dKnee replacement recovery time can vary depending on the individual and type of surgery carried out. It is important to follow the advice the hospitals advice after the operation is conducted.
After the surgery
In surgical ward you will be given painkillers at the safe rate. Also you might be given oxygen through the mask or tube and also blood transfusion if there was a loss of blood during the surgery.
To protect the knee wound there would be a large dressing to protect it. And also the attached siphon to wound so that at operation site there is no collecting of blood. Your wound dressing will be done regularly until it’s healed.
How soon will I be up and about?
The staff will help you to get up and walk. If you would have minimally invasive surgery you may be able to walk the same day as your operation. Generally you’ll be helped to stand within 24 hours after your operation. Walking with crutches is encouraged. Most people are able to walk after about a week but can vary depending on individual.
During the stay in the hospital a physiotherapist will show you exercises to help strengthen your knee. It’s normal to experience initial discomfort while walking and exercising and your legs and feet may be swollen too. May be you will be advised for passive motion machine to restore the movement in your knee. It also will help to decrease the swelling by keeping your leg raised and helps in blood circulation.
Going home
Depending on your progress and type of knee replacement you will be kept in the hospital for three to five days. Patients who have half knee replacement generally have a shorter hospital stay.
When will I feel normal?
You will resume normal activity six week after surgery. However it can take up to three months for proper pain and swelling to settle down. You knee will continue to recover up to two years after the operation. During this period of time scar tissue will heal and also the muscles will restore by exercise.
Look after knee
- Continue taking prescribed medicines and painkillers to help manage pain and swelling.
- Exercise to prevent stiffness and do not force it.
- Do not sit with crossed leg
- Avoid twisting at your knee
- Do not kneel until the surgeon asks you to
