5 Important Things for Having Knee Replacement Surgery
Usually when you feel pain in your knee and it also affects your daily activities, then you take medicines to escape the symptoms of pain and feeling of stiffness in your joint.
But eventually you will notice that when you are under the effect of medicine only when you are feeling no pain and when the effect of medicine goes away, your symptoms reappear like they never went away. So, in order to get the permanent solution for your knee pain you will be advised by your healthcare provider to go for knee replacement surgery.
You should go for the decision of Knee replacement surgery with the expectation of following five things.
You will Stand on Your Feet at the Same Day of Your Knee Replacement Surgery
The approach of standing on your own feet at the day of surgery is known as "early mobilization". It has gained popularity due to many benefits for patients.
The concept behind this approach was to start moving your knee and bear weight even for a short period of time after surgery. It is all done to prevent complications like blood clot formation, joint damage and muscle loss. Early movements can help in improving circulation, reduce the risk of blood clots, and also speed up the recovery process.
During knee replacement surgery, damaged joint components are replaced with artificial implants. After surgery, the main goal is to recover the patient fully. For this early mobilization is a necessary part of the recovery process.
However, it's important to note that the approach of early mobilization cannot be applied for every patient who undergoes knee replacement surgery due to many reasons like the type of surgery, overall health of the patient and the condition of the knee before the surgery. You may start with movements with help like standing or partial weight-bearing, while others might progress more quickly.
You Will Perform Physical Therapy Exercise at Physiotherapy Department and also at Home Daily
Engaging in a physical therapy exercise routine is important for your recovery after surgery and overall well-being. This should involve two things: the therapy sessions at a physiotherapy department and also continuing exercises at home on a daily basis.
At the physiotherapy department, you will work closely with trained professionals who will plan exercises to your specific needs. These sessions provide guidance, help in movements, and continuous checking of your progress. The therapists will ensure that you are performing exercises correctly. Physiotherapists gradually increase intensity of exercise from mild to moderate and then stress activities.
Daily home exercises play an equally important role. These exercises are designed to maintain and build upon the progress achieved during physiotherapy sessions. You should know that consistency is key and you should perform prescribed exercises at home that can also help in overall mobility and quality of your life.
You Should Confirm that Your Home Environment is Safe for you
Ensuring the safety of your home environment is necessary especially during your recovery or while managing a knee replacement surgery. This step helps to prevent accidents and enhances your well-being and also supports your independence.
Start by conducting a thorough assessment of your home. Identify and remove hazards such as loose rugs, cluttered walkways, or slippery surfaces. Install handrails along staircases and in bathrooms to provide stability. Arrange furniture to create clear pathways and remove any obstacles that could interfere with your movement.
Consider lighting as well. Appropriate lightning in hallways, entryways, and commonly used areas reduces the risk of falls. Additionally, placing important items that you use daily within easy reach reduces the need to overexert yourself.
Your New Knee Can Last up to 20-30 Years or Even Lifetime
The longevity of a new knee joint after a knee replacement surgery depends on the factors that can extend its lifespan to 20-30 years or even a lifetime. But it can vary according to each individual because not every patient suffers from the same symptoms even when the disease is the same.
Advancements in medical technology, surgical techniques and implant materials have improved the lifespan of knee replacements tools. Advanced artificial joints are designed to bear the demands of daily activities that can also provide relief from pain and issues related to the movement of the knee.
However, the success of a long-lasting knee replacement also depends on how well you care for your joint after knee replacement surgery. You should follow the guidelines of your surgeon and engage in physical therapy exercises to maintain a healthy lifestyle. Keeping a healthy body weight reduces extra stress on the joint. And staying active can help to improve circulation in the knee joint and muscles.
While many individuals can walk for a long time without any pain, it is important to be aware of important factors that might affect the lifespan of your new knee, such as extra stress, trauma, or other medical conditions. Routine follow-up appointments with your orthopedic surgeon and discussion about your concerns can contribute to the ongoing success of your knee replacement.
You Will be able to Recover fully in 4 to 6 Months after Knee Replacement
The timeline for a full recovery after knee replacement surgery usually takes 4 to 6 months but individual experiences may vary due to various factors. The recovery process is a gradual journey that involves many phases and each phase contributes to the overall recovery of mobility and function.
In the starting weeks after knee replacement surgery, the focus is on wound healing, pain management, and to gain basic mobility. Physical therapy plays an important role during this phase. Physical therapy exercises are performed to reduce swelling in your knee, to improve range of motion, and to allow you for activities of daily living like bathing, walking and standing.
After the second and third months of knee replacement surgery, you will be able to gain remarkable mobility and strength. In this phase, physical therapy sessions become more intensive and targets the muscle for their strengthening and functional movements. Many individuals find that they can engage in light activities of daily living and return to some level of work or routine by this point.
After 4 to 6-months, you will be able to participate in low-impact exercises and activities, such as walking, swimming, or cycling, with very little discomfort. However, it is important to note that full recovery does not mean complete restoration of the knee joint just like before the disease.
The duration of recovery usually depends on your age, overall health, your dedication to physical therapy, and any complications if present.
What are the Types of Knee Replacement Surgery?
There are many types of knee replacement surgery that are performed according to the condition of each patient. Your doctor will discuss your knee condition with you and then will suggest the type of knee replacement surgery you need.
Some of the types of knee replacement surgeries are:
- Total Knee Replacement (TKR)
- Partial Knee Replacement (PKR)
- Minimally Invasive Knee Replacement
- Revision Knee Replacement
- Bilateral Knee Replacement
- Computer-Assisted Knee Replacement
- Gender-Specific Knee Replacement
- High-Flex Knee Replacement
- Unicompartmental Knee Replacement (UKR)
- Custom-Made Knee Replacement
FAQ's of Importance of Knee Replacement Surgery
How Long is a Knee Replacement Surgery?
Knee replacement surgery typically lasts 1 to 2 hours but it can vary according to the complexity of the individual patient.
How Long Does Knee Replacement Surgery Last?
The effects of knee replacement surgery can last up to 20-30 years. It can last for a lifetime for some patients who are older or have no complications after surgery.
What is the Best Knee Recovery?
The best knee recovery involves regular physical therapy exercises, gradual increase in the intensity of activity, careful wound care, pain management, and follow-up with healthcare professionals.
