Riding in a car is often one of the first activities that knee replacement patients look forward to doing after surgery. Being able to get out of the house and go places is an important step in the recovery process. However, it’s important to follow your surgeon’s guidelines on when it’s safe to ride in a vehicle.
When can you ride in a car after knee replacement surgery?
Most surgeons recommend waiting at least 2 weeks after surgery before riding in a car. Some may even advise waiting up to 4-6 weeks, depending on your specific case. Here are some general guidelines on when it’s ok to ride in a car after knee replacement surgery:
- After 2 weeks: Short car trips (less than 30 minutes) are usually ok, as long as you take breaks to get out and stretch your leg.
- After 4 weeks: Riding for longer periods is generally safe, but still take regular breaks to move around.
- After 6 weeks: At this point, most patients can handle car rides of any length without issue.
The first couple of times riding in a vehicle, it’s wise to have someone else drive. This allows you to better control leg positioning and take adequate rest breaks. Always discuss your plans with your surgeon – they may have specific recommendations on when to limit or avoid riding based on your progress.
Precautions when riding in a car after knee replacement
Once your surgeon clears you to ride in a car, there are important precautions to take for a safe, comfortable trip:
- Use proper leg positioning – Keep your knee bent slightly for comfort, and rest your foot on the floorboard. Avoid letting your knee hyperextend. Place a pillow under the knee for extra support.
- Recline the seatback – Tilting the seatback can take pressure off the knee. But avoid leaning the seat back more than 30 degrees.
- Elevate the leg – Use a pillow or blanket roll under the ankle to keep the knee bent and elevated. This prevents swelling.
- Take breaks – Stop every 30-45 minutes to get out and walk around. This stimulates blood flow.
- Sit near an exit – Choosing the front passenger seat or seat behind the driver allows easier door access.
- Use caution entering/exiting – Take your time getting in and out of the vehicle. Move slowly and use the grab handles. Have assistance if needed.
Always listen to your body during the drive. Pull over and rest if you experience significant knee pain, stiffness or swelling.
Long car trips after knee replacement
Long car rides can be challenging right after knee replacement surgery. If travel is necessary, be sure to take the trip 6 weeks post-op or later. Here are some tips for car trips over 1-2 hours long:
- Stop every 45-60 minutes to stretch your legs.
- Perform ankle pumps and gentle knee bends during the drive to stimulate circulation.
- Pack a small cooler with ice packs and water bottles.
- Bring a large pillow or knee bolster for extra support.
- Wear loose, comfortable clothing.
- Consider limiting long trips to 3-4 hours max until at least 3 months post-op.
- Have someone else drive when possible.
Make frequent stops to use restrooms, have a meal, or overnight in a hotel. This allows you to fully rest the knee. Listen to your surgeon’s advice and your body’s signals when planning any long distance travel.
Tips for the passenger after knee replacement
As a knee replacement passenger, you can take steps for a more comfortable ride:
- Ask the driver to avoid sudden stops and starts.
- Request help entering and exiting the vehicle.
- Sit near an exit for easy door access.
- Bring cushions and pillows for propping up the knee.
- Pack snacks, medications, ice packs and other necessities.
- Communicate any knee discomfort immediately so the driver can pull over.
- Remind the driver of the need for frequent rest stops (every 30-45 minutes).
- Stretch your leg during stops to avoid stiffness.
Be assertive about speaking up when you need to adjust your position, elevate your leg or take a break. Small adjustments can make a big difference in comfort over a long drive.
Tips for the driver of a knee replacement passenger
As the driver, you can help make car travel as smooth as possible:
- Assist the passenger when entering/exiting the vehicle.
- Avoid sudden braking or acceleration.
- Remind the passenger to prop up their leg and take breaks.
- Stop every 30-45 minutes for the passenger to move around.
- Create space for leg elevation by removing items from the floorboards.
- Watch the passenger for signs of discomfort.
- Keep the vehicle cool with air conditioning.
- Drive slowly and avoid bumps when possible.
Communication is key – check in regularly on your passenger’s comfort level. Expect to go slower and make more frequent stops than usual. With planning and patience, car travel can be made smoother after knee surgery.
Using rideshare services after knee replacement
Rideshare services like Uber or Lyft provide transportation without having to drive yourself. But is it safe to use them after a knee replacement? Here are some tips if you choose to use a rideshare:
- Wait until at least 2 weeks after surgery before riding in a rideshare.
- Inform the driver ahead of time that you recently had knee surgery.
- Request a larger vehicle for more leg room.
- Bring pillows, cushions and ice packs to make yourself comfortable.
- Sit near the door for easy access.
- Politely ask the driver to brake and accelerate gently.
- Plan shorter trips under 30 minutes to start.
- Carry pain medication with you in case the drive aggravates knee pain.
While rideshares can provide needed transportation, they do present challenges for recent knee replacement patients. The drivers will likely not be trained on how to best accommodate your condition. Taxis may have more room to prop up your leg than smaller rideshare cars. Weigh the benefits and risks before using any ride services after surgery.
When can you drive after knee replacement surgery?
Most surgeons recommend waiting at least 4-6 weeks before driving after a knee replacement. Some key factors in determining when you can drive include:
- Regaining mobility and reaction time – You’ll need your knee to be flexible enough to enter/exit the car and press pedals safely.
- Discontinuing narcotic pain medication – You shouldn’t drive while taking prescription opioid pain relievers.
- Feeling confident controlling the vehicle – Driving requires concentration and reflexes for safe operation.
- Having approval from your doctor – They will assess your progress and determine when your knee function is suitable for driving.
Start by practicing with short trips in familiar areas before progressing to highway driving. Only drive when your leg is no longer impaired. Avoid long distances or busy traffic until the 8 week mark or later.
Conclusion
Riding as a passenger in a car is possible in the first weeks after knee replacement surgery. But always get your surgeon’s approval first. Limit car trips to essential short journeys at first. Wait several weeks before attempting longer drives. Take proper leg positioning and frequent breaks. Listen to your body and don’t push yourself before you’re ready. With some adjustments and planning, car travel can typically be made comfortable after a knee replacement.