If you and your doctor have decided that surgery is the right option for you, you will want to prepare for the surgery. By informing yourself as much as you can, you will feel more confident about what will happen during the surgery and how to make your recovery as manageable and positive as it can be.
It is always a good idea to get a clear picture of the surgical procedure, the recovery period and living long-term with a prosthetic knee. Building a clear mental picture of how much you can bend your knee, what activities you can do post-surgery and what type and level of pain you will experience post-surgery is an important first step. Feeling empowered to ask about your doctor’s experience with knee replacements, success rate, and advice on recovery plans will go a long way to help make your knee replacement a success. Don’t be afraid to speak up. It’s important for you to let your doctor know if you don’t understand something. Remember to be your own advocate and trust your instincts, you deserve to feel confident in this decision to alleviate the pain you’re experiencing.
Questions to discuss with your doctor