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6 Vital Factors for a Successful Recovery
1. ELEVATION is for swelling. It is normal to have increased swelling in your legs once you are home. You need to elevate your leg above the level of your heart for at least 30 minutes two times a day.
2. ICE is for pain. It is normal to have some increase in pain after you are at home. You need to ice your knee for 20 minutes while you are elevating your leg, at least two times a day. Remember to protect your skin by placing a layer of cloth between the ice and your skin (such as a towel or pillow case).
3. BLOOD CLOT PREVENTION. Your surgeon has prescribed a blood thinner for you. This medication must be taken as prescribed at the same time every day.
4. CONSTIPATION. Constipation is normal after surgery. If you have not had a bowel movement in 2 days, you need to take Miralax twice a day until you have a bowel movement.
5. ACTIVITY AS TOLERATED. It is very important to move and stay active once you are at home. You need to be up and moving as tolerated. If you feel you have over exerted yourself, your first step needs to be to rest, ice and elevate your leg.
6. NUTRITION. Calorie and protein needs are higher after your surgical procedure. Proper nutrition is important for optimal healing and recovery. Aim to eat 3 well balance meals a day with 2 snacks as tolerated.