Knee replacement surgery is a common procedure used to treat individuals with severe knee pain and limited mobility. The surgery involves removing damaged or diseased parts of the knee joint and replacing them with artificial components. In this blog post, we will explore what knee replacement surgery entails, the recovery process, and what to expect after the procedure.
What is Knee Replacement Surgery? Knee replacement surgery, also known as knee arthroplasty, is a surgical procedure that involves replacing the damaged parts of the knee joint with artificial components made of metal and plastic. The procedure is typically recommended for individuals with severe knee pain and limited mobility due to arthritis or other degenerative conditions. The surgery is typically performed under general anesthesia and can be done as an outpatient procedure, meaning the patient can go home the same day.
What is the Recovery Process? The recovery process for knee replacement surgery can vary depending on the patient’s age, overall health, and the extent of the surgery. In general, patients can expect to spend several days in the hospital and use crutches or a walker for support. Physical therapy is a critical component of the recovery process and typically starts within a few days of the surgery. Patients will work with a physical therapist to regain strength and mobility in the knee and may need to attend several months of rehabilitation sessions. Most patients can resume low-impact activities after a few months but may need to wait up to a year before returning to high-impact activities.
What to Expect After Knee Replacement Surgery ?After knee replacement surgery, patients can expect to experience some pain and swelling in the knee. Pain medication and ice packs can help alleviate discomfort. Patients should also follow their doctor’s instructions for postoperative care, which may include exercises to improve range of motion and promote healing. It is essential to avoid putting too much weight on the knee and engage in any high-impact activities until the knee has fully healed.
Knee replacement surgery is a common procedure for individuals with severe knee pain and limited mobility. While the recovery process can be lengthy and require dedication to physical therapy, most patients experience significant improvements in knee function and mobility. If you are experiencing knee pain or have been diagnosed with a degenerative condition, speak with your doctor to determine if knee replacement surgery is right for you.