Patient Education: Knee Replacement

Caring for and Keeping Your Knee Healthy

Your knee prosthesis is the result of years of research. But like any other device, your new knee’s lifespan depends on how you care for it. In your follow-up visits after surgery, your doctor will follow your progress and answer any questions that you may have about caring for your new knee. It is important that you follow these directions that your doctor advises you to follow. It is also a good idea to keep the telephone numbers of your surgeon and therapist handy so you will have them if you need them. 

You can also keep your knee healthy by knowing the right moves and avoiding the wrong ones. Some activities could harm your artificial knee and may be permanently restricted. Below is a list of do’s and don’ts:

DO
1) Do position your knee comfortably as you go about daily activities.

2) Do continue to exercise and walk everyday.

3) Do use an ice pack if your knee begins to swell or feel tender. 

4) Do take small steps to turn your body.

DON’T
1) Do not twist your knee. Turn your entire body instead.

2) Do not jump because it could loosen your new knee joint.

3) Do not bend your knee too far.

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