Have you undergone knee replacement surgery and are wondering how to maintain long-term mobility? A knee replacement can greatly enhance your quality of life, allowing you to regain mobility and reduce pain. However, to ensure the longevity of your knee implant, it’s essential to follow the right lifestyle, exercise routine, and medical guidance. In this guide, we’ll cover expert tips on maintaining long-term mobility and answer all your concerns regarding living with a knee replacement.
How Can You Protect Your New Knee Joint?
Maintaining your knee replacement involves regular movement, proper care, and avoiding excessive strain. Follow these steps to keep your new knee functioning well for years:
- Stay active but avoid high-impact activities.
- Maintain a healthy weight to reduce stress on the knee.
- Follow a structured exercise plan to strengthen muscles.
- Attend regular follow-ups with your surgeon.
- Prevent infections by keeping wounds clean and monitoring for any unusual symptoms.
What Are the Best Exercises for Strengthening the Knee?
After knee replacement surgery, the right exercises help build strength, flexibility, and endurance. Recommended exercises include:
- Straight leg raises to strengthen the quadriceps.
- Heel and toe raises to improve balance and stability.
- Stationary cycling to enhance knee mobility.
- Seated knee extensions to increase range of motion.
- Swimming and water therapy for low-impact strengthening.
How Soon Can You Resume Walking After Surgery?
Most patients start walking with support within 24 hours post-surgery. Initially, you’ll use a walker or crutches, but by the Firts week, you should be able to walk independently. By fourth week, many patients can comfortably walk longer distances.
Is It Normal to Experience Stiffness After Knee Replacement?
Yes, stiffness is common in the first few weeks after surgery. To manage this:
- Perform daily stretching exercises recommended by your physiotherapist.
- Use ice therapy to reduce swelling and stiffness.
- Avoid prolonged sitting—regular movement helps prevent stiffness.
- Ensure proper posture while sitting and sleeping to maintain joint alignment.
When Can You Climb Stairs Comfortably?
Initially, stair climbing may be challenging, but with 1-2 weeks of physiotherapy, you will gain confidence. Tips for climbing stairs post-surgery:
- Always use a handrail for support.
- Lead with your strong leg going up and your operated leg going down.
- Strengthen hip and thigh muscles to make stair climbing easier.
How Can You Prevent Falls After Knee Replacement?
Preventing falls is crucial to protect your new knee. Follow these precautions:
- Use supportive footwear with non-slip soles.
- Keep your home clutter-free to avoid tripping hazards.
- Install grab bars in the bathroom and near stairs.
- Improve balance with exercises like tai chi and yoga.
Can You Kneel After a Knee Replacement?
Kneeling may feel uncomfortable at first, but with time, many patients regain the ability to kneel. To improve kneeling ability:
- Start with gentle kneeling on a soft surface.
- Use a cushion or knee pad for added comfort.
- Strengthen thigh and hip muscles to support the knee.
- Check with your surgeon before attempting kneeling activities
How Long Should You Continue Physiotherapy?
Physiotherapy is essential for at least 4-6 weeks after surgery. However, maintaining a lifelong exercise routine will ensure better mobility and prevent complications.
Can You Return to Work After Knee Replacement?
- Office workers may resume work within 2 weeks.
- Jobs requiring physical labor may need 1-2 months of recovery.
- Discuss workplace modifications with your doctor if your job involves prolonged standing or heavy lifting.
What Sports and Activities Are Safe After Knee Replacement?
While high-impact activities like running and jumping should be avoided, these low-impact activities are safe:
- Walking
- Swimming
- Cycling
- Yoga and Pilates
- Golf and light hiking
How Can You Maintain a Healthy Weight for Knee Health?
Excess weight puts stress on your knee implant, shortening its lifespan. Maintain a balanced diet rich in:
- Lean proteins (chicken, fish, eggs, legumes)
- Calcium and vitamin D (dairy, leafy greens)
- Omega-3 fatty acids (nuts, seeds, fatty fish)
- Fiber-rich foods to maintain a healthy metabolism
What Are the Warning Signs That Need Medical Attention?
Contact your doctor immediately if you experience:
- Severe pain or swelling that doesn’t improve.
- Redness or warmth around the knee (sign of infection).
- Difficulty bearing weight on the operated knee.
- Clicking or instability in the knee joint.
How Can You Ensure the Longevity of Your Knee Implant?
A knee implant can last 20-30 years with proper care. Follow these guidelines:
- Avoid high-impact activities.
- Maintain a healthy lifestyle.
- Keep up with routine check-ups.
Where Can I Find the Best Knee Replacement Near Me?
If you are searching for a knee replacement near me, finding a trusted and experienced orthopedic surgeon is crucial for successful treatment. Dr. Supreet Bajwa, a Fellowship-Trained Hip & Knee Orthopaedic Surgeon, offers advanced Minimally Invasive and Robotic-Assisted Knee Replacement Surgery for faster recovery and long-term relief. With over 10+ years of experience and 1300+ successful joint replacements, Dr. Bajwa provides personalized care to help patients regain mobility and live pain-free. You can consult him at Wockhardt Hospital (Mumbai Central & Mira Road), or visit the Bajwa Orthopedic Specialist Services Clinic, a dedicated center for expert orthopedic care.
Living with a knee replacement requires proper care, regular exercise, and medical follow-ups to ensure long-term mobility. By following the right lifestyle and seeking expert medical guidance, you can enjoy an active and pain-free life. For expert orthopedic care, consult Dr. Supreet Bajwa, a highly experienced and top hip & knee replacement surgeon in Mumbai.
Book an Appointment Now: +91 9820727046
Bajwa Orthopedic Specialist Services Clinic – The best orthopedic care in Mumbai.