Knee replacement surgery can help patients with knee-related conditions or injuries to walk and perform day-to-day activities more easily. The procedure involves removing and replacing the damaged joint surface with an artificial one. After surgery, patients initially feel discomfort and stiffness in their knee, but this is part of the normal recovery process and improves by progressing through the appropriate course of physical therapy.
Many patients wonder if there are any long-term restrictions after knee replacement surgery. The short answer is yes, but there are only one or two. Let’s learn more about this and where you can go for an outstanding knee replacement surgery in Raleigh, Durham, and Apex NC.
Your Knee After a Joint Replacement Surgery
Most patients after recovering from knee replacement surgery, have improved joint function and relief from the pain and discomfort that came from arthritis they had before. With arthritis gone, and after a recovery process that is dependent on hard work with physical therapy, the goal is to restore the function of the knee to its pre-injury condition, or as close as possible.
After surgery, patients may still have some degree of stiffness or discomfort in the affected area, but typically nothing compared to what they experienced before the procedure. Over the first few weeks and months, as patients get stronger, the goal is to improve the mobility and range of motion limitations that are typically present before a knee replacement procedure.
Your physical therapist, based on instructions from your surgeon, will recommend specific exercises to help you strengthen the joint and improve flexibility during this process.
Long-Term Restrictions After Knee Replacement Surgery
In most cases, long-term restrictions after a knee replacement surgery are few. The most common examples include:
Avoiding High-impact Activities
High-impact activities such as running or jumping can put a lot of stress on the new joint replacement implant, and this pressure can cause it to wear out more quickly.
Your doctor may advise avoiding these activities or limiting them, as the future impact of running long distances for exercise can cause premature wear of the mechanical pieces of a joint replacement. Low-impact activities, however, are fine. Walking, hiking, swimming, riding a bike or elliptical machine, golf, and tennis are all activities that patients typically enjoy after knee replacement surgery.
Managing Your Weight
Being overweight places extra stress on the implant, so it is important to maintain a healthy weight. Talk to your doctor if you need help developing a diet and exercise plan.
Your doctor may give you additional advice depending on your circumstances. For example, your doctor might recommend extra precautions if you have a very active lifestyle.
Caring for Your New Knee
In most cases, patients can return to their normal activities and lifestyle after recovery from knee replacement surgery. To ensure your joint stays healthy, follow any advice given by your doctor and any necessary precautions. You should also practice proper care for your new knee.
In addition, aim to do the following:
- Eat a healthy diet
- Exercise regularly
- Wear supportive shoes
- Limit high-impact activities
- Take breaks and rest when needed
Contact your doctor immediately if you notice any changes in your knee, such as swelling, redness, pain, or discomfort.
By following these tips and your doctor’s care instructions, you can recover successfully and maintain a healthy joint.
Knee Replacement in Raleigh, Durham, & Apex, NC
Do you need a knee replacement in the Triangle Region of North Carolina? Look no further than Emerge Ortho. Dr. Brett Gilbert, a board-certified, fellowship-trained orthopedic surgeon, and his team of compassionate and trained healthcare providers. With his vast experience and advanced fellowship training in hip and knee replacement surgery, Dr. Brett Gilbert is highly adept at providing compassionate care, technical expertise, and personalized attention to patients with hip or knee issues. Dr. Gilbert is also available to provide a valuable second opinion to help you make clearer decisions about your treatment options.
To learn more about outpatient knee or hip surgery, request an appointment with Dr. Gilbert by calling us today at (919) 788-8797 or by filling out our appointment request form online.
We look forward to helping you care for your joints!
