Knee Replacement Surgery: Recovery Time and Rehabilitation

Following knee replacement surgery, the recovery time is crucial for maximizing the implant’s effectiveness and ensuring optimal healing.

Self-rehabilitation is essential, and you must regain control of your knee immediately after the operation.

‍Knee replacement surgery, or arthroplasty, is an essential procedure to restore mobility and reduce pain in patients suffering from severe joint destruction. The following is a detailed guide on the different phases of rehabilitation, recommended practices, and tips for a successful recovery.

Knee replacement surgery: Recovery and rehabilitation

In the hours following a knee replacement surgery, recovery is the main priority. Doctors administer painkillers to control pain. Anticoagulants may be prescribed to prevent blot clots. The recovery phase typically begins with early mobilization exercises to stimulate blood circulation and minimize the risk of blood clots. These initial hours are crucial to laying the foundation for a successful recovery.

Early Mobilization

Early mobilization is essential for a quick recovery. Often, on the same day as the surgery, patients are encouraged to start moving under the supervision of the medical team. The use of walking aids, such as canes, is recommended to allow you to take your first steps safely. This initial phase is crucial to gradually restoring joint mobility and muscle strength.

Recovery time for knee replacement surgery

The recovery time for knee replacement surgery varies: self-sufficiency is typically achieved in 3 to 4 months, with the final result generally reached in 6 to 12 months.

Initial Phase

During the first few weeks post op knee replacement, the main goal of rehabilitation is to control inflammation, manage pain, and initiate gentle movements.

Passive mobilization exercises, where the knee is gently moved by a therapist or a motorized device, are started. Simultaneously, active mobilization exercises, where the patient moves their knee themselves, are introduced to maintain range of motion and prevent joint stiffness. Cryotherapy techniques can be incorporated to reduce swelling and pain.

Intermediate Phase

As pain decreases and healing progresses, exercises become more intensive. This phase focuses on strengthening the muscles around the knee and improving endurance.

Patients start to perform weight-bearing exercises, such as partial squats and leg lifts, to strengthen the muscles without overloading the joint. Functional activities, like climbing and descending stairs, are introduced to enhance the motor skills needed for daily activities.

Advanced Phase

During this phase, the goal is to prepare the patient to resume normal daily activities. Exercises focus on fully recovering mobility and strength, as well as improving cardiovascular conditioning.

Patients work on walking unaided, climbing and descending stairs, and may start driving again. Advanced strengthening exercises, like using weight machines and balance devices, are incorporated to ensure complete recovery and prevent future injuries.

Total Knee Replacement Recovery

Total knee replacement recovery involves a structured rehabilitation programme to ensure optimal results. This often includes the use of medications, ice packs, and elevation techniques. Patients typically begin physical therapy within 24 hours of surgery to start gentle mobility exercises. These early efforts are crucial for preventing stiffness and promoting blood flow.

During the first few weeks after total knee replacement, the post op care includes working with patients to increase their range of motion through supervised physical therapy sessions. Activities might include using a continuous passive motion machine, which gently moves the knee, and performing exercises to strengthen the quadriceps and hamstrings. As healing progresses, patients gradually shift from assisted to independent movement, incorporating exercises like straight leg raises and stationary biking.

By the 3rd month, the full knee replacement recovery programme becomes more intensive, emphasizing strength training and functional exercises. Patients may start low-impact aerobics activities such as swimming or cycling. Advanced balance and coordination exercises are introduced to prepare for daily activities and reduce the risk of falls. Regular follow-up appointments with the surgical team ensure that any complications are promptly addressed, with the total knee replacement recovery protocol adjusted as needed.

Proper wound care is essential after total knee replacement. Keeping the wound clean and dry is crucial to preventing infection. Patients should follow their surgeon’s instructions regarding dressing changes and the application of prescribed ointments.

Partial Knee Replacement Recovery

Partial knee replacement recovery is generally quicker and less intensive compared to total knee replacement due to the less invasive nature of the surgery. Postoperative care focuses on pain management and protecting the surgical site. Patients usually begin light physical therapy within a day of surgery, starting with gentle range-of-motion exercises to maintain joint flexibility.

In the first few weeks, the emphasis is on gradually increasing weight-bearing activities. Patients often use crutches or a walker initially, transitioning to a cane and eventually walking unassisted as strength and confidence improve. Specific exercises tailored to partial knee replacement might include leg presses and mini-squats to strengthen the surrounding muscles without placing excessive stress on the joint.

By 6 weeks post-surgery, most patients are able to perform daily activities with minimal discomfort. Physiotherapy continues to focus on building muscle strength and improving joint stability. Exercises such as step-ups and proprioceptive drills help enhance balance and coordination. Patients are also encouraged to engage in low-impact activities like walking and stationary biking to maintain cardiovascular health.

Regular follow-ups with the surgeon and physiotherapist are essential to monitoring your progress and make any necessary adjustments to the rehabilitation plan. By 3 months, most patients have regained significant function and can participate in a wider range of activities, although full recovery may take up to 6 months.

Postoperative Care and Role of Physiotherapy

After knee replacement surgery, postoperative care and physiotherapy play a central role in the rehabilitation process. Physiotherapists use a variety of techniques to mobilize tissues and joints.

Each physiotherapy programme is personalised according to the patient’s specific needs, enabling quicker and more effective recovery. Regular physiotherapy sessions are essential to monitoring your progress and adjusting the exercises based on how fast you are improving.

Rest and Pain Management

It is crucial to adhere to recommended rest periods to allow proper healing of the operated tissues. Pain management is also essential to a timely recovery.

Doctors may prescribe painkillers, but non-medication pain reduction methods, such as applying ice, elevating the leg, and relaxation techniques, are also recommended. Proper pain management enables the patient to participate more actively in rehabilitation for a successful recovery after knee replacement surgery.

Nutrition and Hydration

A balanced diet rich in nutrients plays a key role in the healing process. Proteins, vitamins, and minerals are essential for tissue repair and muscle recovery.

Patients should consume plenty of fruits, vegetables, lean meats, fish, and dairy products. Adequate hydration is also important for maintaining optimal bodily functions and promoting healing. Drinking enough water also helps reduce swelling and flush out toxins from the body.

A micronutrient assessment will be offered by Professor Cavaignac at the start of your care.

Follow-Up with Healthcare Professionals

Regular appointments with the surgeon and physiotherapist are necessary to monitor your progress and adjust the rehabilitation plan if needed. These consultations allow us to quickly detect any potential complications and to take appropriate measures. Patients should immediately report any unusual pain, redness, excessive swelling, or fever to their medical team. Thorough medical follow-up ensures that the patient stays on the right track for recovery and minimizes the risk of long-term complications.

Regular postoperative evaluations are done to monitor your progress and adjust the treatment if necessary. An early follow-up around the 21st day post-operation is possible via video consultation.

Orthense: Digital Medical Follow-Up for Your Rehabilitation

Orthense is a digital healthcare solution deployed by Professor Cavaignac to support his patients before and after surgery. This platform allows for remote follow-up, thus reducing the number of hospital visits. Online interactions, such as questionnaires and specific information, enhance communication between the patient and surgical teams, facilitating more effective and personalised rehabilitation.

The rehabilitation and recovery period after knee replacement surgery is a critical phase that requires commitment and patience. By following the rehabilitation guidelines, maintaining close communication with your care team, and adopting a healthy lifestyle, you can significantly improve your chances of complete recovery and returning to an active and independent life. A proactive and well-supervised approach maximises the benefits of knee replacement surgery and ensures a better postoperative quality of life.

For more information or to schedule an appointment with Professor Cavaignac, you can email him at contact@professeur-cavaignac.com or via the contact form.