Tips For Travel After Knee Replacement Surgery

If you have a surgery scheduled for knee replacement, you may be wondering how soon you will be able to get back to normal life. For many, this includes travel after knee replacement surgery either by car or by airplane. Both of these will require you to sit for longer periods of time in a cramped position. We will discuss some precautions you can take to make travel after knee replacement more comfortable after your initial healing period of 6-10 weeks.

Air travel after knee replacement surgery

Will you be able to make your daughter’s wedding the summer after your surgery? Questions like this may weigh on your mind as you schedule your knee replacement. Air travel poses some unique challenges. It often involves lots of walking to and from your gate, sitting in a small seat for several hours, and the added concern of developing a blood clot. Here are some precautions you can take to have a safe and comfortable flight:

• Wear compression socks to prevent a potential blood clot
• Get up and walk around as often as possible
• Stay hydrated by drinking water and avoiding alcohol and coffee
• Stretch and flex your muscles

By following these recommendations you will be able to enjoy your flight and arrive at your destination with minimal discomfort.

Car travel after knee replacement

Ready for that next road trip? Once your initial recovery period ends, you can make plans to hit the open road. Aside from the cries of “Are we there yet?” from the back seat, car travel after knee replacement shouldn’t cause you too much anguish if you follow these simple tips:

• Take frequent breaks and walk around
• If possible, switch from driver to passenger to give your driving leg a break
• Stretch out your legs and flex your muscles as often as you can

Even if you haven’t used any assistive devices during your recovery period, you may want to consider using a cane, walker, or crutch while you are traveling to relieve some of the stress on your knee joint.

The specialists at Colorado Springs Orthopaedic Group are your best choice for your knee replacement surgery. We can also provide physical therapy services as well as support during the healing process. Give us a call today if you have any questions about travel after knee replacement.