Knee Replacement Surgery Recovery: What to Expect

With life expectancy continuing to rise, more older Australians are seeking knee replacements, especially in Sydney. Knee Replacement in Blue Mountains, whether total or partial, involves a long recovery and rehabilitation process.  

As physiotherapists, we encounter many clients who have undergone knee replacement surgery. Although the recovery process can be challenging, it's always amazing to witness how they regain mobility with less pain. If you plan to undergo Knee Replacement in Blue Mountains, feeling anxious about the unknown is natural. In this context, we will discuss what to expect before the surgery and how the rehabilitation process generally occurs 

Before making any decision, it is essential to talk to your doctor or surgeon to address the specific circumstances of your case. These are generalisations that should assist you in asking the right questions.  


What to Expect Before Knee Replacement Surgery?  

Knee replacement surgery involves administering anesthesia to make you either unconscious or unable to feel the procedure while remaining awake. Your doctor will give you options to help you make the best decision based on your circumstances.   

During the surgery, also called knee arthroplasty, the damaged bone and cartilage from your thigh bone, shinbone, and knee bone are replaced with a prosthetic joint made of metal alloys, plastic, and polymers.  




How long does pain remain after having a knee replaced?  

Each person may have a unique experience after undergoing a total knee replacement. It is expected that pain, swelling, and bruising will occur after the surgery. The recovery process can take up to 6 to 12 months, and you may experience mild to severe pain and swelling for as long as 3 to 6 months after the surgery.  

Your physiotherapist will provide you with postoperative exercises that can help reduce swelling and improve your recovery. Additionally, you can elevate your leg on a pillow in bed for several hours each afternoon and use compression stockings to alleviate swelling.  


After knee replacement surgery, you'll have different options for managing pain. While you're in the hospital, you'll likely receive strong medication. However, once you're discharged and back home, you'll be prescribed pain relief and anti-inflammatory medicines such as ibuprofen or paracetamol. Although these medications may not provide the same level of intensity as the ones you received in the hospital, they will still be effective in relieving pain.  


To enhance your chances of recuperating faster without any complications, it is recommended that you get plenty of rest, consume a healthy diet, and drink plenty of fluids. Adhere to the instructions given by your physiotherapist and follow the health advice provided by your doctor, and you will be well on the path to recovery.  

It's important to note that the recovery process may have ups and downs. You should be able to resume your daily activities within 3 to 6 weeks after undergoing knee replacement surgery. However, you should plan to take somewhere between 4 and 16 weeks off from work, depending on the nature of your job.  


Conclusion  

Knee Replacement in Blue Mountains can be a great solution if you are experiencing chronic knee pain and stiffness that affects your day-to-day activities. Western Orthopaedics have the right solution if you are in Sydney and need a qualified and caring practitioner.


Disclaimer: This is a generic Information & post; content about the services can be changed from time to time as per your requirements and contract. The images we use in this context have been taken from "Western Orthopaedics" To get the latest and updated information, contact us today or visit our website.


 

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