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Recovery at Home
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Fact Sheets from the AAOS |
NOTE: The success of your surgery hinges on how well you follow your surgeon's instructions during the first few weeks after surgery.
Exercise and Activity
- Do not stay in bed once you get home. Rest when you need to, but move about frequently with your cane or crutches, gradually increasing your activity level. Activity will help your body heal and help you feel better.
- Practice walking every day, first around your home and later outside.
- You should be able to resume most light activities within three to six weeks.
- It's important to follow the exercise program developed by your physical therapist diligently. This will help your muscles regain mobility and strength, allowing you to walk normally again.
Self Care
- Eat a balanced diet, take any vitamin or iron supplement your doctor recommends and be sure to drink plenty of fluids. Good nutrition will help your tissues heal and your muscles regain strength.
- Keep your incision clean and dry.
- Your staples will be removed about two weeks after surgery.
- At four to six weeks, your orthopedist will want to take X-rays and discuss which activities you can resume.
Call Your Surgeon If:
- The wound becomes unusually red or hot.
- There is an opening or drainage from the wound.
- Your hip or knee pain is not relieved by rest, ice or elevation.
- You have unusual pain, swelling or redness in your calf.
- You develop a fever over 101 F.
- You develop chest pain or trouble breathing.
This information was adapted from the Arthritis Foundation brochure Planning for Hip & Knee Replacement Surgery.
© Copyright 2008, Arthritis Foundation. All Rights Reserved.
