Following Your Surgery

After surgery, you may have questions about your recovery. Maybe you want to know when you can take a shower or how much weight you can put on your leg. Don't be afraid to ask a member of your health care team.

Things to Know

Before you go home, be sure you know:

• How to take your medication.
• How to use crutches.
• How much weight to put on your leg.
• What exercises to do and how often.
• When your bandage or sutures will be removed.
• When you can shower or bathe.
• When you can start driving again.
• When you can return to work.
• When you can be fully active again.
• When you should schedule follow-up visits.
• The answer to any other questions you may have.

Call Your Doctor If:

Call your surgeon right away if you notice any of the following warning signs:

• You have a fever of 101ºF or higher.
• Your pain does not lessen after taking medication or resting.
• You have increased swelling not helped by elevating or icing your knee.
• The incision site is red, tender or warm.
• You are bleeding through your bandage.
• You have severe nausea.
• You have chest pain or shortness of breath.

This content is not intended as a substitute for professional medical care. Only your doctor can diagnose and treat a medical problem. © 1990, 1995, 1998, 2000 The StayWell Company, 1100 Grundy Lane, San Bruno, CA 94066-3030. www.krames.com 800-333-3032. All right reserved.