ACL or meniscus surgery can be life‑changing — but the real work starts during recovery. Having the right medical supplies at home helps reduce pain, prevent complications, and speed up healing. From cold therapy to mobility devices, each tool plays a role in ensuring you recover comfortably and safely.
1. Essential Recovery Supplies After Knee Surgery
A) Knee Braces
Your surgeon may recommend a brace depending on your procedure and stability needs.
Most common braces:
- Post‑op hinged knee brace: Limits movement to protect healing ligaments
- Functional ACL brace: Helps stabilize the joint during rehab
- Compression sleeve: Reduces swelling once you’re allowed to transition
Why you need it:
✔ Protects surgical repair
✔ Helps with controlled movement
✔ Reduces risk of reinjury
B) Cold Therapy & Ice Packs
Swelling control is one of the biggest keys to recovery.
Options include:
- Reusable gel ice packs
- Cryotherapy machines
- Ice wraps with straps
Why you need it:
✔ Reduces inflammation
✔ Decreases pain without medication
✔ Helps increase range of motion
C) Mobility Aids
Depending on your procedure, you may need:
- Crutches
- Walker
- Rollator
- Cane (typically later in recovery)
Why you need it:
✔ Helps you move safely
✔ Reduces weight‑bearing stress
✔ Supports balance and stability
D) Elevation Pillows & Wedges
Special knee elevation pillows help position your leg properly.
Why you need it:
✔ Reduces swelling
✔ Supports the knee without strain
✔ Helps maintain comfort during sleep or rest
E) Wound Care Supplies
- Sterile gauze
- Medical tape
- Antibacterial ointment
- Compression wrap (if recommended)
Why you need it:
✔ Keeps incision clean
✔ Prevents infection
✔ Helps manage light drainage
2. Week-by-Week Recovery Timeline
Week 1: Rest, Ice, Elevation & Protection
Focus: controlling swelling + protecting the repair
- Brace locked in extension
- Use crutches/walker
- Ice every 1–2 hours
- Sleep with knee elevated
- Light ankle pumps to prevent blood clots
- Keep incision dry
Helpful supplies:
✔ Post‑op brace
✔ Ice machine or gel packs
✔ Walker or crutches
✔ Elevation pillow
Week 2–3: Gentle Range of Motion
Focus: improving mobility + reducing swelling
- Start physical therapy (if prescribed)
- Gradual bending of knee to 70–90°
- Continue icing 2–3x daily
- Begin partial weight‑bearing (if approved)
Helpful supplies:
✔ PT‑safe exercise bands
✔ Compression sleeve (if cleared)
✔ Rollator for short distances
✔ Shower chair
Week 4–6: Strengthening Phase
Focus: rebuilding muscle
- Increase range of motion to 110–120°
- Begin quadriceps and hamstring strengthening
- Walking becomes easier
- Swelling should decrease significantly
Helpful supplies:
✔ Functional knee brace
✔ Light resistance bands
✔ Cane (transition phase)
✔ Foam roller
Week 6–12: Return to Daily Activities
Focus: normal walking + advanced rehab
- Walk without devices
- Moderate strengthening exercises
- Stairs become easier
- Swelling minimal or gone
Helpful supplies:
✔ Compression sleeve for comfort
✔ Regular cold therapy post‑exercise
✔ Roller & stretching tools
3. Warning Signs — When to Call Your Surgeon
Seek medical attention if you notice:
⚠ Severe or increasing pain
⚠ Fever or chills
⚠ Redness around incision
⚠ Large increase in swelling
⚠ Loss of sensation
⚠ Calf pain (possible blood clot)
4. Home Setup Tips for a Smooth Recovery
- Remove loose rugs and obstacles
- Keep essentials within reach
- Use a small backpack or crossbody pouch when using crutches
- Set up a comfortable recovery space (pillows, charger, meds organizer)
- Install grab bars if balance is a concern
Conclusion
The right supplies — combined with a smart, structured recovery plan — can make the difference between a slow, painful healing process and a comfortable, confident recovery.
Whether you’re recovering from ACL repair, meniscus surgery, or a combined procedure, having the correct equipment at home ensures safety, reduces pain, and helps you get back to normal life faster.
Preparing for knee surgery or currently recovering?
At Alfa Healthcare Supply, we carry knee braces, mobility aids, wound care supplies, elevation pillows, and more.
- Shop orthopedic recovery supplies
- Call us for brace fitting or mobility assistance
