Knee replacement surgery gives people with severe knee damage a chance to use their leg properly once again. Modern prosthetics and updated techniques mean patients suffer less trauma and pain during the surgery and can recover faster. That said, the road to recovery is still far from short and easy. Nevertheless, understanding the recovery process from knee replacement surgery can help you prepare and fully commit to rehabilitation.
Right After Surgery
When you wake up from knee replacement surgery, you will most likely not feel any pain symptoms immediately. However, soon after the pain medications wear off, you will feel pain. While at the hospital, your doctor and nurses will manage your pain using pain medications. You will also be given antibiotics to reduce the risk of infection.
Almost immediately following surgery, you will begin walking and moving the knee using assistive devices, such as a walker or crutches. Under the guidance of a physical therapist, you’ll be able to practice moving around your room and going to the bathroom.
Once you go home, you will need to rest, but also move around frequently to prevent scar tissue formation in the knee. You should have a loved one available for at least the first couple of weeks as your knee heals. Avoid taking a shower for about a week, unless you are using a waterproof dressing. Watch out for signs of an infection and let your doctor know immediately if you have a fever or the surgery wound is red, warm to the touch, is bleeding, or has discharged. These are signs of an infection that will need immediate treatment. While at home, you will take pain medications of various strengths to control pain symptoms. In the beginning, you will likely use stronger medications as pain symptoms will be more severe immediately following surgery.
Physical Rehabilitation After Knee Replacement Surgery
As much as possible, you will need to move the knee to recover quickly. Soon after your wound heals, your surgeon will instruct you to begin physical therapy exercises. Stick to the exercise program from your physical therapist, which should progress into more challenging exercises as your health improves.
During the first few weeks, you’ll focus on range-of-motion exercises. Initially, you won’t be able to bend or extend your knee fully. With regular workouts, you’ll slowly regain flexibility in the knee. These movements should also help strengthen the muscles, tendons, and ligaments near the knee, allowing you to put more weight on the joint.
Exercise helps accelerate healing by improving blood circulation, thus providing the knee with a healthy supply of oxygen and nutrients. Physical activity also stimulates the various muscles that support the knee, allowing for better support during movements.
Returning to Normal After Knee Replacement Surgery
After about two-three months, your knee should be strong enough for you to slowly reduce your dependency on assistive devices. You may also begin doing more rigorous exercises that involve compound movements, under the instruction and monitoring of your physical therapist. These exercises include other joints, such as the hips or ankles, and they will help you develop better body coordination and strength.
You should be able to return to office work after about six-eight weeks, provided that you don’t have to put excessive strain on your knee in the workplace. You might also be well enough to drive, although you must consult with your doctor first. High-impact exercises will be off-limits for a few more months. Jogging, cycling, and most sports require excessive strength that your knee will still lack at this point.
Make sure to attend regular checkups with your surgeon to check on the progress of your knee recovery.
Medical Care for Knee Replacement Surgery
If you are considering getting a knee replacement, it could be a life-changer. Many people live with restricted mobility and a less active lifestyle due to debilitating knee pain. Knee replacement surgery could give you your life back.
If you are interested in learning more about knee replacement surgery and whether it’s the right procedure for you, visit the experts at North Naples Surgery Center today. We provide compassionate and comprehensive care for patients who need procedures, such as knee replacement.
You may call us at (239) 591-2803 to make an appointment or request one online. We look forward to serving you soon.
