Here is the list of the 10 common mistakes after a total knee replacement:
1. Adopting a Sedentary Lifestyle
2. Rushing Back to Work
3. Neglecting Pain Management Techniques
4. Overlooking Post-Surgery Recovery Planning
5. Re-engaging in High-Risk Activities Prematurely
6. Ignoring Preoperative Preparation
7. Failing to Adhere Strictly to Medication Regime
8. Ignoring Red Flags
9. Neglecting Follow-up Appointments
10. Failing to Achieve Full Knee Extension
And one additional misstep to avoid:
– Resting with a Pillow Directly Under the Knee
Total knee replacement surgery is a remarkable medical procedure that can offer a second lease of life for individuals struggling with debilitating joint arthritis and pain. Despite this, the journey to recovery can present a variety of unforeseen hurdles. As an experienced physical therapist, I’ve witnessed common missteps patients often make during their recovery. In this guide, I’ve detailed these mistakes, complete with a few personal anecdotes and advice, to help you sidestep them on your path to recovery.
1. Adopting a Sedentary Lifestyle – not doing the work
Over the years, I’ve seen patients who mistakenly think that complete rest is the key to recovery. Like Mr. Johnson, a patient who feared moving too much post-surgery, leading to stiff joints and a prolonged recovery. Striking a balance between rest and regular moderate activity, without straining your new joint, is crucial to a smoother recovery.
2. Rushing Back to Work
Take the example of a dedicated school teacher I once treated. Her rush to return to work just a week post-surgery, though admirable, resulted in slower recovery due to fatigue and overexertion. Remember, your main job post-surgery is to recuperate.
3. Neglecting Pain Management Techniques
Effective pain management is a must to retain mobility post-surgery. I remember a patient who was hesitant about taking pain medications, resulting in unnecessary discomfort and limited movement. A multi-pronged approach to managing pain can make your recovery more bearable.
4. Overlooking Post-Surgery Recovery Planning
I recall a patient who had meticulously planned the surgery but neglected the postoperative recovery plan. This oversight resulted in challenges that could have been avoided with a robust post-surgery plan.
He hadn’t even scheduled his home health PT and had no idea who he was going to go see for outpatient. No bueno!
5. Re-engaging in High-Risk Activities Prematurely
An avid hiker I once treated returned to strenuous hiking with large inclines and declines too quickly post-surgery, resulting in a re-injury. Engaging in high-risk activities, particularly in the initial weeks post-surgery, can jeopardize your new knee joint.
6. Ignoring Preoperative Preparation
I witnessed the recovery journey of Mary, a patient who actively engaged in preoperative physical therapy. This preparation helped her mentally and physically brace herself for what was to come post-surgery.
Lucky for her she already knew the exercises she would be working on after surgery, which gave her a leg up in her recovery!
7. Failing to Adhere Strictly to Medication Regime
Adhering to your medication regime post-surgery is essential. Take, for instance, a patient in his 60s who, due to inconsistent medication intake, experienced severe pain, hindering his rehabilitation.
8. Ignoring Red Flags
After surgery, vigilance is key. One of my patients ignored escalating pain and swelling, leading to a delayed diagnosis of a complication. Recognizing and acting on potential red flags promptly can prevent unnecessary discomfort and further complications.
9. Neglecting Follow-up Appointments
Regular follow-up appointments with your doctor or physical therapist are crucial. Skipping these, as one of my patients did, led to a setback in her recovery as her pain management plan needed adjusting but was not addressed timely.
10. Failing to Achieve Full Knee Extension
Regaining full knee extension is critical after surgery. I worked with a patient who struggled with normal gait due to not achieving full knee extension. Regular targeted physiotherapy exercises can aid in regaining full extension.
Additional Misstep: Resting with a Pillow Directly Under the Knee
A common habit I often see is patients resting with a pillow under the knee, thinking it brings comfort. This position, however, encourages a slight bend in the knee that can hinder full extension and thus recovery.
The Importance of Nutrition and Protein Intake Post-Surgery
An often overlooked yet crucial aspect of recovery is nutrition, especially protein intake. I remember a patient who had a slow recovery due to poor nutrition. Increasing protein intake after surgery aids in tissue repair, immune function, and maintaining muscle mass during periods of reduced mobility.
Conclusion
In conclusion, total knee replacement surgery is a significant event requiring careful planning, discipline, and attention to detail in the preoperative and postoperative stages. By steering clear of these common mistakes, you can pave the way for a successful recovery and a return to a pain-free life.
