What Is The Recovery Process After A Knee Replacement?
Knee replacement surgery is a serious procedure that is performed by an orthopedic surgeon to relieve pain and restore function to the damaged joint. The procedure is commonly performed on patients who suffer from osteoarthritis. Those who suffer from osteoarthritis experience excruciating pain, and surgery is typically the only way to get relief. Those who struggle with standing up, sitting down, going upstairs, and walking are prime candidates for a knee replacement. After a knee replacement, recovery is critical to ensure the joint heals correctly, and it helps you get back to how your lifestyle was before the injury. At New York Sports Medicine Institute, our orthopedic in Franklin Lakes, NJ can perform the procedure minimally invasive and assist the patient throughout the recovery process.
What are the risks of knee replacement surgery?
Some of the risks associated with knee replacement surgery include the following:
- Infection
- Blood clots in the leg vein or lungs
- Heart attack
- Stroke
- Nerve damage
Additionally, knee replacements can wear down over time. Performing intense physical activity and consistently putting stress on the joint can cause it to last for a shorter amount of time. Once the knee replacement surgery is performed, the recovery process begins. The process involves physical therapy techniques to strengthen the new joint and the surrounding muscles. New York Sports Medicine Institute’s orthopedic in Franklin Lakes, NJ will use a variety of physical therapy techniques to create a recovery plan best suited for the patient. Continue reading below to find out what the recovery process looks like.
What will the recovery process look like?
The recovery process typically takes 12 weeks, depending on the patient. The recovery process begins the first day after surgery. The next day, a physical therapist will assist you in standing up and walking with an assistive device, like a walker, cane, or crutch. A physical therapist will help you practice getting in and out of bed with the help of such devices. In the early stages of recovery, a passive motion machine may be used to move the knee joint slowly to prepare for physical therapy later on. On the second day of recovery, a patient should begin to practice bending and straightening their knee. A patient is usually discharged three days after surgery. However, this varies by person. When the patient is discharged, physical therapy should be done for the following weeks to help speed up recovery. If you have had knee replacement surgery, contact our orthopedic in Franklin Lakes, NJ, for information about the recovery process.
Three weeks into the recovery process
By the third week of recovery, the patient can practice standing and walking for about ten minutes and straightening the knee fully. The patient should also be able to walk without an assistive device. If the patient is struggling with walking without assistance, they can place the cane in hand on the opposite side so they are not as reliant on it to walk.
Midway through recovery
By the 6 to 7-week mark of recovery, the patient should see great improvement in the flexibility and strength of the knee. They should be able to walk on their own and continue physical therapy to strengthen the knee. Many patients with desk jobs can return to work during this point in the recovery process. Some patients with more physically demanding jobs may need 12 weeks to return. Additionally, a patient can return to driving midway through the process and possibly travel. It is important to stay active during this time by walking and practicing the exercises given by a physical therapist. Some of these exercises that help strengthen and improve mobility are:
- Stationary biking
- Hip abductions
- Step-ups
- Toe raises
- Heel raises
- Mini squats
- Leg balances (practicing balancing on one foot)
For more information on exercises to perform during the knee recovery process, contact our orthopedic in Franklin Lakes, NJ.
The end of recovery
By week 12, a patient is towards the end of their recovery process. They should continue practicing the exercises described above and avoid the following exercises until full recovery:
- Running
- Skiing
- Basketball
- Football
At this point, a patient has more mobility and minimizes pain, and can begin low to moderate-impact activities like bicycling. Recovery can be a difficult and lengthy process. At New York Sports Medicine Institute, our orthopedic in Franklin Lakes, NJ is here to help throughout your recovery and create an individualized plan best suited for your goals and lifestyle. To book an appointment, contact us today!
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: What is knee replacement surgery?
A: Knee replacement surgery is when damaged or worn-out parts of the joint are replaced with artificial components. It is typically recommended by an orthopedic in Franklin Lakes NJ for patients with severe knee pain or disability caused by arthritis or injury.
Q2: Who is a good candidate for knee replacement surgery?
A: Good candidates for knee replacement surgery are individuals with significant knee pain and disability that affect their daily activities and do not respond to conservative treatments such as medications, therapeutic exercises, or injections. Most candidates are over 50, but younger patients with severe conditions may also be considered.
Q3: How long does the surgery take?
A: The actual surgical procedure typically takes about 1 to 2 hours. However, the total time in the operating room may be longer due to preoperative preparations and postoperative care.
Q4: What types of knee replacement are there?
A: There are two main types of knee replacement surgery: total knee replacement (TKR), where the entire knee joint is replaced, and partial knee replacement (PKR), where only the damaged part of the knee is replaced.
Q5: What are the risks associated with knee replacement surgery?
A: As with any major surgery, knee replacement surgery carries risks, including infection, blood clots, implant loosening, and nerve damage. However, serious complications are relatively rare, and the procedure has a high success rate.
Q6: How long is the recovery period?
A: Recovery time varies from patient to patient. Generally, most patients can start walking with the help of an assistive device within a day or two after surgery. Full recovery, including regaining strength and mobility, typically takes about 6 to 12 weeks, although some patients may take up to a year to fully recover.
Q7: How long will the artificial knee joint last?
A: The lifespan of an artificial knee joint varies but typically lasts 15 to 20 years. Materials and surgical techniques continue to improve the durability of knee implants.
Q8: What activities can I resume after knee replacement surgery?
A: Most patients can return to low-impact activities such as walking, swimming, and cycling after knee replacement surgery. High-impact activities may be discouraged to prolong the life of the knee implant.
Q9: How should I prepare for knee replacement surgery?
A: Preparation for knee replacement surgery may include preoperative medical evaluations, optimizing your overall health, arranging for help during your recovery at home, and planning for physical therapy. Your orthopedic in Franklin Lakes NJ will provide specific instructions tailored to your situation.