Re>Recovery & Rehab

Simple steps to help you get better after surgery. Learn what to do, when to move, and when to ask for help.

First 1–2 Days
Week 1–2
Week 3–6
Week 6–12
Months 3–6
Exercises
When to Seek Help

First 1–2 Days

First 1–2 Daysock-list">
  • 🚶‍♀️ Move early: sit out of bed, stand, short safe walks.
  • 🌬️ Breathing & leg pumps: every hour while awake.
  • 🥣 Eat & drink: small, often; water unless told otherwise.
  • 🕒 Pain plan: take medicine on time.
  • 🧊 Ice & elevate: 15–20 minutes to reduce swelling.

    • Week 1–2

      Week 1–2lk often: several short walks daily.
    • 🦵 Range-of-motion: gentle bend/straighten as guided.
    • 🩹 Wound check: keep dressing clean and dry.
    • 🗓️ First physio: set goals and check your walking aid.

    Week 3–6

    • 🏋️ St>Week 3–6g> add light resistance and balance work.
    • 🏡 Daily life: longer walks; simple house tasks.
    • 🚗 Driving: only when safe to brake and off strong pain meds.

    Week 6–12

    • 🛒 Function:Week 6–12e inclines, light shopping.
    • 💪 Exercise: progress strength, balance, endurance.
    • 💼 Work: depends on job and surgery—discuss at review.

    Months 3–6

    • 🙂 Confidence: walking an>Months 3–6re natural.
    • 🚴 Sport: low-impact (walk, cycle, pool, gentle gym).
    • ⏱️ Keep going: gains continue up to 12 months.
    TimeMain GoalsKey Actions
    Day 0–2Start moving, control painSit/stand/walk; breathing & leg pumps; ice/elevate
    Week 1–2Protect wound, gentle motionShort walks, ROM drills, first physio
    Week 3–6Strength & balanceLight resistance, longer walks, daily tasks
    Week 6–12Most activitiesStairs, light gym, increase endurance
    3–6 monthsConfidence & fitnessLow-impact sport, maintain program

    Exercises

    Exercises

    wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex">🦵 Knee

    🦴 Hip

    🏋️‍♀️ Shoulder

    Wound, Pain & Swelling

    • 💊 Pain medicine: take as directed, then step down.
      • Wound, Pain & Swellingminutes; protect skin with a wrap.
    • 🦵 Elevation: keep the limb up to reduce swelling.
    • 🩹 Dressing: keep clean and dry; don’t remove unless told.
    • 🚿 Showering: follow your team’s advice.
    • 🧦 Clots: stockings/meds if prescribed; keep ankles moving.

    When to Seek Help Fast

    • ❗ Chest pain or sudden trouble breathing
    • ❗ Very swollen or painful calf (one side)
      • >When to Seek Help Fasthills
    • ❗ Wound redness spreading, pus, or bad smell
    • ❗ Heavy bleeding soaking the dressing
    • ❗ Numbness, colour change, or the limb feels cold

    Recovery FAQs

    When can I drive again?
    Often 2–6 weeks when you c>Recovery FAQs are off strong pain medicines. Your doctor will guide you.
    How much walking should I do?
    Short walks, often, are best at first. Add time and distance slowly each week if pain and swelling allow.
    Do I sleep with a brace or sling?
    Only if your surgeon/physio tells you to. Follow your written plan.
    Can I shower with the dressing?
    Many dressings are water-resistant. If unsure, keep it dry and ask your team at the first review.

    Note: This page supports, but does not replace, advice from your own doctor and physiotherapist.

    Preparing for Surgery
    Surgery Explained
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