Understanding what a total knee replacement can and cannot do for you is an important factor in deciding whether to have surgery.
Most patients who have undergone a total knee replacement experience a remarkable reduction in knee pain and ability to perform normal daily activities. A period of post-surgical rehabilitation with physiotherapy is needed. It is important to note that a total knee replacement will not be able to allow you to do more than what you could do before you developed arthritis.
The knee implant is an artificial joint. It is prone to wear and tear with use. With moderate use, the knee implant can last for as long as 20 years. Excessive activity or high impact activities can speed up the wear in the joint and cause the implant to loosen and trigger pain in the knee. This is why most orthopaedic surgeons’ advice against participating in high impact activities after a total knee replacement. Low impact sports and activities such as biking, swimming, walking, tai chi is more appropriate.
Recovery after a knee replacement
After knee replacement, you will start physiotherapy on the first day after surgery. This involves exercises to put the knee through a range of motion and walking with a walking aid or a pair of crutches. Over the next few weeks, the physical therapist will take you through an activity program which will include a graduated increment for walking, strengthening exercises and functional training such as walking up and down stairs and other house hold activities.
To make your home safer after surgery, it might be easier if the following improvements can be made:
- Avoid stairs and create a total living area on a single floor. For most patient, moving the bedroom to the ground floor would be sufficient.
- Consider installation of safety bars and handrails in the shower and toilet.
- Remove loose rugs and carpets.
- Have a footstool ready to elevate your leg.
At 6 weeks after surgery, you can generally resume most daily activities such as shopping and light housekeeping. Driving is also possible at that time, if not slightly earlier if you can flex or bend your knees enough to sit in a car.
Once you have recovered, you can look forward to enjoy a variety of low impact activities without problems. Currently, more than 90% of knee replacements are still functioning well at 15 years after surgery. Following the doctor’s advice and instructions after surgery and taking care of your knee and general health are important ways to contribute to the success of your surgery.
Dr Lee is an experienced orthopaedic surgeon who specializes in knee replacement surgery. He routinely performs minimally invasive knee replacement surgery with computer navigation to ensure the best outcome for your knee. He will assess your condition and advise the best form of treatment for your condition.
