Managing Knee Injuries: Rehabilitation After Surgery and Ongoing Pain - Rehabilitation

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Managing knee injuries, especially after surgical interventions, can be a complex and challenging process. Your husband's situation, involving a work-related knee injury that resulted in partial tears of the cruciate ligament and meniscus, followed by arthroscopic surgery, is not uncommon. It’s understandable that you are seeking guidance on how to manage his ongoing symptoms, including limited range of motion, swelling, and discomfort.


Understanding Post-Surgical Symptoms
After knee surgery, it is typical for patients to experience a range of symptoms, including pain, swelling, and stiffness. These symptoms can be exacerbated by factors such as the nature of the injury, the surgical procedure performed, and the individual's overall health and activity level. In your husband's case, the combination of ligament and meniscal injuries can lead to significant joint instability and pain, which may hinder his ability to bend the knee fully.

1. Pain and Swelling: Post-operative pain is a common experience, particularly in the first few weeks following surgery. Swelling can occur due to inflammation and the body’s healing response. It is essential to manage this swelling through rest, ice application, compression, and elevation (often referred to as the RICE method). If swelling persists, it may indicate that the joint is not healing as expected or that there is ongoing irritation.

2. Limited Range of Motion: The inability to bend the knee fully can be frustrating. This limitation may be due to pain, swelling, or scar tissue formation. It is crucial to engage in a structured rehabilitation program that includes gentle range-of-motion exercises. Physical therapy can be beneficial in gradually improving flexibility and strength.
3. Nerve Sensitivity: The sensations of numbness or tingling (often described as "acidic" feelings) can arise from nerve irritation or damage during the surgical procedure. This symptom may improve over time as the nerves heal, but it can also be a sign of ongoing issues that need to be addressed.


Rehabilitation Strategies
Given your husband's ongoing symptoms, here are some strategies that may help facilitate his recovery:
- Physical Therapy: Engaging with a physical therapist who specializes in post-surgical rehabilitation can provide personalized exercises aimed at improving range of motion and strengthening the muscles around the knee. They can also employ modalities such as ultrasound or electrical stimulation to help reduce pain and swelling.

- Gradual Progression: It’s important to gradually increase activity levels. If your husband’s job requires prolonged standing, he may need to take frequent breaks to rest the knee. Using supportive footwear and possibly a knee brace during work can help provide stability and reduce discomfort.

- Pain Management: Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as NSAIDs (e.g., ibuprofen), can help manage pain and reduce inflammation. However, it’s essential to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any medication regimen.

- Home Exercises: Gentle stretching and strengthening exercises can be performed at home. Focus on quadriceps and hamstring strengthening, as well as calf raises and straight leg raises, to support the knee joint.

- Monitoring Symptoms: Keep track of any changes in symptoms, including pain levels, swelling, and range of motion. If symptoms worsen or do not improve with conservative management, it may be necessary to revisit the orthopedic surgeon for further evaluation.


When to Seek Further Help
If your husband continues to experience significant pain, swelling, or limited range of motion despite following a rehabilitation program, it may be necessary to consult with his orthopedic surgeon. They may recommend imaging studies, such as an MRI, to assess for any complications, such as scar tissue formation or additional injuries that may not have been addressed during the initial surgery.

In conclusion, managing knee injuries post-surgery requires a comprehensive approach that includes physical therapy, pain management, and monitoring of symptoms. With time and appropriate rehabilitation, many patients can regain function and return to their daily activities. Encourage your husband to be patient with the recovery process, as healing can take time, especially with complex knee injuries.