A damaged knee can be a catastrophic blow to your ability to maintain mobility. Where the femur, tibia and patella meet, the body has constructed a complex interweaving of ligament and muscle. A thin membrane surrounds the whole device and delivers a lubricating fluid. Damage to any part of the knee can have severe consequences, which is why knee injuries are the most common joint injury. The path to recovery from an injured knee can be a difficult one.
Surgery
Recovery time can vary depending upon the treatment performed. Knee arthroplasty, typically a full knee replacement, is an invasive surgical procedure that can take months to recover from. Many modern operations involve the less invasive arthroscopy procedure. Using a specialized endoscope, surgical repairs are made with minimal incisions. The type of surgery you underwent will determine your recovery regimen.
Swelling
One of the primary results of open knee surgery is persistent swelling after the surgery. To ward off as much discomfort as possible, use ice packs. Even more important is to keep the knee elevated for several days. A slightly elevated knee, perhaps by a pillow, can help prevent additional blood from flooding into the joint.
Incision
The incision made on your knee will be dressed upon leaving the hospital. Usually dressing can be removed after a day. While showering is acceptable, do not direct water at the incision itself. Make sure to take the full course of antibiotics prescribed by your doctor, no matter how well you feel.
Therapy
Therapy to recover from a knee surgery typically begins immediately afterward. Even in the hospital recovery phase the knee will be suspended by weights and subjected to continuous passive motion. Hospitals have systems in place to keep your knee joint working, even while you remain bedridden. Physical therapy typically begins one week after surgery and is different from therapeutic exercise performed later in the process. Physical therapy will typically involve stretches and incremental increases in weight being borne on the joint. The goal is to support oneself on a cane after three weeks.
Recovery
Even if you can walk unassisted, continue using crutches or a wheelchair for as long as possible. Therapeutic exercise should not begin until 6 to 8 weeks after the surgery.
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