An increasing number of people have been choosing knee replacement surgery. The reason is simple to understand. It helps them return to a normal lifestyle, free from knee pain and the associated struggle.
It is quite right to expect this. However, immediately after your knee surgery, you need to focus on your recovery process. It will ensure more successful outcomes and help you resume an active life sooner.
The Knee Replacement Recovery
The success of your surgery is not limited to the operating theatre. World-class ultra-modular OTs at Sohana Hospital ensure a successful surgery. But after this, the results depend on you and your recovery phase. Understanding what to do and what to avoid is essential to ensuring a safe, speedy, and smooth recovery.
According to Dr. Gagandeep Singh Sachdeva, an award-winning knee surgeon, adhering to your doctor’s instructions can significantly improve long-term results while minimising complications.
Most patients start walking with support in a day or two after their robotic knee replacement surgery, and can resume most day-to-day activities in a few days. Yet, it is advisable to avoid specific activities that put excessive pressure on the new knee joint. Examples include running, jogging, jumping, etc.
In this blog, we are going to discuss what to do and what not to do after a knee replacement surgery.
Do’s After Knee Replacement Surgery
1. Physiotherapy – The Foundation of Knee Replacement Recovery
Regular physiotherapy is a must after knee replacement, opines Dr. Gagandeep Singh Sachdeva, Chief Robotic Joint Replacement Surgeon & CEO, Sohana Hospital.
Perform the exercises recommended by your knee surgeon and physiotherapist. It will help make your operated knee strong and flexible. If you are advised to do your exercises 3 times a day, stick to it. Do not miss any physiotherapy sessions.
Most patients require physiotherapy for about 4-6 weeks post-surgery.
2. Supportive Aids – Build Your Confidence
During the initial recovery phase, it is good to use something for support.
At Sohana Hospital, our trained physiotherapists help patients to put their feet on the ground within 24 hours of the surgery. At this time, you use a walker (for some days). Then, you switch to a stick (cane).
These walking aids help you maintain balance and feel confident. Most patients use a walker for about 7-10 days, and gradually start walking independently within 2–4 weeks.
3. Medications – Control Pain
While robotic knee replacement is largely painless, as anaesthesia is given before the surgery, you must take the anti-inflammatory medications and painkillers prescribed by your doctor.
It will help keep swelling and pain in control so that you feel comfortable and get walking. Also, take the medications in the prescribed dosage. Take care not to stop your medicines without your doctor’s consent.
4. Surgical Site – Dry and Clean
Take proper care of the wound. This is necessary to prevent infection and speed up recovery.
Change the dressing as and when instructed by your doctor. Watch out for any redness, discharge, or warmth, as these may indicate infection.
5. Leg Positioning – Manage Swelling
Keep your operated leg at a higher level than the rest of the body. You can use pillows for this purpose.
This small action can help prevent fluid from building up. It also promotes blood circulation. It will be good to stand only for a short time during the initial phase of your recovery.
6. Diet – Eat Healthy
A nutritious diet can help promote tissue repair and boost bone strength.
Include protein-rich foods (e.g., dairy, beans, and lentils), foods containing Calcium & Vitamin D (e.g., spinach, fenugreek, curd, cheese, and fortified foods), along with fruits and vegetables.
Aim for at least 8-10 glasses of water. Avoid excessive salt as it can increase water retention and swelling.
7. Follow-Ups – Regular Monitoring
During your follow-ups at Sohana Hospital, expert orthopaedic surgeons inspect your surgical site and monitor your progress. They also give you care guidelines for the next phase of recovery.
The first follow-up is typically after 10 days of the surgery, and the second follow-up is a month after the surgery.
Don’ts After Knee Replacement Surgery
1. Don’t Stay Inactive for a Long Time
Keep moving intermittently (every 1-2 hours). It will improve blood circulation and enhance your confidence. Don’t take rest for prolonged periods.
Staying still for a long time raises the risk of stiffness and the formation of blood clots.
2. Don’t Touch Water on Your Surgical Site
Until the wound heals completely, do not swim or bathe in tubs. Opt for sponge baths.
Seek your doctor’s permission before engaging in any water-based activities.
3. Avoid Using Stairs Without Support
While you can climb a few steps while holding the railing and with someone’s support, do not overdo it. Wait till your muscles feel strong.
4. Don’t Go for High-Impact Activities
When you are advised to stay active and exercise regularly, it means you should go for walking, cycling, and other low-impact activities. Many patients at Sohana Hospital resume 2-3 km walks in a month after their surgery.
However, running, jogging, jumping, and contact sports should be avoided.
5. Avoid Crossing Legs
During the initial recovery phase, you should take care not to put too much strain on your new knee joint. Do not sit cross-legged without getting a green signal from your doctor.
Sit with feet flat on the ground and knees apart.
6. Avoid Rushing into Driving Too Soon
Reaction times may increase after surgery because of medications. So, it is good not to give in to that urge to drive. Wait for 4-6 weeks after surgery before you resume driving.
7. Don’t Ignore Severe Pain or Swelling
Mild pain and discomfort are normal for some days after surgery. However, sudden, severe swelling or pain may indicate blood clots or infection.
Get in touch with your doctor immediately if you notice any such signs.
What Do Knee Experts Say?
The success of a knee replacement surgery, be it conventional or robotic knee surgery, hugely depends on the post-surgery rehabilitation, remarks Dr. Gagandeep Singh Sachdeva, a world-renowned orthopaedic surgeon known for restoring mobility in thousands of knee patients.
Once you have undergone a successful knee surgery at Sohana Hospital, stick to the doctor-advised post-surgical rehab guidelines to make a faster comeback to your normal life.
As the best knee replacement surgeon, Dr. Gagandeep Singh Sachdeva blends advanced robotic technology with a patient-centred approach for the best results.
Let’s have a glance at knee replacement do’s & don’ts:
| ✅ Do’s after Knee Replacement | ❌ Don’ts after Knee Replacement |
| ✅ Use a walking aid until you feel confident | ❌Do not miss any physiotherapy session |
| ✅ Take your prescribed medications | ❌Do not sit still for a prolonged time, but take frequent rest |
| ✅ Walk & exercise daily (gentle movement) | ❌Do not put excess stress on the knee |
| ✅ Prefer a Western toilet to avoid excessive knee bending. | ❌Do not twist the knee |
| ✅ Keep the surgical site clean & dry | ❌Do not squat or kneel early |
| ✅ Include protein, calcium & vitamin D; drink enough water | ❌Do not overdo things or rush with activities like driving |
| ✅ Place a pillow under your ankle (not under the knee) when lying down | ❌Do not ignore signs of infection |
| ✅ Elevate your leg intermittently | ❌Do not lift heavy objects |
| ✅ Go for regular follow-ups | ❌Do not get into water tubs or swimming pools |
Long-Term Habits to Protect Your Knee Replacement
Smart habits and lifestyle changes can go a long way in enhancing the lifespan of your prosthetic knee joint(s).
- Stay physically active
- Maintain a healthy weight
- Avoid sudden high-impact activities
- Wear supportive footwear
- Perform strengthening exercises regularly
Why Recovery Support at Sohana Hospital Makes a Difference
At Sohana Hospital, knee replacement care continues even after the surgery. Our trusted team of orthopaedic doctors focuses on:
- Personalised rehab plans
- Close monitoring of recovery milestones through follow-ups & WhatsApp
- Instructions on safe movement and exercise
- Round-the-clock physiotherapy support over the phone
This integrated recovery strategy ensures our patients return to daily life sooner and with confidence.
If you or a loved one is dealing with knee issues, visit Sohana Hospital for the best orthopaedic care. A pain-free active life awaits you!