After Surgery Equipment Suggestions - Total Knee Replacement

Total Knee Replacement: 12 Helpful Items for After Surgery

Recovering from a total knee replacement can be easier when you have the right equipment ready at home. In the video above, physical therapist assistants Mike and Alex share 12 helpful items for knee replacement recovery that may improve safety, comfort, mobility, and rehabilitation after surgery.

Every patient’s recovery is different, so you may not need everything on this list. Your surgeon or healthcare team can help determine which items are appropriate for you.

Helpful equipment after total knee replacement may include:

1. Ice packs – Help manage pain, swelling, and inflammation.

2. Pillow wedge or extra pillows – Elevate the leg to help reduce swelling.

3. Walker, crutches, or cane – Provide support and improve safety while walking.

4. Toilet riser or over-the-toilet commode – Makes sitting down and standing up easier when knee bending is limited.

5. Leg lifter – Helps move the surgical leg, especially when getting in and out of bed.

6. Tub transfer bench or shower chair – Provides a safer way to get into the shower and allows you to sit while bathing.

7. Grab bars – Add extra support around the shower, toilet, or other areas of the home.

8. Handrails on steps – Improve safety when navigating stairs after knee replacement surgery.

9. Reacher – Allows you to pick up objects without bending or squatting.

10. Sock aid and long shoehorn – Make getting dressed easier when reaching your feet is difficult.

11. Knee Glide and stool – Useful tools for working on knee bending, range of motion, and stretching throughout recovery.

12. Ace wraps or compression garments – May help control swelling when recommended by your surgeon.

Preparing these knee replacement recovery essentials before surgery can make everyday activities easier once you return home.

Watch the video above to see Mike and Alex explain each piece of equipment and how it may be used during your total knee replacement recovery. Always follow your surgeon’s recommendations regarding assistive devices, compression, exercises, and post-surgical precautions.