Knee replacement surgery in Mumbai is a major invasive procedure recommended when the cartilage has worn, or you have lost knee function due to severe damage to the knee joint. The surgery restores knee function, improves mobility, and reduces pain. However, recovery can take weeks.
One of the overlooked yet essential parts of your post-operative recovery plan is the sitting position. It may not seem that important, but how you sit, stand up, and move are crucial to your recovery. In this post, we’ll discuss the optimal sitting position after knee replacement.
Benefits of Correct Sitting Position
If you’re wondering why your posture and sitting position matter after knee replacement, here’s why.
- Improves blood flow to the incision site, speeding up tissue repair and minimizing swelling and discomfort.
- Prevents pain
- Prevents strain on the replaced knee joint
- Reduce the risk of joint stiffness and other post-surgical complications
Recommended Sitting Positions
Your knee replacement surgeon in Mumbai will give you instructions regarding your posture and movement. As a general rule of thumb, here’s what you need to follow:
a) Use the Right Sitting Chair:
For the first few weeks following surgery, an adjustable chair with armrests and an appropriate height should be used. Do not bend your knee too much. While standing up, do not put weight on your knees; instead, use armrests for support.
b) Keep Your Knees Elevated:
This position is highly recommended after knee replacement surgery. You should lay with your knees slightly elevated (above your chest level) and with pillows under your legs.
c) Do Not Slouch:
Slouching can strain your back. It’s not good for your knee either. You should rather sit straight with your back straight and feet on the floor.
Tips for Maintaining a Good Posture
1) Do Not Sit Crossed-Leg:
As comfortable as it may seem, sitting crossed-leg is the worst position for people recovering from knee replacement. You don’t want to overstretch or twist your recently repaired knee joint by putting unnecessary strain on the knee. So, your safest bet is to sit straight with your knee at a 90°angle and your foot on the floor.
2) Avoid Sitting In the Same Position for Too Long:
Do not sit for hours in the same position. If you are sitting in the recliner for an hour, get up and move around with a walking aid. Elevate your legs every few hours to relieve your knees and improve circulation.
3) Avoid Bending:
Your surgeon will most likely clarify this point after knee replacement. Bending your knee will strain them. Moreover, it can be super uncomfortable and uneasy.
4) Use Pillows:
Using pillows underneath your foot can help support your knee joint, especially when you sit with your knees elevated.
Conclusion
That’s all. A simple step can go a long way in accelerating healing and restoring your full range of motion. Your posture and sitting position can make a huge difference to your recovery. So, sit in a position that feels comfortable and takes the pressure off of your replaced joint. Consult your surgeon if you have difficulty sitting or aren’t sure about the best sitting positi ons.
