People undergo several surgeries for several purposes. However, the person pre or post-surgery is likely to make a mistake that could have a negative impact. Knee replacement surgery is one such surgery to regain mobility and lower the pain in the knees. The success of this and the aftermath well-being also depends on the care and steps the person made in the healing process.
Five Common Mistakes To Avoid After Knee Replacement
These are the likely mistakes to happen and to avoid after Knee replacement surgery:
1. Neglecting Physical Therapy
The first and foremost significant mistake made after knee replacement surgery is neglecting physical therapy. Just due to the surgery your issues aren’t completely solved and Physical therapy is a vital part of recovery. A therapist will guide you on improving the strength, flexibility, and functioning of the knees properly with exercises and diet. Rejecting this could be a huge mistake.
The Fix:
- Attend all your physical therapy sessions.
- Follow your therapist’s instructions for exercises and movements.
- Do your prescribed exercises at home as recommended.
2. Pushing Too Hard, Too Soon
Understandably, you want to get back on both feet do your routine work, and take part in activities. But pushing too hard right after surgery without rest could increase the chances of knee issues again like swelling, pain, and damage to the surgical area.
The Fix:
- Follow your surgeon’s guidelines for activity and weight-bearing.
- Progress gradually in your activities, under the guidance of your physical therapist.
- Pay attention to your body’s signals – pain is a sign to ease up.
3. Ignoring Pain Medication Instructions
Sometimes your body by time doesn’t recover by itself. Hence the medications are prescribed. Not proper intake or refusing to could be a bad decision as it affects the pain management process. Managing pain is crucial for better health and well-being.
The Fix:
- Take your pain medications as prescribed by your healthcare provider.
- If you want to reduce pain medication, discuss it with your provider first.
- Use pain medication to make physical therapy more manageable.
4. Not Adhering to Weight-Bearing Restrictions
The surgeon or healthcare expert suggests restrictions of weight bearing to an extent to avoid stressing the knees and help them heal. Ignoring these could cause serious damage to the healing process.
The Fix:
- Follow your surgeon’s weight-bearing restrictions diligently.
- Use assistive devices like crutches or a walker as recommended.
5. Skipping Follow-Up Appointments
As important as neglecting physical therapy, refusing to go for follow-up treatments or checkups could have the same effect. In the long run, this could lead to unresolved issues. These appointments help the expert to suggest a better plan update you on the developments of your knee and find solutions.
The Fix:
- Attend all scheduled follow-up appointments with your surgeon.
- Communicate openly about any concerns or questions you have.
Keep in mind that it’s a long journey of recovery when it comes to Knee replacement. The process is slow and takes time, be patient and take your time following the right steps.
👉 Despite you wanting to get back to doing your favorite activities and routines rushing could also give you setbacks.
👉 Respect and follow the steps and guidance advised by your healthcare team physical therapists, and care providers as they support you throughout your recovery.
👉 Make sure you consult them in case of any queries or concerns.
During these times it is also important to keep a strong and positive mindset and there’s a saying that most good things come within. Each step or improvement is something you must be happy about.
Read More:- Growth-Related Knee Pain In Children – Causes & Symptoms
Bottom Line
Before or after any surgery especially when it comes to knee and its Knee replacement surgery, several mistakes are made by the person causing long-term side effects and other issues. These are common mistakes and must be avoided for better physical health and well-being. By the mistakes mentioned and fixes to face the problem this article will help you have a better understanding and put your knees to safety.
