February 7, 2024

Pre-Surgery Preparation: How to Get Ready for Your Knee Replacement

Undergoing knee replacement surgery is a significant decision that comes with the hope of living a more active and less painful life. However, the success of the surgery isn’t just about what happens in the operating room; it’s also about how well you prepare beforehand. Proper preparation can not only help ensure a smoother surgery but also a more effective recovery. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to get ready for your knee replacement surgery.

Understanding the Procedure

Before you dive into the physical preparations, take some time to understand what knee replacement surgery entails. Speak with your orthopedic surgeon about the specifics of the procedure, the type of implant being used, and what you can expect during and after the surgery. Understanding the process can help alleviate any anxiety and also make you an active participant in your recovery journey.

Pre-Surgical Medical Evaluations

Your medical team will schedule several pre-surgical evaluations. These might include blood tests, X-rays, MRIs, and cardiovascular evaluations to ensure you’re healthy enough for surgery. If you have underlying medical conditions, such as diabetes or high blood pressure, it’s crucial to have these under control before the surgery.

Physical Preparations

• Exercise: Strengthening the muscles around your knee can aid in your recovery. Your doctor or a physical therapist might recommend exercises that focus on the muscles in your thighs and lower legs.
• Weight Management: If you’re overweight, losing even a small amount of weight can reduce the stress on your new knee and help with recovery.
• Quit Smoking: Smoking can slow down wound healing and recovery. If you smoke, seek help to quit before your surgery.

Home Preparation

• Safety Modifications: Make your home recovery-friendly. This might include installing safety bars in the bathroom, securing rugs to prevent slips, and ensuring that daily essentials are easily accessible without having to climb stairs.
• Recovery Area: Set up a comfortable recovery area with easy access to everything you might need, such as medications, water, the telephone, and entertainment options like books or a television.

Diet and Medications

• Nutrition: A well-balanced diet can aid in your recovery. Some surgeons recommend increasing your intake of certain nutrients, such as protein, to help with wound healing.
• Medications: Review all your current medications with your doctor. Some medications might need to be paused or adjusted before the surgery.

Arrange for Help

Post-surgery, you will need help with everyday tasks such as cooking, cleaning, and transportation to doctor’s appointments. Arrange for a family member, friend, or caregiver to assist you during the initial weeks of recovery.

Mental Preparation

The prospect of surgery can be daunting. Engage in activities that relax and soothe you, such as meditation, reading, or listening to music. Being mentally prepared can positively impact your recovery process.

Pre-Surgical Rehabilitation (Prehab)

Dr. Mrinal Sharma recommend prehabilitation (prehab) – a set of physical exercises before the surgery aimed at speeding up recovery. Prehab focuses on improving your physical strength and flexibility, which can lead to a smoother post-surgery rehabilitation process.

Conclusion

Preparation is key to navigating knee replacement surgery successfully. By taking proactive steps to prepare both your body and your environment, you can set the stage for a smoother surgery and a faster, more effective recovery. Remember, Dr. Mrinal Sharma is there to guide and support you every step of the way, so don’t hesitate to reach out to them with any concerns or questions you might have. Here’s to a successful surgery and a swift return to the activities you love!