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Working With An Orthopedist

A few years ago, I decided to take up running. I was bad at it at first, but after a few months, I got more comfortable. Unfortunately, right when I got good at running, I developed a bad pain in my left foot. At first, I decided to push past the pain, but it quickly became excruciating. I realized that it might be a good idea to talk with a doctor about my problem, and so I met with an orthopedist. He carefully watched my gait as I ran, and he decided to take some images to check out my bone health. It turned out that I had developed a stress fracture, and my doctor recommended surgery. This blog is all about ways that an orthopedist can help you, so that you can enjoy your hobbies.

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Working With An Orthopedist

What Knee Replacement Surgery Involves And How To Recover

by Jessie Hawkins

If you suffer from chronic knee pain from arthritis, your physician may recommend knee replacement surgery. The idea of going under the knife might sound scary at first, but it may help you get the relief you need. As long as it is performed by a reputable surgeon, it is considered a very safe procedure. If you take the time to educate yourself about the procedure, you may feel less nervous.

Here is some important information about knee replacement surgery.

What Does Knee Replacement Surgery Involve?

Knee replacement is typically performed under general anesthesia. Once you are asleep, your surgeon will clean the surgical site with an antiseptic solution and make an incision in your knee. Then, your surgeon will remove the damaged parts of your knee and insert a knee prosthesis. 

Finally, your surgeon will close the incision.

After the procedure is over, you will stay in the recovery room for a couple of hours and then move to a hospital room for a couple of days.

How Do You Recover from Knee Replacement Surgery?

It is important to understand that it can take several months to recover from knee replacement surgery. During this time, you should take extra good care of yourself and not hesitate to ask your family members and friends for help. Here are a few tips for a successful recovery:

  • Take Pain Medication: It is normal to feel some soreness and discomfort after knee replacement surgery. To ease your discomfort, you should take pain medication as prescribed by your doctor.
  • Make the Necessary Home Modifications: After knee replacement surgery, your balance may be a little off, increasing your risk of falls. That is why you should make several home modifications. For example, you may want to install handrails along the stairs and put a chair in the shower.
  • Move Around: After your surgeon gives you the go-ahead, you should start moving. Doing so will help you strengthen your knee faster. Concentrate on lightweight activities, like slow walking, swimming, and cycling.
  • Eat a Healthy Diet: The foods you consume after your knee replacement surgery can have a big impact on your recovery. Nutritious foods, such as chicken, fish, whole grains, fruits, and vegetables, can give your body the strength it needs to recover.

If you think you are a good candidate for knee replacement surgery, you should schedule an appointment with a reputable orthopedist as soon as possible.  

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