What to Expect During Inpatient Knee Replacement Recovery

For so many, a knee replacement doesn’t just help relieve pain; it provides a new lease on life. 

Joint replacements have enabled tens of thousands of Americans to return to many of the activities they once enjoyed. Free from the grinding, “bone on bone” pain caused by deteriorating cartilage, they find their energy and enthusiasm restored. 

We have helped so many return to normal functioning after surgery, and we believe it’s important to know what to expect during inpatient knee replacement recovery.

While many are able to return home a few days after knee replacement surgery, for others, the process may take more time. Seeking care at an inpatient community like Brunswick Cove can provide the support you need so you can concentrate on recovery—free from the worry of preparing meals and maintaining a home. 

Our staff, from nurses and therapists to office employees, share a passion for caring, and that’s why we treat residents as if they were members of our own family, because in so many ways, they are. We’re family-owned and operated, so when you need something you won’t have the stress of dealing with a large corporate “phone tree” where you’re only a number. We invite you to see why so many enjoy Brunswick Cove. We’d love to show you around so you can take the next step. 

In this article, we’ll take a closer look at knee replacement recovery in skilled nursing facilities/communities. You’ll get a better understanding of what to expect and how we can help you put your best foot forward.

But first, should you choose inpatient rehab for knee replacement instead of outpatient rehab? 

Let’s take a closer look.

Why Should You Choose Inpatient Rehab for Knee Replacement Recovery?

We understand. After a procedure, you want to go home as soon as possible. But sometimes, it’s safer to spend your recovery as an inpatient. 

It’s important to realize that before you go home, you need to be able to get around your home safely, whether you’re using crutches or a walker. You would also need to be able to get out of a chair or bed, as well go to the bathroom.

There are other cases where inpatient rehab would be the right choice for you. If you fall into one of the following categories, you should speak with your doctor about the advantages of inpatient rehab:

• You had a complicated surgery
• You don’t have someone to help you at home
• You need more mobility before returning home
• You’ve had an infection
• You have a wound complication
• You have other health conditions such as diabetes, breathing difficulties or heart disease.

At Brunswick Cove, a skilled nursing facility in Winnabow, you’ll have an entire team of dedicated medical professionals on your side to help you. This team includes:

• Nurses and nurse aides
• Physical therapists
• Occupational therapists

Not sure if inpatient or outpatient would be the best option for you? Just speak with your doctor. They will be able to evaluate your individual case and tailor a recovery plan that will best meet your needs. 

What To Expect During Inpatient Knee Replacement Recovery

Every case is different and unique. Therefore, we tailor our approach to fit your individual situation. 

While many patients can leave the hospital within five days after surgery, recovery depends upon factors like your overall health, the type of procedure and if there were any complications involved during the surgery.

Physical Therapy

If you decide to go into an inpatient joint rehabilitation facility, like our community at Brunswick Cove, you can expect regular physical therapy. This is a crucial step in your recovery process. At our community, you will have access to a rehab gym, 24/7 support and a variety of equipment to help you regain as much functioning as possible.

Pain Management: How Is Pain Managed in Inpatient Knee Rehab?

While pain after a knee replacement is expected, it’s also very manageable by working closely with your health care team. 

Doctors may recommend a combination of both prescription pain medication as well as over-the-counter pain relievers. This could include NSAIDs or Tylenol—but your health care team will let you know which one is safe.

At Brunswick Cove, we partner closely with your healthcare team, carrying out the care plan they’ve created. With round-the-clock access to nursing staff and healthcare professionals, you can feel relieved knowing you’re in good hands. We’re with you every step of the way for your knee replacement recovery in a skilled nursing facility.

We’ll also work with you on non-medication strategies to help manage your pain. These may include elevating your knee or using ice.

What Milestones Should You Achieve Before Returning Home?

There’s no fixed length of stay as an inpatient. Discharge from the inpatient rehab is based upon your progress, not a set amount of time. 

Some of those milestones that should be met include:

• Being able to use a cane, walker or crutches to get around
• Getting in and out of a chair with minimal assistance
• Being able to safely maneuver to important areas of the home, such as the bathroom and bedroom.

While it is best to return home to an environment that does not have stairs, if you cannot avoid them, you should be able to safely navigate them.

During this time, our physical therapists will help you develop your strength and balance while occupational therapists will work with you to help you with activities of daily living.

How Will Recovery Continue Once You Leave Inpatient Rehab?

Even when you are discharged, your journey to recovery still continues. 

Remember that it can take up to a year to completely recover from a knee replacement. However, most can resume their usual activities within six weeks. You may still have to do some home exercises and continue to follow your surgeon’s instructions about caring for your incision.

Take the Next Step of Your Journey With Professionals Who Care

After a knee replacement, it may be safer to choose inpatient knee replacement recovery rather than going straight home. As an inpatient rehab facility, our nurses, therapists and rehab specialists will take time to truly know you. We’ll treat you as if you were a member of our own family. 

Planning to have a joint replacement? Contact us to see how inpatient rehab can help relieve some of the stress so you can concentrate on recovery.