Common Mistakes to Avoid After Knee Replacement

Knee replacement surgery is a major medical procedure that can significantly improve mobility, reduce pain, and enhance quality of life. With advancements in orthopedic care, particularly at hospitals like Shalby Hospital, which is renowned for its expertise in Knee Joint Replacement, recovery outcomes have improved drastically. However, post-surgery care plays a critical role in the long-term success of the procedure.

Unfortunately, many patients unknowingly make mistakes during the recovery period that can delay healing, cause complications, or even impact the effectiveness of the knee implant. This article outlines the common mistakes to avoid after knee replacement surgery, helping you recover safely and return to an active life.

1. Skipping Physiotherapy Sessions

One of the most common and critical mistakes patients make is skipping or irregularly attending physiotherapy sessions. Post-operative physiotherapy is essential after knee joint replacement to rebuild muscle strength, improve flexibility, and restore range of motion. At Shalby Hospital, physiotherapy is customized for each patient by our rehabilitation experts to ensure a structured and safe recovery process. Missing sessions can lead to joint stiffness, weakness, or improper gait patterns.

Tip: Follow your physical therapy schedule diligently and communicate with your therapist about any discomfort during exercises.

2. Overexerting Yourself Too Soon

While it’s important to stay active after surgery, overexertion is equally harmful. Patients sometimes attempt to walk longer distances or resume household chores prematurely, believing it will speed up recovery. In reality, it can strain the healing tissues, cause inflammation, or result in falls.

Mistake to avoid: Don’t push your body beyond what is advised by your orthopedic surgeon or physiotherapist. Knee replacement recovery takes time, and gradual progress is key.

3. Ignoring Pain and Swelling

Some patients believe that tolerating pain after surgery is a sign of strength or progress. However, persistent pain and swelling may indicate complications like infection, implant misalignment, or deep vein thrombosis (DVT).

Ignoring these symptoms or self-medicating without consulting a doctor can lead to serious issues. At Shalby Hospital, patients are monitored closely for any post-operative complication, and early intervention is prioritized.

What to do: Keep your doctor informed about unusual or increasing pain, redness, or swelling around the knee.

4. Not Following Medication Schedule

Prescribed medications, including pain relievers, anti-inflammatory drugs, and antibiotics, are vital to your recovery. Missing doses or stopping medicines without a doctor’s approval can delay healing or cause adverse effects. Patients at Shalby’s Knee Replacement Center receive clear guidance on their medication schedule to prevent infections and manage pain efficiently.

Tip: Set medication reminders on your phone or maintain a daily checklist to ensure compliance.

5. Avoiding the Use of Assistive Devices

Using walkers, canes, or crutches during early recovery is often recommended to avoid putting too much stress on the new knee joint. However, many patients either feel embarrassed or overconfident and stop using these aids too soon. This can result in falls or improper load distribution on the knee. Remember, assistive devices are temporary tools for your long-term safety.

Advice: Use assistive devices until your surgeon or physiotherapist confirms you no longer need them.

6. Sitting or Lying in the Same Position for Long Periods

Maintaining the same posture for extended periods can hinder blood circulation and increase the risk of blood clots. After knee joint replacement, movement is essential—even if it’s just minor changes in position or walking for a few minutes every hour. Shalby Hospital educates patients on post-operative mobility techniques to promote safe and active recovery.

Tip: Move regularly, even during rest periods, and perform ankle-pumping exercises if you are unable to walk.

7. Not Elevating the Leg When Needed

Post-surgery swelling is normal and can be controlled by properly elevating the leg. Some patients fail to elevate the leg correctly or forget to do it altogether, prolonging recovery and discomfort. Correct elevation means raising the leg above heart level using pillows while lying down—not just resting it on a low stool.

Do: Practice proper leg elevation to reduce swelling and promote circulation, especially during the initial weeks.

8. Wearing the Wrong Footwear

Wearing slippers, heels, or non-supportive shoes can throw off your balance and cause slips or strain. After a total knee replacement, patients should choose footwear that offers grip, arch support, and comfort. Shalby’s orthopedic team often advises specific shoe types suitable for your post-surgery gait pattern.

Tip: Invest in orthopedic or shock-absorbent shoes to maintain joint alignment and reduce pressure.

9. Not Monitoring Weight Gain

Weight management is crucial after knee surgery. Gaining excess weight can put additional pressure on your new joint, increasing wear and tear and decreasing implant longevity. Shalby Hospital offers nutritional counseling to knee replacement patients to support healthy lifestyle changes.

Action Point: Follow a balanced diet, stay hydrated, and consult with a dietitian if needed.

10. Failing to Attend Follow-Up Appointments

Skipping follow-up visits with your orthopedic surgeon is one of the most dangerous mistakes after knee replacement. These check-ups allow your doctor to assess healing progress, spot early signs of complications, and adjust your treatment plan if necessary. At Shalby Hospital, follow-up care is a part of the comprehensive joint replacement program that ensures long-term joint health and patient satisfaction.

Tip: Never miss a follow-up appointment—even if you feel fine.

Conclusion: Recover Right with the Experts at Shalby Hospital

Recovery after a knee replacement surgery is a journey that requires the right guidance, commitment, and medical support. Avoiding these common mistakes can significantly improve the success rate of your surgery and ensure that you return to your normal activities with confidence. Shalby Hospital is recognized as one of the best hospitals for knee joint replacement in India. With a team of highly experienced orthopedic surgeons, state-of-the-art facilities, and personalized post-operative care, Shalby offers a holistic approach to joint recovery.

Our structured rehabilitation programs, infection control protocols, and follow-up systems make sure every patient receives world-class care from surgery to complete recovery. If you or your loved one is planning a knee replacement surgery, trust the experts at Shalby Hospital for the best outcomes.  Visit our Knee Joint Replacement page to learn more or book a consultation today.