Page 19 - total-knee-packet

This chart above shows you a typical patient’s mood or pain level throughout time after a knee replacement procedure.
Notice that it takes many MONTHS to recover and there will be both good and bad days. This is because your body must
go through chronic inflammation as it is healing. Be patient with yourself! Hopefully as you put forth good effort with
therapy and as your body heals, you can be part of the 85% of patients that are happy in the end.

RETURNING TO ACTIVITIES

Total joint replacement surgery aims to reduce pain and return you to a more active lifestyle. We want you to have an
active lifestyle, and we want this joint replacement to last a long time.

RETURN TO A NORMAL WALKING PATTERN
Most people with hip or knee arthritis have often changed how they walk or avoided putting all their weight on that leg
to minimize their pain. This occurs slowly over time, and you may not even realize that you favor your other leg. You will
need to use walking aids for a while after surgery, such as a walker or cane. The time required to use a walking aid varies
from person to person. A physical therapist, based on your comfort level, can help determine which aid is best for your
situation and when to progress. Getting back to walking normally after surgery will take time. Your walker handle height
should make your elbows bend slightly. You can lift or slide your walker in front of you and then step towards it. When
turning, make small movements and lift your operative leg to not pivot on it when it is planted on the floor.

18