When is a Knee replacement the best course of action?
There are several factors that could lead to a knee replacement. Regardless of the cause, it is likely the pain and stiffness that has led you to consider a knee a replacement. At this stage, you have likely determined that conservative management of exercises, pain relief and activity modification is no longer sufficient. You are probably tired of being limited with common activities such as walking, getting in and out of a chair or putting on your socks. Ultimately, you want a better quality of life.
What is a knee replacement?
A total Knee replacement, also known as a total knee arthroplasty is when the damaged knee is removed and replaced with an artificial one. Most people who have a total knee replacement are over 65 years old, and they are designed to last for at least 15-20 years.
What does a knee replacement procedure involve?
Knee replacement surgery is usually performed either under general anaesthetic (you are unconscious throughout the procedure) or under spinal or anaesthetic (you are conscious but have no feeling from the waist down). In both cases, you will not feel pain.
In a total knee replacement, both sides of your knee joint are replaced. The procedure can take around 1 – 3 hours.
What happens before the surgery?
Before your surgery, you will attend a specialist clinic to meet your surgeon and other members of the surgical team. They will talk more about the operation and perform several tests to assess your overall health. This is a good chance to ask any questions you may have.
It is important to ensure you are healthy enough to cope with a major operation and the rehabilitation afterwards, as this can be very demanding on your body. To prepare you for the surgery, your physiotherapist may recommend certain exercises for you to carry out, as well as encouraging an increase in physical activity, and advising weight management where appropriate
What are the common symptoms post surgery
Knee pain
Lower limb swelling
Bruising around the knee, thigh and calf
Numbness around the incision
Knee stiffness and mobility issues
Knee Clicking and Clunking
What to do following knee replacement surgery?
Knee replacement surgery is a common operation, and most people recover well.
Patients usually leave the hospital 1 – 3 days after the procedure.
There are ways that you can support your recovery, such as being aware of potential complications:
Infection of the wound - signs of infection include pain, redness at the wound site and a fever
Deep infection of the knee joint
Bleeding into the knee joint
Damage to nearby structures in the knee
Blood clots or deep vein thrombosis (DVT)
Problems with the new knee – it may be stiff or painful when you stand up
Recovery will usually involve the following:
Pain management
Wound management
Strengthening and mobility exercises to get you back to day-to-day activities
Your physiotherapist will work with you to create a personalised rehabilitation plan. They will also talk with you about the most effective strategies for managing your everyday tasks.
How long does a total knee replacement take to recover?
Knee replacement recovery typically takes 6 to 12 weeks to return to normal, light daily activities. A full recovery, with maximum strength, and swelling reduction often takes up to 12 months
What is Victor the Physio’s approach to rehab?
My approach to Knee replacement rehab is simple. Early mobilisations, effective pain management, and progressive strengthening whilst abiding knee precautions. I believe my clients should be guided during this time as rehabilitating alone is challenging and motivation can easily be lost. My goal is to ensure you regain full function and return to activities stronger and with more confidence.
