Short and Long Term Care of your New Knee and Hip

It is important to watch for and prevent infection. Because your new joint is so sensitive to infections, you must be diligent in preventing them.

Here are some of the warning signs you must look out for:

  • Pain or swelling in the calf
  • Wound becoming red or oozing
  • Pain that is not relieved by medication

You MUST contact your surgeon immediately if the above symptoms occur. If you get an infection anywhere in your body (for example: skin, urine, chest, throat, teeth) the infection can get into the bloodstream and spread to your joint. Please notify your surgeon or surgical team if you are being placed on a course of antibiotics.

Follow Up Care
Upon discharge from the hospital, you will generally be given a schedule of follow up visits. These visits are important to keep as they will ensure the long-term success of your operation. Your surgeon will check your progress several times in the first year and annually after that.
Weight Control
Keeping your weight under control will reduce the amount of pressure and stress on your new joint. Avoid high impact sports, and with your doctor’s permission participate in low impact activities such as walking, swimming, golfing or cycling. These are excellent ways to strengthen your new joint and get the exercise you need to stay fit.
Surgical Procedures
If you are scheduled to have surgery in the future, even minor surgery, you must notify your surgeon and the health professional involved before the procedure. This also applies to any other invasive procedures. The reason for this precaution is that your surgeon may want to put you on antibiotics as a precautionary measure to help prevent any infections that may cause harm to your new joint.