Knee surgery can be painful and inconvenient. However, if you’re prepared for the surgery (and the recovery), the task itself can be somewhat less of a hassle.
The Tasks Prior to Surgery
It’s common to undergo a physical examination from your local doctor a few weeks before knee surgery is to take place. This examination is basically a test to see if you are fit, healthy, and able to handle the process of surgery. Different tests that may take place include: blood tests, chest X-rays, a urinalysis, and more. This would be the time to notify your doctor of any medication you are currently consuming. Depending on your condition, your doctor may remove certain pills from your diet, or reschedule the surgery.
It’s very important to notify your doctor if you become ill prior to surgery. An illness could include the flu, a cold, an infection, etc. If you’re not healthy, then the surgery cannot take place. Therefore, try to become healthy and stay healthy (this means avoiding smoking and being overweight).
You may wish to get post-surgery aftercare matters in order before the surgery takes place i.e. where you’ll be staying and getting your room or space ready for your return; who will be driving you home from the hospital, as well as to physical therapy sessions; and lastly, who will be taking care of you during your time of recovery. It’s recommended that you have someone with you 24 hours a day during the first week following surgery.
If your schedule is completely organised prior to your knee replacement surgery, then you may find the healing process to go somewhat smoother. For instance, make sure your home or room is clean and void of mess and clutter. Because you’ll no doubt have difficulty getting around, you don’t need any other obstacles surrounding you.
It’s also recommended to have food already prepared and made easily available. This idea is more for those who won’t have 24 hour assistance readily available, but you might find it more helpful and convenient to have a few meals that are quick and painless to access.
The Tasks Following Surgery
Resting and preserving your energy are two important factors to consider once the surgery is completed. You’ll definitely need your strength to help you recover, and for all of the physical therapy you’ll need to take part in.
Taking the proper amount of medication will also be important. This is why it’s nice to find a family member or friend who is willing to stay with you and help care for you. Not just to protect you from accidentally taking the wrong medication, but to also drive you from place to place, help bathe or clothe you, and ultimately lower the stress levels in your daily routine.
Having reliable assistance and preparing for pre- and post-surgery could actually speed up the healing process. Because you’ll need constant rest and relaxation, you might find it easier to reach a state of comfort and healing if you already know your affairs are completely in order.
This is a guest post by Julia Nichols, a freelance writer and blogger. You can find her health-related articles on various blogs.