A knee replacement surgery is a major operation that can transform your life after the procedure. It can add years of pain-free activities to your life, allowing you to walk and move more freely. With such an invasive procedure comes a period of recovery. How long it will take one to walk after knee replacement may vary depending on the individual choice of knee surgeon and other factors such as:
Age
Older patients may have weaker muscles, less flexibility, and slower healing times, which can delay recovery. They may need to follow the after-surgery recovery plan strictly. Younger patients may have stronger muscles and a higher pain tolerance, which can help them recover faster than older patients.
Overall Health
Patients in good overall health tend to recover more quickly as they have better blood circulation, which can help reduce swelling and inflammation. This can improve healing times and reduce pain and discomfort.
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Patients with underlying health conditions, such as diabetes, heart disease, or obesity, can take longer to recover after surgery. These conditions can affect the body’s ability to heal, making it more difficult to recover after surgery.
Type of Surgery
There are two types of knee replacement surgery—partial knee replacement and total knee replacement. Partial knee replacement comprises replacing only the damaged part of the knee joint, while total knee replacement entails replacing the entire knee joint.
Patients undergoing a partial knee replacement may recover faster than those undergoing a total knee replacement. Minimally invasive surgery techniques can also speed recovery, reducing scarring and post-operative pain.
Physical Therapy
Patients can begin physical therapy within a few hours after surgery. Physical therapy exercises can improve joint mobility, reduce inflammation, and increase strength. Patients are advised to continue with physical therapy sessions after leaving the hospital. Physical therapy helps patients regain their mobility and strength, reducing the risk of complications and reducing recovery time.
Pain Management
Pain can affect the recovery time after knee replacement surgery. The extent of the pain varies depending on the individual. Have a pain management plan and discuss with your knee surgeon what medicines to take and the amount to take. Apart from medication, other pain-management strategies include breathing exercises, meditation, and physical therapy.
Lifestyle Factors
While patients who are overweight may experience complications and take longer to recover, they may still be eligible for knee surgery. Consult a doctor to see what to watch out for and how to prepare.
Smoking also affects recovery, as it causes a decrease in blood flow and prolongs the healing process. To reduce recovery time, implement lifestyle changes to help you heal more quickly and easily. Consider quitting smoking, eating a more nutritious diet, and exercising more to prepare for physical therapy after surgery.
Visit a Knee Surgeon
By undergoing this procedure, you can alleviate the pain and discomfort caused by conditions such as osteoarthritis or injury. Knee replacement surgery can improve mobility, increase the range of motion, and enhance the overall quality of life. When choosing a surgeon for knee replacement surgery, patients research to confirm they find a qualified and experienced professional.
