Recovery and rehabilitation
You will see the physiotherapist during your hospital stay and he/she will help you to get moving again, also advising on exercises to strengthen your muscles. You will receive guidance on how to manage on a practical level – for example, how to climb stairs with crutches, get in and out of bed/a chair, how to use the shower, etc. It is very important that you follow this advice to minimise the potential to damage your new knee.
The exercises recommended by your physiotherapist to help strengthen the muscles in the leg are a crucial part of your recovery, so it is essential that you continue to do them when you return home. They will provide advice on the standard ‘dos and don’ts’ following knee surgery – for example, how far you can bend your knee and what range of motion to avoid (such as movements that twist the knee or cause pain such as kneeling, jumping or strenuous exercises).
The occupational therapist will provide information on whether you need any help at home and offer advice on how to maintain independence in your daily life. He/she will assess how physically capable you are and assess your circumstances at home when you are about to leave hospital – they may also be able to provide specialised devices to help around the home.
Important: The information and guidance provided here is general in nature and should not be considered as medical advice in any way. You should always seek detailed advice from a qualified medical practitioner.
