Though they once were considered major procedures, knee replacement surgeries have become almost commonplace in modern orthopedics. Orthopedic care specialists in Suffolk County, NY, routinely perform knee replacements to help restore mobility to those with damaged knees, whether that damage is the result of injuries, advancing age, or wear.
Though knee replacement surgeries are generally effective at reducing pain and restoring mobility, the success of your procedure could be heavily impacted by your preparation before entering the operating room. Fortunately, there are some clear preparations that will help you get full mobility, minimal inflammation, and speedy rehabilitation with your knee replacement. Keep reading to learn a few tips that you can use to help you prepare for your upcoming knee surgery.
Hurry Up, but Don’t Rush
When you’re suffering from the kind of pain and immobility that can lead an orthopedic surgeon to suggest a knee replacement procedure, the last thing you want to do is wait. An ailing knee can impact many aspects of your life, and there’s a clear motivation to get the procedure done as soon as possible. However, while you still want to get your knee replacement in a timely fashion to regain your quality of life, there’s no reason to rush. Because of the impact the surgery will have on your life, you need to consider the recovery time when planning the procedure. You may want to consult with others in your household who may be your caretakers to choose the best time for the surgery. Take your time to consider the full impact of the surgery and how your life may temporarily change, then plan accordingly.
Prepare Physically
Even if you have mobility issues caused by your ailing knee, it’s key that you get it in the best shape possible before the surgery. If 
you’re physically fit, your recovery will be much easier, and you’ll be less likely to encounter complications and setbacks. Don’t just focus on the knee either. Instead, think about the parts of your body that you’ll need to use while your knee heals, such as your other leg and your upper body. Those preparations will make for an easier adaptation to your postsurgical recovery.
Ask All the Questions
If your orthopedic surgeon suggests a knee replacement procedure, you can prepare mentally by equipping yourself with knowledge. Your physician is a resource, so make sure to use him or her to the fullest extent. Ask whether the surgery will be an outpatient or inpatient procedure. How long will the surgery take, and how long is the expected recovery period? What type of anesthesia will be used, and what medicines will you be prescribed as you recover? You may also want to know how long you can expect to be off from work. Those tidbits of knowledge are critical to still your mind before the procedure and allow you to make the proper practical preparations. Write everything down so that you can refresh your memory after the surgery.
Orthopedics in Suffolk County, NY, have come a long way, and knee replacement surgeries are routinely successful in relieving pain and immobility in patients. To improve your odds of a successful surgery, use these tips to make preparations that will help you recover afterward. If you have knee pain or have suffered an injury, your first step should be to call Peconic Bay Medical Center at (631) 548-6000 to make an appointment with an orthopedic doctor.