Post-Surgery Recovery: Addressing Mobility and Swelling Issues After Ligament Surgery - Orthopedics

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Post-surgery recovery, especially after ligament surgery, can be a complex process that involves addressing mobility issues, swelling, and overall rehabilitation. Based on your questions, let's break down the concerns and provide some insights into each aspect.

1. Mobility and Muscle Strength: The fact that you can bend your knee to 90 degrees while sitting in a chair without using your hands, but need assistance when sitting on the bed, suggests that there may be some differences in your muscle strength and stability depending on your position. This could be attributed to several factors, including muscle weakness, pain, or even the mechanics of how you are sitting. After surgery, it is common for patients to experience muscle weakness in the affected limb due to disuse and the surgical procedure itself. Engaging in physical therapy can help strengthen the muscles around the knee and improve your ability to perform movements without assistance.
2. Extension and Swelling: The inability to fully extend your leg can indeed be influenced by swelling. Swelling in the knee joint, lower leg, and ankle can create a feeling of tightness and restrict your range of motion. While you mentioned that you can apply pressure downwards on your knee, the presence of swelling can still impede your ability to fully extend your leg. It’s important to continue with your rehabilitation exercises as prescribed by your physical therapist, which may include stretching and strengthening exercises to help regain full range of motion.
3. Swelling Management: Swelling is a common issue after knee surgery and can take time to resolve. The fact that you have noticed some improvement in swelling after two months is a positive sign, but it is understandable to want quicker results. The timeline for swelling to subside can vary significantly from person to person, depending on factors such as the extent of the surgery, individual healing rates, and adherence to post-operative care protocols. Generally, it can take several months for swelling to fully resolve, and in some cases, it may take up to six months or longer for the affected limb to return to baseline conditions.
To manage swelling effectively, continue using ice packs as needed, elevate your leg when resting, and engage in gentle movements as tolerated. Compression garments may also be beneficial in reducing swelling. If you find that the swelling persists or worsens, it is advisable to consult your healthcare provider to rule out any complications such as infection or deep vein thrombosis (DVT).

In summary, your recovery journey after ligament surgery will require patience and consistent effort. Engaging in physical therapy, managing swelling through proper techniques, and gradually increasing your mobility will be key components of your rehabilitation. Always communicate with your healthcare team about your progress and any concerns you may have, as they can provide tailored advice and adjustments to your recovery plan.