After knee replacement surgery, how should the elderly adjust their lifestyle to promote recovery?

Knee replacement surgery is a common surgery to treat knee joint diseases in the elderly. In the early, middle and late stages after surgery, proper rehabilitation and lifestyle adjustments are essential for recovery. Let us learn about the precautions for each stage after surgery to help the elderly better spend the rehabilitation period.

1. Early postoperative period ( 1-4 weeks )

In the early stages after knee replacement surgery, the elderly need to pay special attention to the adjustment of their lifestyle to promote recovery. In the early stage after surgery, proper rest is essential for recovery. The elderly should ensure adequate sleep and avoid staying in the same posture for a long time to reduce the pressure and pain of the knee joint. At the same time, appropriate activities are also necessary. Under the guidance of a doctor or physical therapist, some simple knee joint activities can help maintain joint flexibility, promote blood circulation, and reduce the risk of blood clots. The diet after surgery should be rich in protein and vitamins to support wound healing and physical recovery. The elderly should increase the intake of high-protein foods such as fish, lean meat, and soy products, and consume enough fruits and vegetables to obtain necessary vitamins and minerals. In addition, weight control is also very important. Excessive weight will increase the burden on the new knee joint and affect the recovery effect. There will be a certain degree of pain after surgery, which is part of the normal recovery process. The elderly should understand how to use painkillers correctly and take them on time to relieve pain. At the same time, ice compresses can be used to reduce swelling and pain. The time and frequency of ice compresses should follow the doctor's advice. The environment at home should be adjusted accordingly to facilitate the activities of the elderly. For example, remove obstacles that could cause falls, such as carpets and electrical cords, and ensure walkways are wide and well-lit. Install handrails where necessary, such as in bathrooms and by stairs, to provide extra support.

2. Mid-term after surgery ( 1-3 months )

In the mid-term after knee replacement surgery, that is, 1 to 3 months after surgery, the focus of rehabilitation for the elderly shifts to more active recovery exercises and the improvement of self-care ability. Under the guidance of doctors and physical therapists, the elderly should start more systematic rehabilitation exercises. These exercises are designed to strengthen leg muscles and improve the stability and range of motion of the knee joint. For example, leg muscle contraction and relaxation exercises, knee flexion and extension in sitting or standing positions, etc. can be performed. In addition, it is also very important to learn the correct walking posture to ensure the correct weight bearing of the knee joint to avoid falls and injuries. As rehabilitation progresses, the elderly should gradually reduce their dependence on others and improve their ability to take care of themselves. The use of assistive tools, such as crutches, sitz bath chairs, and raised seats, can help them complete daily activities more safely and independently. At the same time, family members can help adjust the home environment, such as installing handrails, keeping the floor dry and non-slip, and ensuring that the furniture is reasonably laid out to prevent falls. In the mid-term after surgery, the elderly may feel frustrated because of limited activity or slow rehabilitation progress. Therefore, psychological and social support becomes particularly important. Encouragement, companionship, and positive communication from family and friends are essential to improving the mood and confidence of the elderly in rehabilitation. Participating in social activities, such as senior citizen clubs and rehabilitation groups, can not only provide emotional support, but also exchange rehabilitation experiences and enhance social participation. In the middle stage of rehabilitation, it is necessary to continue to maintain a balanced diet. The elderly should adjust their diet structure according to their own situation and the doctor's advice to ensure adequate intake of nutrients, especially protein and calcium, to support bone and muscle recovery. Avoid high-sugar and high-fat foods to control weight and reduce the burden on the knee joint. In the middle stage of rehabilitation, regular return to the hospital for follow-up examinations is essential. Through X-rays, blood tests, etc., doctors can evaluate the recovery of the knee joint and possible complications. Based on the results of the examination, the doctor may adjust the rehabilitation plan and drug treatment.

3. Late postoperative period ( 3 months later )

In the late stage after knee replacement surgery, that is, 3 months after surgery, the focus of rehabilitation for the elderly is to consolidate the existing recovery results and gradually return to normal life. Even in the late stage after surgery, regular rehabilitation exercises are still indispensable. The elderly should continue to perform moderate muscle strength and range of motion training to maintain the function of the knee joint. In addition, you can try some low-impact exercises, such as swimming or cycling, which put less pressure on the joints and help improve overall physical fitness. In the late stage after surgery, the elderly may have doubts about their rehabilitation progress, especially when facing the challenges of daily activities. Therefore, positive psychological adjustment is very important. The elderly can improve their mood and self-confidence by participating in social activities, interest groups or psychological counseling. The support of family and friends is also indispensable, and their encouragement can help the elderly better adapt to life after surgery. As rehabilitation progresses, the elderly should gradually adjust their lifestyle to adapt to the new knee joint. For example, avoid standing or walking for long periods of time, choose suitable shoes and knee braces, and install anti-slip mats and handrails at home. These adjustments can help reduce the risk of falls and improve the safety and comfort of life. Even if the function of the knee joint has been restored, regular medical examinations are still very important. Older people should follow their doctor's advice and undergo regular knee functional assessments and X-rays to monitor the condition of the knee joint and detect potential problems in a timely manner.

IV. Frequently Asked Questions

How soon after surgery can I start rehabilitation exercises? Usually, doctors will recommend starting some simple rehabilitation exercises the day after surgery, such as ankle activities and slight leg elevation. The specific exercise plan and schedule should be formulated by your doctor or physical therapist based on your individual situation.

How to manage pain after surgery? Postoperative pain management usually includes the use of pain medication prescribed by your doctor, as well as cold compresses to reduce swelling and pain. If the pain persists, you should contact your doctor promptly.

How to prevent blood clots after surgery? Measures to prevent blood clots include early postoperative activities, wearing elastic socks, using anticoagulants, etc. The doctor will give specific suggestions based on your situation.

What activities should be avoided after surgery? In the early stages of rehabilitation, any activities that may cause falls or put excessive pressure on the knee joint, such as running and jumping, should be avoided. As rehabilitation progresses, the amount of activity can be gradually increased, but it should be done under the guidance of a doctor.

Conclusion

In the recovery process of knee replacement surgery, early rest and moderate activities, mid-term active rehabilitation exercises and psychological adjustment, and late consolidation of recovery results and adaptation to a new lifestyle are all important. With proper diet, medication management and regular check-ups, the elderly can return to normal life faster.

Author: Wang Huan, Department of Operating Room, Foshan Gaoming District Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital