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Tuesday, September 1, 2009

Tips For Fast Recovery After Knee Arthroscopy

By Dr. Richard Edelson

Recovery from knee arthroscopy is fairly quick, especially when compared with recovery from open knee surgery. Still, it is important to follow all of your orthopedic surgeons instructions for the fastest recovery possible.

Prevent Pain & Swelling

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.

How to Manage Your Bandage

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.

Strengthening Your Knee By Following Your Exercise Plan

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.

Remember Your Medications

Prevention of infection and pain management are important components of your recovery. You will probably have a prescription for antibiotics and a prescription for pain medications. Be sure to follow the directions your orthopedic surgeon gives you to avoid infection and recover with the least amount of pain.

Complications Are Rare

It is unusual to have complications with arthroscopic knee surgery; however, when they do occur, they are usually not major and are easily treated. Most common complications are blood clots, infection, and blood accumulating in the knee.

Here Some Signs To Look Out For

Contact your orthopedic surgeon ASAP if you experience:

1) A high, persistent fever

2) 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

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