| When you make the decision to have total knee | | | | medication when you really need it. At the same |
| replacement surgery, you want to be sure you have | | | | time, be sure to let your doctor know if your pain is |
| a complete understanding of what to expect before, | | | | not manageable. Never increase your dosage without |
| during, and after the procedure. This type of surgery, | | | | your doctor's permission. |
| while a common one, has many associated risks and | | | | During the first 6 weeks following your total knee |
| complications. These problems can occur both during | | | | replacement, you will need to have frequent resting |
| the procedure and in the recovery period. To avoid | | | | periods to allow your body to heal. However, that |
| having reoccurring issues with your new joint, what | | | | doesn't mean that you should remain completely |
| you do in the first 6 weeks after total knee | | | | sedentary. In fact, if you spend your days in bed or |
| replacement is critical. | | | | on the couch, you put yourself at risk for developing |
| Knee surgery is not a minor procedure. Your knee will | | | | a blood clot. You can help prevent the development |
| be swollen, and you will be in pain afterwards. It is | | | | of blood clots by using compression stockings as |
| important to be able to appropriately manage that | | | | directed in your discharge instructions. When you are |
| pain. Your doctor will work with you in the hospital to | | | | resting, be sure your legs are positioned higher than |
| find the right dosage of pain medications that will | | | | your heart. This will also help with the post-operative |
| allow you to feel comfortable and stay relatively | | | | swelling. |
| alert. Don't try to tough it out and not take pain | | | | |