Free Knee Replacement Pre-Op Essentials Pack

Updated: 5 hours ago

Thank you — your free Knee Replacement Pre-Op Essentials Pack is ready below. Save this page and use it as your practical preparation checklist before surgery.

What should I actually have at home?

Confirm what your hospital supplies before buying anything.

Forearm crutches or walking frame — most hospitals issue and fit these. Confirm this at pre-op so discharge is not delayed.
Ice packs or cryotherapy wrap — have a practical way to manage early swelling ready. A gel pack or frozen peas may be enough; a cuff is convenient but not essential.
Pillows or elevation wedge — prepare a comfortable setup for elevating the leg rather than building one for the first time after surgery.
Raised toilet seat or frame — a higher toilet setup can make early transfers much easier while knee bend is limited.
Stable chair with arm rests — choose a firm chair with arm rests and good back support, around knee height or slightly higher.

Recommended extras

Backpack or hands-free bag — useful when both hands are occupied by crutches.
Grabber / reacher — useful for light items on the floor while repeated bending is still tiring.
Sock aid / long-handled shoe horn — may make dressing easier while reaching the foot remains awkward.
Supportive slip-on shoes / Velcro trainers — secure footwear without awkward laces can simplify the first weeks.
Shower stool or non-slip mat — particularly useful if standing to shower or stepping over a bath will challenge balance and stamina.

Prepare the home before the operation

Secure at least one handrail if you have stairs.
Consider a one-level recovery base for the first week or two if your home has several floors.
Move everyday items so they are within easy reach.
Arrange dog walking or pet support if an animal could jump up or get under your feet.
Arrange transport for early follow-up appointments because you will not be driving immediately.
Batch-cook or organise easy meals for the first couple of weeks.

Physio tip

If you live alone, mention this at your pre-operative assessment. Sort practical support before surgery rather than discovering the gap on discharge day.

Hospital bag checklist

Loose clothing with wide leg openings that can fit over swelling and dressings.
Dressing gown and supportive flat shoes/slippers — avoid backless slippers.
Regular medication in original packaging plus a written list of doses and timings.
Toiletries, glasses, hearing aids and any mobility aids you already use.
Phone and charger — ideally with a long cable.
Next-of-kin details, allergies, admission letter and pre-op paperwork.
Earplugs / eye mask and something to pass the time.
Compression stockings if you were given them and told to bring them.

First-week support plan

Hospital collection
Meals / shopping
Pets / household jobs
Early appointments

Do not leave hospital without these answers

Walking safely is only one part of being ready to go home. Write these answers down before discharge.

What is my exact weight-bearing status?
Which exercises do you want me doing at home?
What is my pain-relief schedule?
Am I taking blood-thinning medication? If yes, for how long?
What is the plan for my wound and dressing?
When is my next review, wound check or physiotherapy appointment?
Who do I contact if I am worried after discharge?

Important

Your own surgeon and physiotherapist's operation-specific advice takes priority, particularly for medication, wound care, weight-bearing and rehabilitation.

The free pack stops here. The complete programme does not.

The Complete Knee Replacement Recovery Programme continues from surgical listing through a full year of recovery: hospital stay, walking progression, home recovery, staged rehabilitation, exercise library, return to activities, FAQs and trackers.

Get the Complete Knee Replacement Recovery Programme — £24.99