Knee replacement surgery is an extremely painful surgery and has a very painful recovery period. There are some steps you can take to optimize your recovery period and get back into full swing after knee replacement surgery.

As soon as your surgery is over, your recovery begins. You, as well as your physical therapist are responsible for your rehabilitation. In the hospital, rehabilitation goals are to maximize your range of motion, reduce stiffness of knee joint, and prepare you for home. Range of motion will become very important after knee replacement surgery. To maximize this, there are some steps you can take. Begin physical therapy one or two days after knee replacement surgery. This includes exercising. Many times a CPM (continuous passive motion device) is used to assist with range of motion. This may be painful, but be sure to strictly follow the doctor's orders for CPM use. To control pain and swelling, be sure to keep your knee iced and take pain medications. Knee replacement recovery after surgery is no picnic.

When you are at home by yourself after knee replacement surgery, there are several things you can do to speed up recovery. Try to avoid sitting longer then one hour at a time. If this becomes impossible, be sure to elevate your leg. Also, be sure to do the exercises prescribed by your doctor and physical therapist. It is easy after knee replacement surgery to quickly eliminate these exercises due to pain. The more you do them, the less you will hurt. One more thing to remember is not to lift more then ten pounds. Knee replacement surgery is a complicated process, so your body needs all of it's strength to recover.

Many people want to be as mobile as possible. This would include simple things like driving and walking after knee replacement surgery. Eventually you will be able to walk normally, but be sure to get cleared by your doctor before putting complete weight on your knee. Driving may also need to be put on hold for a short time after knee replacement surgery. This is not recommended for about six weeks after surgery.

Knee replacement surgery is an extremely complicated surgery. Recovery time can be long and painful, but by following these simple steps you will be assured less pain after knee replacement surgery.