Total Joint Replacement Educational Series Part 13: Swelling and Bruising After Total Knee and Total Hip Replacement

·               Bruising may last for up to 6-8 weeks.  This is part of the normal healing process.

·               Being on the blood thinner after surgery can contribute to this bruising too.  However, this medication is very important so please continue to use it as you are directed.

·               Swelling of the leg, and down into the foot, can sometimes last for two or three months.

THINGS YOU CAN DO TO MINIMIZE THE

SWELLING AND BRUISING:

·               Elevate the leg when you are not doing your exercises or when you are resting.

·               For the first two to three weeks after your surgery, ice your knee or hip for 20 minutes every hour and also after exercising.  This will help to minimize both the swelling and the bruising.  After a total knee replacement, using your CPM (Continuous Passive Motion) will improve your range of motion, make your knee feel better and reduce swelling.