Knee Recovery Process
A total knee replacement typically requires a hospital stay of a couple of days. There may be some pain, but nerve blocks and pain medications can help control it.
During the hospital stay, the patient is encouraged to move the foot and ankle. This increases blood flow to the leg muscles. It also helps prevent swelling and blood clots. Blood thinners, support hose and compression boots can also help protect against swelling and clotting.
The day after surgery, a physical therapist shows how to exercise the new knee. During the first few weeks of recovery, it's important to follow all instructions regarding wound care, diet and exercise. A typical physical activity program includes:
- A graduated walking program, first indoors, then outdoors.
- Slow resumption of other household activities, including navigating stairs.
- Knee-strengthening exercises prescribed by the physical therapist.
Three to six weeks after knee replacement surgery, most people resume many normal daily activities. These include shopping and light housekeeping. Driving may possible within four to six weeks. There must be enough muscle control to operate brakes and accelerator, of course, and the knee must bend adequately.
After recovery, most people enjoy a variety of low-impact activities such as walking, swimming, golfing or biking. But higher impact activities may be out. Examples include jogging, skiing, tennis, and sports requiring contact or jumping, More than 90% of individuals who undergo total knee replacement experience a dramatic reduction of knee pain and regain the ability to perform common activities.
Sources:
http://orthoinfo.aaos.org/topic.cfm?topic=A00389
http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/knee-replacement/MY00091/METHOD=print
|
