Our Summary

This study looked at what factors affect how quickly elderly people start moving around after having total knee replacement surgery, and how this impacts the risk of falling and the length of their hospital stay. It found that early mobilization, or moving within 24 hours of surgery, was influenced by a number of factors including age, overall health score, pain levels, muscle strength, post-surgery nausea, and changes in blood pressure. A bigger drop in blood pressure after surgery was linked to delayed mobilization. The study also found that patients who started moving earlier had shorter hospital stays, but there was no difference in the risk of falls between those who started moving earlier and those who didn’t. The researchers suggest that keeping blood pressure stable after surgery could help patients start moving earlier.

FAQs

  1. What factors affect how quickly elderly people start moving around after knee replacement surgery?
  2. Does early mobilization after knee replacement surgery impact the length of hospital stay and the risk of falling?
  3. How does a drop in blood pressure after surgery affect early mobilization post knee replacement?

Doctor’s Tip

A helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about knee replacement is to focus on early mobilization after surgery. Moving around within 24 hours of the procedure can help improve recovery time and potentially shorten your hospital stay. It is important to follow your healthcare provider’s guidance on managing pain, maintaining muscle strength, and monitoring changes in blood pressure to support early mobilization. Keeping blood pressure stable after surgery may also help you start moving sooner. Remember to communicate any concerns or challenges with your healthcare team to ensure a successful recovery process.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended for knee replacement surgery are those who have severe knee pain that limits their daily activities, have not found relief from other treatments such as medications or physical therapy, have significant joint damage or deformity, and have not had success with less invasive surgical procedures such as arthroscopy. Additionally, patients who are in good overall health and are motivated to participate in physical therapy and rehabilitation after surgery are also good candidates for knee replacement.

Timeline

  • Before knee replacement surgery:
  1. Patient consults with orthopedic surgeon and undergoes pre-operative assessments and tests.
  2. Patient may undergo physical therapy and strengthening exercises to prepare for surgery.
  3. Surgery date is scheduled and patient is advised on pre-operative preparations such as fasting and medications to avoid.
  4. Patient undergoes knee replacement surgery, typically under general anesthesia.
  5. Patient is monitored in the recovery room before being transferred to a hospital room.
  • After knee replacement surgery:
  1. Patient is encouraged to start moving and walking with the help of physical therapists within 24 hours of surgery.
  2. Patient may experience pain and discomfort, which is managed with pain medications.
  3. Patient undergoes post-operative rehabilitation to regain strength and mobility in the knee.
  4. Patient is discharged from the hospital once they are able to walk with assistance and perform daily activities independently.
  5. Patient continues with outpatient physical therapy and exercises at home to further improve knee function.
  6. Patient gradually resumes normal activities and may experience improvements in pain and mobility over time.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What are the potential risks and complications associated with knee replacement surgery?
  2. How long will the recovery process take and what can I expect in terms of pain management?
  3. Will I need physical therapy after the surgery and for how long?
  4. How soon after the surgery can I start moving around and what can I do to promote early mobilization?
  5. What steps can I take to prevent falls during my recovery period?
  6. How can I ensure my blood pressure stays stable after surgery?
  7. Are there any specific exercises or activities I should avoid during my recovery?
  8. What can I do to strengthen my muscles and improve my overall health before the surgery to help with my recovery?
  9. How will my overall health and age impact how quickly I can start moving after the surgery?
  10. How will the surgery impact my daily activities and mobility in the long term?

Reference

Authors: Hung LL, Chen YC, Wang YT, Wang SP. Journal: BMC Geriatr. 2025 Feb 20;25(1):118. doi: 10.1186/s12877-025-05772-5. PMID: 39979824