Because the problems with your knees have gotten to the point that you can barely walk without pain, you and your doctor may have decided that joint replacement surgery is the best option for you. However, you may worry about the recovery period and are concerned that it will take a while to heal. Fortunately, there are a couple of things you can do while you wait for the date of your surgery that could help speed up your recovery.

1.  Make Healthy Dietary Choice

Everything you eat affects your body at the cellular level, which includes your body's white blood cells, blood-clotting capabilities, and other factors in your ability to heal properly. If you eat foods that do not contain enough of the nutrients, vitamins, and minerals to keep these cells healthy, it could contribute to a delay in your body's ability to heal itself. Also, if you are carrying around extra weight, it could put pressure on your healing knees and also delay the recovery process. 

In the weeks before your surgery, make an effort to make healthy dietary choices. Try to incorporate lean meats, fruits, and vegetables in your diet. And, if you need to lose a little weight, try to cut back on high amounts of sugary and fatty foods. For more guidance on eating before your surgery, ask your orthopedist about setting up an appointment with a nutritionist so that they can help guide you.

2.  Perform Exercises to Strengthen Your Knees

Along with good nutrition, another thing you can do before your joint replacement that could help speed up your recovery is to perform exercises to strengthen your knees and the surrounding muscles and tendons. After the surgery, you will likely be less mobile for a week or two, which can weaken the musculature around the knees and tighten up the tendons.

However, if you concentrate on strengthening the muscles and loosening the tendons beforehand, your legs will have a good foundation on which to begin regaining your strength and mobility. Speak with your doctor for recommendations on exercises you can do, or request pre-surgical physical therapy sessions for more direct guidance

Taking action in the weeks before your surgery could help speed up your recovery afterward. Speak with the orthopedist who will be performing your joint replacement surgery for guidance on exercises and dietary changes and for more tips on helping you during the recovery period.