Skip to main content

What To Expect When Your Loved One Has Their Knee Replaced

What To Expect When Your Loved One Has Their Knee Replaced

Whether it’s your spouse, a parent, close friend, or someone else in your life, when someone you care about has major surgery, you may need to step into the role of caretaker. That’s far easier to do when you carefully think through what’s going to be necessary in the aftermath of the procedure. 

Knee replacement surgery is a fairly common procedure with a high satisfaction rate. However, that doesn’t mean it’s easy to recover from it, and having help from a caretaker can make all the difference. The experts at Dr. Keppler and Associates want to help you create a recovery plan that works, so we’ve put together this list of tips for people who want to help loved ones following a knee replacement procedure. 

1. Get the house ready

The first few days are the most difficult, and it’s important for your patient to have the things they need near at hand. If you need to, prepare a place for them to stay on the ground floor, near a bathroom if possible. If they can’t be near a bathroom, consider having a bedside toilet or urinal for them. 

You want to make sure that the area is free of tripping hazards such as rugs or electrical cords. You may even consider installing fixtures such as handrails, grab bars in the bathroom, or an easy entry shower. 

2. Make sure there’s food on hand

Even if you plan to cook your loved one’s meals after the surgery, you may want to make sure you have a few things in the freezer for those days when time is just short. 

You should also plan to take over the shopping for a time, as well. It may be helpful to work out a menu with your patient, so that you know you have appealing food for them as they recover. 

3. Figure out the medication

Depending on your patient’s situation, dealing with medication can be complex. You should familiarize yourself with their medications prior to the procedure, and make sure refills are available if necessary. 

Following the surgery, your patient will likely need help in organizing and taking their medication. You may want to keep a list of medications and instructions for taking them to keep track of everything. 

4. Know that some days will be difficult

Recovering from major surgery is not easy. Your patient is likely to be tired and cranky sometimes, or frustrated and sad. Limitations on mobility, pain, and fear are all powerful psychological forces that affect people who are recovering from joint replacement. 

Anticipating these difficulties and providing support is a more important part of being a caregiver than you may realize. 

If you have a loved one who is having knee replacement surgery and you need assistance in planning to take care of them, we’re happy to offer guidance and advice. Schedule a consultation at Dr. Keppler and Associates, and we’ll answer your questions. 

You Might Also Enjoy...

I Have Chronic Back Pain. Do I Have Arthritis?

If you’re of a certain age, and your back starts—and keeps on—hurting, you may wonder if it could be arthritis. Understanding the underlying cause of your back pain is one step in learning to manage it.

3 Reasons Not to Ignore Abnormal Gait

For most people, walking doesn’t require much thought. But, if you have issues with your gait, simply walking to your mailbox can be a problem. In this post, we explain why you shouldn’t ignore issues with walking.

Myths and Facts About Spinal Surgery

For some people, spinal surgery is especially worrisome. Often, we find that’s because people have heard myths related to spinal surgery. We are here to dispel those myths and present some facts that should put you at ease. 

Surprising Ways Arthritis Can Impact Your Health

The common connection among all types of arthritis is that your joints are involved. Regardless of the kind of arthritis you have, you’re likely to be surprised by how it affects other elements of your overall health in addition to your joints.

Signs You’re Not Working Out with Proper Form

Exercise is good for nearly everyone. But, to avoid injury, it’s crucial to make sure you’re using proper form when you exercise. Here, we offer some advice to help you recognize when your form needs improvement.

Why Your Posture Matters

Good posture is important — and not just for appearances. Practicing good posture helps keep your spine and body healthy and can mean less pain over time. Sitting, standing, or moving your posture matters.