Knee arthroplasty is a common medical procedure used to treat severe knee damage. Following arthroplasty, you must participate in a physical therapy program. Part of your physical therapy program is aimed at promoting movement of your knee. Aside from helping to regain range of motion in your knee, it helps to prevent stiffness in the joint and aids in the healing process.
Knee Arthroplasty
Knee arthroplasty, or knee replacement, is a surgical procedure in which parts of the bones that make up your knee are cut off, removed and replaced with a prosthesis. There are tow types of knee replacements: total and partial. A total knee replacement replaces the entire knee joint, where as a partial replacement involves replacing either the inner or outer compartment of the knee.
Knee replacement is usually the last treatment option to repair a damaged knee when more conservative options have failed. Generally, it is used to treat chronic arthritis, which has caused severe pain and immobility in your knee.
Rehab
Rehabilitation is a vital part of the recovery process following knee arthrosplasty. Your rehab will consist of a physical therapy program that will gradually become more strenuous. The goal of physical therapy is to restore strength and range of motion in your knee. It will begin with stretching exercises and, when you are physically capable, to weight-bearing exercises. These exercises will focus on the knee as well as your quadriceps and hamstrings, the muscles responsible for bending and extending your knee. A proper rehabilitation program should eventually lead to a full recovery and allow you to return to normal activities.
Knee Stiffness
One of the most common complications following knee arthroplasty is joint stiffness in your knee. Joint stiffness cannot only make it difficult to move your knee, it can also cause damage to your nerves and blood vessels, and lead to blood clots.
To prevent stiffness from developing, begin to move your knee as soon as possible, usually within 24 hours after surgery. You should flex and extend your knee as much as possible. Make sure not to place a pillow under your knee as this can lead to stiffness. Complete all your daily range of motion exercises prescribed by your therapist to keep your knee flexible.
Prognosis
Every patient heals at a different rate. Factors such as age, health, and the type of knee problem that was treated all factor into recovery time. You should be able to return to normal daily activities, such as shopping or housekeeping, within three to six weeks. Most patients experience pain relief, improved mobility and better quality of life following knee arthroplasty.
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