How to Reduce Swelling After Knee Replacement Surgery: A Step-by-Step Guide

Swelling is a normal and expected part of healing after knee replacement surgery. Your body increases blood flow and fluid to the area to help with recovery. However, excessive swelling can lead to discomfort, stiffness, and delayed recovery.

The good news? Cold therapy, elevation, and compression can help manage swelling and improve your recovery. Here’s a guide to help you minimize swelling after knee replacement surgery, ensuring a smoother and faster recovery.

Step 1: Controlling Swelling in the First 2 Weeks

The first two weeks after surgery are critical for managing swelling and ensuring that your knee heals properly. Here are some steps you can follow:

✅ Elevate Your Leg the Right Way

Keep your foot higher than your heart for 40 minutes every hour while awake.
Avoid placing pillows under your knee—instead, support your ankle and calf to prevent knee stiffness and reduce swelling.

✅ Use Cold Therapy (Ice Machines or Ice Packs)

Cold therapy is an effective way to reduce pain and swelling. Below are a couple of options you can consider:

💰 Budget-Friendly Option: NEHOO Cold Therapy System

This affordable, HSA/FSA-eligible cold therapy machine provides continuous cryotherapy for pain and swelling relief.
https://amzn.to/3EwCQhA – HSA/FSA eligible

💎 Premium Option: Polar Active Ice 3.0 Cold Therapy System

A premium cold therapy machine with a programmable timer and large 9-quart reservoir for extended sessions, making it customizable to your needs.
https://amzn.to/3WWPqwY – HSA/FSA eligible

If you prefer reusable ice packs, the REVIX XXXL Ice Pack is the ideal solution:

REVIX Ice Pack for Knee Pain Relief (XXXL Size) – Ideal for larger areas, providing targeted relief for swelling and pain after knee replacement surgery.
https://amzn.to/40Yyw2t

✅ Wear the Right Compression Device

Compression helps reduce swelling by improving circulation. To make things easier for you, I’ve provided recommended options that cover your leg from foot to thigh, which are more effective than traditional compression stockings like ACE wraps or TED hose.

Recommended Compression Devices:

EdemaWear Compression Stockinette – An affordable and effective option that reduces swelling and promotes lymphatic drainage.
https://www.thecompressioncloset.com/product/edemawear-compression-garments/ – HSA/FSA eligible
ReadyWrap Compression Wrap – A premium, customizable compression wrap that provides adjustable compression from foot to thigh, suitable for managing swelling after surgery.
https://www.thecompressioncloset.com/product/edemawear-compression-garments/

✅ Stay Active (But Don’t Overdo It)

Take short walks every hour (just 5–10 steps initially).
Perform gentle knee bends, heel slides, and ankle pumps every hour to improve circulation and mobility.
Follow a step count progression:
- Week 1: Max 750 steps per day
- Week 2: Max 1,200 steps per day
- Gradually increase based on swelling and pain.

Step 2: Managing Swelling Beyond 2 Weeks

As your recovery continues, here are additional steps to help manage swelling:

✅ Continue Elevation & Cold Therapy

Continue icing 3 times per day for at least 40 minutes per session.
Keep elevating your leg for 40 minutes, at least 3 times a day.

✅ Increase Activity Gradually

Week 3: 2,000 steps per day
Week 4: 2,750 steps per day
Week 5: 3,500 steps per day
Week 6: 4,500 steps per day
Progress by 1,000 steps per week based on pain and swelling.

✅ Maintain Proper Nutrition & Hydration

Stick to an anti-inflammatory diet (Mediterranean-style foods).
Stay hydrated to help flush out excess fluid and reduce swelling.
Consider a lymphatic support supplement like VITA SupportMD Vein Formula for circulation and swelling relief.
https://amzn.to/4go5bUD

✅ Use Compression Therapy If Needed

If swelling persists, continue wearing compression wraps or consider lymphatic drainage massage to aid in the reduction of edema.

When to Call Your Doctor

Swelling is a normal part of recovery, but excessive swelling can indicate a complication. Contact your healthcare provider if you experience:

Sudden or worsening swelling
Redness or warmth around the knee
Severe pain or difficulty moving the leg
Calf pain or swelling in one leg (possible blood clot)

Final Thoughts: Take Control of Your Recovery

Managing swelling is essential for faster recovery after knee replacement surgery. Whether you choose a budget-friendly cold therapy solution or a premium option, along with proper compression and elevation, you can reduce swelling and get back to normal activities sooner.

📅 Ready to optimize your recovery?

Schedule an appointment with Dr. Trevor Stefanski today!