3 Things To Know About Recovering From Knee Replacement Surgery
If you injured your knee or have been living with arthritis, your orthopedist may recommend a replacement surgery. While the surgery does not actually replace the entire knee joint, replacement surgery does improve mobility and pain levels associated with an injury or arthritis. Although an estimated 700,000 knee replacements are performed each year in the United States, most people do not understand the severity of this procedure. Taking the proper steps during your recovery is imperative to ensure the surgery's success. With this guide, you will learn a few key points that can help you through your recovery after knee replacement surgery.
Rehab Starts Fast
You may be surprised to hear your doctor ask you to stand and walk immediately after surgery. However, it is important to know that you will begin rehabilitation fast to ensure the most effective results after the surgery.
Each person is different, but you will most likely be asked to stand up and walk within the first day of your surgery. Of course, a orthopedic physical therapist will be with you to guide you on your way. You may use a mobility aid, such as a walker or cane at first, but you should be able to walk without this device after a few attempts.
Starting rehabilitation so soon after surgery may seem frightening, but it is the best way for your surgeon to see how the new components in your knee function. In addition, starting rehabilitation so soon will improve blood circulation, which is necessary for easing pain and decreasing swelling around the incision site.
Rehab Should Continue
A common misconception many patients have is that they no longer need to worry about their rehabilitation once they leave the hospital. Unfortunately, this can lead to a slow and painful recovery in some instances.
Once your surgeon discharges you from the hospital, you are not out of hot water. You should schedule appointments with a physical therapist to continue your exercises for rehabilitation.
Your therapist may be able to come to your home, but visiting their office is helpful because they will have a quality selection of exercise equipment. In addition, physical therapy may involve massage and hydrotherapy, so undergoing these holistic treatments will be beneficial for you, as well.
Recovery Is a Process
Another important fact you need to know is that your recovery will be a process. You, your surgeon, and your physical therapist will design a plan that will help you reach certain goals at specific times.
During your process of recovery, you will complete a variety of exercises that may include walking on a treadmill, completing yoga poses and stretches, and using weights.
Swimming is also an effective exercise many physical therapists suggest because. While it is enjoyable, swimming also allows you to work out your knee and rest of the body without placing a great deal of stress on your joints.
These exercises will all strengthen the ligaments and muscles connected to your knee while improving the joint function so you can bend, walk, and run without stiffness and pain.
Eventually, you will be able to bend the knee and walk on your own, without a mobility aid and without any discomfort, pain, or stiffness. You should also be able to complete these tasks without taking prescription medications to reduce inflammation and pain.
Engaging in proper physical therapy will improve how well your knee functions in the future. On average, most patients are able to resume normal activities within 6 to 8 weeks after their knee replacement surgery.
Understanding the recovery process is essential for any surgery. This guide and your surgeon's help will ensure you are ready, willing, and able for your recovery from knee replacement surgery.
