After knee replacement

[GARYG]

I had a total knee replacement 9 weeks ago ( my first one ). Today I have some swelling in the leg and foot below the knee and swelling in the knee. Two weeks after surgery knee swelling was 46 cm circumference and today is 44cm circumference . I have full range of motion and walk without any aids . However, can not walk up stairs leading with bad leg but ,in therapy, have been able to go up a2-4 inch step . Knee muscles still seem tight and when trying steps they seem to rub together causing sharp pain .

Doctor thinks there maybe some scar tissue in knee .

This being my first knee replacement, does this recovery seem normal ? Also have to have the opposite knee replaced and would like to do it in November .

Interested in any comments .

 

[Josephine]

Well, have to say, it's a tad early to be talking about scar tissue!! That kind of thing doesn't usually manifest until much later - 6 months at least, in my experience. What it is more likely to be is just a collection of fluid - IOW, simple swelling.

The remedy is fairly simple; elevation, ice packs and exercise in that order.

1. Never sit with your leg down, always keep it up, up, up. The higher the better. Keep it elevated even when in bed.

2. Use ice packs as much as possible. Get yourself several - many - gel packs and keep them in the freezer. That way you have a plentiful supply.

3. Do the exercise you have been give by the physios (PT) and don't stint. Even when just sitting, do regular straight leg raises and flexing exercises but not to excess.


Hope this is helpful. Do let us know how you get on.

 

[mark]

Josephine my surgeon has put me on the waiting list for a partical knee replacement
any information i need to know about knee replacement

 

[Josephine]

Oh gosh, Mark! There's so much information in among these threads here, why don't you take a browse around and see what other people have had to say.

Other than that, the unicompartmental is the most trouble-free form of replacement and involves a fairly small incision that doesn't interfere with the ligaments very much so you should find yourself up and running(!) in no time. My sister-in-law had one done a few weeks ago and is almost back to normal already.

Physiotherapy is probably the most important part of the recovery/rehabilitation so make sure you follow the instructions to the letter.

Do let us know how you get on or if there's anything else I can help you with.

 

[mark]

Oh gosh, Mark! There's so much information in among these threads here, why don't you take a browse around and see what other people have had to say.

Other than that, the unicompartmental is the most trouble-free form of replacement and involves a fairly small incision that doesn't interfere with the ligaments very much so you should find yourself up and running(!) in no time. My sister-in-law had one done a few weeks ago and is almost back to normal already.

Physiotherapy is probably the most important part of the recovery/rehabilitation so make sure you follow the instructions to the letter.

josephine i am ahving it on january 29