Traveling After Knee or Hip Replacement Surgery – Safety Tips By Dr. Kashyap Solanki

Traveling after knee or hip replacement surgery can be an exciting milestone in your recovery journey. However, it requires careful planning and adherence to safety precautions to ensure comfort and prevent complications. Here are essential tips for safely traveling with a new joint.

Consult Your Healthcare Provider Before Travel

Always discuss your travel plans with your surgeon or physical therapist. Individual recovery varies, and a healthcare professional can provide personalized advice on timing and precautions based on your progress.

Timing Your Travel

• Most surgeons recommend waiting at least 4 to 6 weeks post-surgery before undertaking significant travel.

• For long-distance travel, especially flights longer than 4 hours, it’s best to wait until your mobility is sufficient and swelling has reduced.

  
  

Preventing Blood Clots (Deep Vein Thrombosis)

Blood clots are a risk after joint replacement surgery, especially during long periods of immobility. To reduce the risk:

• Wear compression stockings during travel.

• Take any prescribed blood-thinning medications as directed.

• Keep moving: walk around every hour during flights or take frequent breaks while driving to stretch your legs and perform ankle pumps and calf raises.

Manage Pain and Swelling

• Use cold packs during breaks to reduce swelling.

• Take pain medications as prescribed before and during travel to stay comfortable.

Comfortable Travel Setup

• Choose an aisle seat on planes for easy access to restrooms and walking breaks.

• Use supports like pillows or cushions to keep your joint in a comfortable position.

• When driving, take frequent stops for stretching and walking, and avoid lengthy non-stop trips.

Packing Essentials

• Keep medications within reach, along with any mobility aids such as crutches or a cane.

• Include snacks and water to stay hydrated.

Airport and Security Tips

• Inform airport authority about your joint replacement for smoother screening.

• Request assistance or wheelchair services if needed to reduce walking distances during transfers.

• Carry your documents stating your replacement surgery.

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About Dr. Kashyap Prabhu Solanki & Dr. Prabhu Solanki

Orthopaedic Surgeon – Andheri, Mumbai

Dr. Kashyap Solanki specializes in hip and knee replacement, robotic-assisted knee surgery, and joint preservation procedures like HTO, arthroscopy, and ligament reconstruction. He is also known for performing complex revision joint replacements and managing challenging upper and lower limb fractures. With a focus on precision and patient-centered care, Dr. Solanki helps restore mobility and improve quality of life through advanced orthopaedic solutions.

With over four decades of distinguished orthopaedic practice, Dr. Prabhu Solanki stands as one of Mumbai’s most experienced and respected orthopaedic surgeons. Having treated more than 40,000 patients and performed over 10,000 surgeries, his clinical outcomes and dedication have earned him widespread recognition — not just in Mumbai, but across India and abroad.

Dr. Solanki’s reputation for precision, ethical care, and long-term results has brought him patients from all over India, as well as international patients seeking high-quality orthopaedic treatment and surgical expertise in Mumbai.

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