Recovery from knee replacement

Knee replacement also known as knee arthroplasty is a surgical procedure to replace the surfaces of the knee joint to relieve the pain and disability of osteoarthritis. It may be performed for other knee diseases such as psoriatic arthritis or rheumatoid arthritis. This surgery could be more complicated and carry higher risk if performed on patients with severe deformity. The causes for pain in the knee include meniscus tears, ligament tears, and cartilage defects.
Knee replacement surgery can be performed either partially or on a whole. It involves post operative pain and includes vigorous physical rehabilitation.
Patients are usually discharged 3 to 5 days after the surgery. It is important that discharged patients perform regular activities such as getting to the bathroom and preparing food. Most patients take their first steps after surgery with the help of a walker. Patients with strong upper body and good balance may choose to use crutches. Switching to a cane depends on two factors i.e. first, restrictions from your surgeon, second your ability to regain strength.

Knee recovery is a process which happens step by step depending on the strength and will power of an individual. All the steps from walking, navigating stairs, driving and finally returning to work happens over a period of time. Your surgeon plays a very important role as he/she is the one who gives the entire rehabilitation program and guides you in every procedure. In order to achieve a speedy recovery, you need to follow each and every instruction provided.