Recovering from knee surgery does not happen overnight. The timelines and regimens differ from one person to another and depend on several factors. If you are about to undergo surgery, it helps to read and learn as much as you can about what most people experience. Here are a few things you need to know about recovering from knee surgery.
What To Do Before The Surgery
Before the operation, you need to clarify with your surgeon the amount of time you need to recover. Ask them how many days you will need off work and about post-op restrictions or post-surgery physiotherapy you must complete. Your surgeon could tell you how quickly you would need to speak with a physio or what exercises to avoid in the first few weeks.
Speak to them about your personal goals and when you can start engaging in moderate physical activities like running. The stronger your knees leading up to you going under the knife, the better your results. If possible, have a physio come up with a recovery plan before the surgery.
What To Do Immediately After The Surgery
Right after the operation, expect your knee to be swollen and painful. Regular icing, elevation, and use of a compression bandage will help. These things help the edema settle down quickly.
Some post-op recovery features remain the same whether you’ve had a minor arthroscopy, an ACL reconstruction, or a knee replacement. Following knee injuries of any kind, the stabilizing quadriceps switch off, which leads to your thigh muscles atrophying. As such, you could experience feelings of instability and weakness. Your patella will also exhibit poor tracking.
Address these issues through ‘quads setting,’ which activates your quads muscles and gets them back in shape for controlling your knees. First, you need to lie on your back and straighten your operated knee. Then, press the back of your knee to the ground, making sure you tighten your thighs’ front muscles. Hold the position for three to five seconds, relax, and repeat this ten times. Aim for three to four sets of this sequence per day.
The swelling and pain will also cause you to lose your range of movement. Start motion exercises like bending and straightening your knee early on, so you can regain your range as soon as possible. Note, though, that you should stay within your pain limits, or it will be counterproductive. Some surgeons could also require splints or restrictions on your movement for some of the recovery period. Always consult them about exercising.
What Else To Do For Post-Surgery Physiotherapy
It is advisable to see a physio within seven to ten days after your joint surgery. If you are working on swelling management, quads setting, and range exercises, a week or so is a good enough time to wait. People who aren’t doing exercises should see their physio sooner than that.
Sessions will have soft tissue massage, joint mobilization, or other applicable activities. Besides this, you will have to start a Pilates rehab or home exercise program. These rehab activities strengthen your thigh, hip, and core muscles and help you address specific weaknesses brought about by the surgery. When you get stronger, you will get variations in your routine, incorporating conditioning drills like running and arabesques.
Conclusion
Undergoing knee surgery is not easy, but you can make a quick recovery by following a regimen. Before the operation, learn as much as you can about what to expect. Ask your surgeon what to expect in terms of pain and what should be a cause for concern. Finally, get on a physiotherapy program as soon as possible. You’ll undoubtedly see the difference.
For professional post-surgery physiotherapy, contact MJ Physio today. We serve Vancouver, Surrey, and Fleetwood, and our physiotherapists use only surgeon-recommended protocols after each orthopedic procedure. Book an appointment today or get in touch with us for inquiries.
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