Managing Swelling and Pain After Knee Replacement Surgery

Knee redness and swelling?

Hello, Director Su! The elderly lady had a knee arthroplasty two months ago, and her knee is still red and swollen.
Can she apply ice to the swollen area around the artificial joint? Will this affect her walking in the future? Is rehabilitation possible? Thank you!

Qi Kai, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2007/07/27

Dr. Su Hongci reply Rehabilitation

Degenerative arthritis is currently the most common reason for performing total joint replacement surgery.
Knee osteoarthritis is a slowly progressive joint disease associated with aging, joint injuries, genetics, individual constitution, obesity, and overuse, typically occurring in the medial compartment of the knee joint.
The primary goal of total knee arthroplasty is to correct the deformed joint, alleviate pain, and restore mobility.
Therefore, postoperative rehabilitation is a crucial component.
It is unfortunate that many patients miss rehabilitation opportunities due to postoperative pain.
After surgery, the physician or physical therapist will instruct patients on how to strengthen the muscles around the knee joint and use assistive devices for walking or navigating stairs, enabling them to regain their daily functional abilities as soon as possible.
Additionally, utilizing machines for passive range of motion exercises can help the knee joint achieve over 90 degrees of flexion before discharge.
Coupled with exercises for knee flexion, extension, leg raises, and muscle strengthening, this can enhance joint mobility and blood circulation.
Generally, patients should avoid putting weight on the affected limb for six weeks post-surgery, and after three months, the use of a cane is no longer necessary.
Six months post-surgery, patients can swim, play golf, and engage in other low-impact activities, but should avoid jumping, squatting, running, and high-impact sports (such as tennis and basketball).
If there are any rehabilitation needs, patients can seek assistance at the outpatient rehabilitation department, where physicians and therapists can provide support.
Wishing you health and happiness!

Reply Date: 2007/07/27

More Info

After knee replacement surgery, managing swelling and pain is crucial for recovery. It's common for patients to experience some degree of swelling and redness around the knee joint for weeks or even months following the procedure. This can be attributed to the body's natural healing response, as well as the trauma associated with the surgery itself.

1. Ice Application: Yes, applying ice to the swollen area is generally recommended. Ice can help reduce inflammation and numb the area, providing relief from pain. It’s advisable to use a cloth or towel to wrap the ice pack to prevent direct contact with the skin, which can cause frostbite. Ice should be applied for about 15-20 minutes at a time, several times a day, especially after physical therapy sessions or any activity that may exacerbate swelling.

2. Impact on Mobility: While swelling and redness can be concerning, they do not necessarily indicate a long-term problem. However, persistent swelling can affect mobility and the ability to walk comfortably. It is essential to monitor the swelling; if it worsens or is accompanied by severe pain, fever, or increased warmth, it could indicate an infection or other complications that require medical attention.

3. Physical Rehabilitation: Engaging in physical therapy is crucial for recovery after knee replacement surgery. Rehabilitation exercises are designed to improve strength, flexibility, and range of motion in the knee. However, it’s important to balance activity with rest. If the knee is too swollen or painful, it might be necessary to modify the rehabilitation program temporarily. Gentle exercises, such as ankle pumps and straight leg raises, can be beneficial without putting too much strain on the knee.

4. Long-term Considerations: In the long run, while some swelling is normal, it should gradually decrease as healing progresses. If swelling persists beyond the expected recovery period, it may be necessary to consult with a healthcare provider. They may recommend additional interventions, such as compression garments or elevation techniques, to help manage swelling.

5. Monitoring Progress: Regular follow-ups with the orthopedic surgeon or physical therapist are essential to monitor the recovery process. They can assess the knee's condition, adjust rehabilitation exercises, and provide guidance on managing swelling and pain effectively.

In summary, applying ice to the swollen area is beneficial, and while some swelling is normal, it should not significantly hinder mobility in the long term. Engaging in physical rehabilitation is essential, and adjustments may be necessary based on the knee's condition. Always consult with healthcare professionals if there are concerns about persistent swelling or pain, as they can provide tailored advice and interventions to support recovery.

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