Recovering from knee surgery can be a challenging journey, not just physically but also in terms of everyday convenience and comfort. One aspect that can significantly ease this process is choosing the right clothing. Adaptive clothing is designed to accommodate mobility limitations while providing comfort and ease during the recovery period.
Read on to learn more about how adaptive clothing options can help enhance comfort and facilitate mobility during this crucial healing phase.
Best Adaptive Clothing to Wear After Knee Surgery
Velcro or Snap Pants: These pants come with Velcro or snap fasteners along the sides, allowing them to be easily opened and closed. This feature is especially helpful for individuals recovering from knee surgery, as it minimises the need to bend or twist the knee while dressing or undressing..
Wrap-around Skirts or Shorts: These garments are designed to wrap around the waist and secure with Velcro, ties, or snaps. They are particularly useful for individuals who have limited mobility in their knees, as they don't require lifting the legs through pant legs.
Elastic Waistband Pants: Pants with elastic waistbands are easy to pull on and off without bending or stressing the knee. They are also typically more comfortable to wear, especially when swelling or stiffness is a concern post-surgery.
Open-back Shirts and Gowns: These allow for easy dressing and undressing without needing to raise arms or twist the body, which can be helpful for someone with limited mobility in their knees.
Compression Garments: While not traditionally thought of as 'adaptive clothing,' compression garments like socks or sleeves can be beneficial in managing swelling and improving circulation in the legs and around the knee area after surgery.
How is Mobility Limited After Knee Surgery?
After knee surgery, several mobility concerns typically arise due to pain, swelling, and the healing process.
Reduced Range of Motion: Swelling and pain post-surgery can limit the knee's ability to bend and straighten fully. This reduced range of motion can affect walking, sitting, standing, and climbing stairs.
Swelling and Pain: Pain and swelling are common after knee surgery and can significantly limit mobility. Managing these symptoms is crucial for recovery and regaining movement.
Weight-Bearing Difficulties: Depending on the type of surgery, there might be restrictions on how much weight can be placed on the operated leg. This can affect the ability to stand or walk without assistance.
Muscle Weakness: The muscles around the knee may become weak due to inactivity or the surgery itself. This weakness can make it challenging to perform movements like standing up from a seated position or climbing stairs.
Balance Issues: Post-surgery, individuals may experience balance problems, increasing the risk of falls. This is due to a combination of muscle weakness, reduced range of motion, and the use of pain medications that can affect coordination.
Stiffness: Joint stiffness, particularly in the morning or after prolonged sitting, is common. This can make the first few steps or movements quite difficult.
Fatigue: Healing from surgery can be physically and emotionally draining, leading to increased fatigue, which can impact overall mobility.
Need for Assistive Devices: Many individuals require the use of crutches, a walker, or a cane during the initial stages of recovery to aid in mobility and reduce strain on the knee.
Addressing these concerns through physical therapy, following post-operative instructions, and using adaptive equipment are key to a successful recovery and regaining full mobility.
If you or a loved one are currently recovering from knee surgery and in need of adaptive clothing to make daily life more comfortable and manageable, don't hesitate to reach out to our team at Adaptive Clothing Australia.
We're here to provide you with the right apparel solutions to aid in your recovery.
Contact us today to explore our range of adaptive clothing options tailored for post-surgery needs.
Disclaimer: The content provided in this blog is for informational, educational, and entertainment purposes only. We are not medical professionals and the information should not be considered as professional medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider for medical advice and treatment.
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