Orthopaedics
Knee Replacement & Hip Replacement information
Knee Replacement
Frequently Asked Questions
Liaise with Insurance provider
Check with Consultant post op
Within 2 weeks of your operation
Dependent on what your post op note states- but usually 2-6 weeks
When you are medically fit- this can be the same day or up to 1 or 2 days after. The aim is to get you home ASAP as you recover better in your own home.
As soon as you feel able to
This can be within a few hours post operatively- when you are able to feel and move your legs. The therapy or nursing team will help you out of bed for the 1st time.
Yes
Taking regular rests on your bed to elevate your legs can help with swelling management. A mix of mobilising and resting throughout the day is also helpful in the initial few weeks. Use of ice can also help with this.
Ice 20- 30 minutes on- 2 hours off. Ensure that you can fully feel the area that you are applying the ice to and that there is a protective layer (tea towel/ pillowcase) to act as a barrier to protect your skin.
This depends on the nature of your job. We advise you to speak to Managers, Occupational Health, (if available), to guide your return. Or when you feel able to.
Liaise with your Physio regarding this- but generally as you feel comfortable to.
When you feel confident and able to.
Follow post op instructions.
Nursing staff will advise on this on your discharge from the ward.
Hip Replacement
Frequently Asked Questions
Liaise with Insurance provider
Check with Consultant post op
Within 2 weeks of your operation
Dependent on what your post op note states- but usually 2-6 weeks
When you are medically fit- this can be the same day or up to 1 or 2 days after. The aim is to get you home ASAP as you recover better in your own home.
As soon as you feel able to
This can be within a few hours post operatively- when you are able to feel and move your legs. The therapy or nursing team will help you out of bed for the 1st time.
Yes
Taking regular rests on your bed to elevate your legs can help with swelling management. A mix of mobilising and resting throughout the day is also helpful in the initial few weeks. Use of ice can also help with this.
Ice 20- 30 minutes on- 2 hours off. Ensure that you can fully feel the area that you are applying the ice to and that there is a protective layer (tea towel/ pillowcase) to act as a barrier to protect your skin.
This depends on the nature of your job. We advise you to speak to Managers, Occupational Health, (if available), to guide your return. Or when you feel able to.
Liaise with your Physio regarding this- but generally as you feel comfortable to.
When you feel confident and able to.
Follow post op instructions.
Nursing staff will advise on this on your discharge from the ward.
