Compared with traditional open knee surgery, knee arthroscopy has a very quick recovery time. Nevertheless, it does take some time to recover from any surgery. The most important thing to remember during your recovery is to listen to your orthopedic surgeon and do as he or she says.
The Best Ways To Keep Swelling Down
Your orthopedic surgeon is sure to instruct you to keep your leg elevated during the first few days after surgery. Additionally, you can use ice to keep pain and swelling under control.
What to Do About Your Dressing
You will leave the hospital with a bandaged knee. It is important to keep that bandage on for the first day. After you take it off, it is OK to take a shower, but be sure not to spray water right on your knee. Keep your knee clean and dry until the incisions are healed. Definitely avoid soaking in the bath.
You will go to the orthopedic surgeons office a few days after your surgery for a follow-up. The orthopedic surgeon will tell you about the surgical findings and inform you about your plan of treatment for recovery.
How Soon Will I Be Able to Bear Weight on My Leg?
Click here for more on recovering from knee injuries .
Usually, you can walk without assistance right after surgery. In some instances, your orthopedic surgeon may tell you to use an assistive device. If you are sent home with a cane, walker, or crutches, be sure to use them until your orthopedic surgeon tells you to stop. Follow your orthopedic surgeons instructions, and do your exercises, and you will gain strength bit by bit. Check with your orthopedic surgeon before you drive. This is usually alright after about a week.
Using Exercise to Strengthen Your Knee
Your exercise plan may consist of a list of exercises given to you by your orthopedic surgeon, or he or she may send you to a physical therapist. Whatever plan your orthopedic surgeon devises, be sure to follow it closely for quick, effective results.
Managing Your Prescriptions
After your surgery, you will probably have two prescriptions. One will be for antibiotics to prevent infection. The other will be for pain medications to make your recovery more comfortable. Be sure to follow your orthopedic surgeons instructions closely regarding the use of these drugs.
Complications Are Rare
The complications that arise with arthroscopic knee surgery are rare and easily managed. You will want to watch for blood clots, blood accumulating around your knee, and infection.
Indications of Complication
Be sure to let your orthopedic surgeon know if you experience:
1) A fever that is high & persistent
2) A feeling of chills
3) A feverish feeling or redness around the knee
4) Increasing or persistent pain
5) Swelling in the knee that seems exaggerated
6) Persistent and increasing pain in the calf
About the Author:
Dr. Edelson is a Board Certified Orthopaedic Surgeon specializing in sports medicine. His clinic, Sports Medicine Oregon, focuses on athletes of all ages. Click here to learn more about Dr. Edelson, Vancouver SLAP Tears and Knee Doctors in Portland.
Get all the information and photos:: http://coringa.info/education/speeding-up-your-recovery-after-knee-arthroscopy
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