faster healing and recovery. After your knee or hip replacement surgery, it is better to avoid food with no nutritional elements. In addition, do not take a diet that causes weight gain as it will put unwanted pressure on the joints. Eat healthy food such as vegetables, fruits, lean meats etc. Always consult your doctor to gain more knowledge about the diet.
Sleep and Rest
Sleep has many benefits while recovering from joint replacement surgery. Restoration, healing and strength occur in the body when you sleep. This is the reason why medical experts often advise sufficient sleep and rest after surgery. This may be difficult for some people but it is important to avoid complications and to boost the recovery process.
Exercise
The post-operative plan does include exercises. Regular exercise routine as recommended by your doctor will directly contribute to strengthening the knee and hip joints. Additionally, other benefits include stability and flexibility. Generally, Physiotherapist advise a few minutes of exercise two to three times a day.
It can naturally lead to two important questions. They are addressed below.
What is the best exercise after knee replacement?
You can do quadriceps tightening and knee straightening exercises. Leg raises, ankle pumps and knee bends are helpful too. But it is always best to consult your doctor. This is important because exercise advice will be different for different patients.
What exercises to avoid after knee replacement?
You should avoid running, jogging and high-impact sports.
Hip
Recovery tips for hip replacement surgery are similar to what is already discussed in the last section. However, there are some additional recommendations you must follow to enjoy a normal life after hip replacement.
Hip Replacement Recovery Exercises
The following exercises can help in faster recovery:
Ankle pumps
Knee bends on the bed
Abduction exercise
Quadriceps set
Straight leg raises
Standing knee raises
Please note that you should always follow the advice of your doctor before engaging in exercise.
Lifetime Precautions after Hip Replacement
The lifetime of a hip implant will depend on the implant type used in the surgery. Few of the lifetime precautions after hip replacement are listed below:
- Avoid high-impact activities
- Avoid excessive bending
- Do not sit cross-legged
These precautions will especially help elderly patients.
Hip and Knee Replacement Clinic in Cheshire
If you live in Cheshire and seek urgent medical advice on hip and knee replacement recovery, consult Dr. Nikhil Pradhan, FRCS (Trauma and Orth), MCh Orth Liverpool: DNB (Orth); FCPS (Orth); D’Orth MS (Orth), MBBS. He is one of the leading and trusted hip replacement surgeons in Cheshire. For more details, contact us at any time.
