Knee surgery is beneficial when joint pain limits movement, even after medical treatments and physical therapy. Conditions and injuries like severe arthritis, torn ligaments, and cartilage damage may also require surgery. Here are some of the factors affecting the time it takes to recover from knee surgery:
Surgery Type
Surgeries like arthroscopy have shorter recovery times than more complex operations, such as total knee replacement. Minor surgeries might only require two to three weeks of physiotherapy, while total knee replacement surgeries may take up to six weeks. Different ligament repair or reconstruction surgeries require different recovery periods, depending on the extent of surgery and the ligaments to be repaired.
Physical Therapy
Physical therapy aids in the strengthening of the knee to improve movement. Failing to attend therapy or only attending some sessions may slow down the recovery process and lead to limited joint flexibility. During physical therapy, patients undergo certain diagnostic exercises that are specific to their case. This enhances recovery and prevents issues like joint immobility or reinjury.
Age and Overall Health
Younger patients with fewer health concerns recover quickly and have lower risks of knee surgery complications. Patients who are older or those who have illnesses like diabetes or heart disease may take longer to recover. This is due to the body’s loss of tissue repair capacity and an increased risk of surgery-related problems such as infection or delayed mobilization.
Weight
Obesity is a factor that may affect the healing process after knee surgery. More body weight translates to more pressure on the knee joint, which may cause pain or slow healing. Overweight patients can also experience discomfort during physical therapy as a result of excess pressure on joints. Good weight management before and after surgery minimizes the stress placed on the knee joint and enables the joint to heal with minimal strain.
Nutrition
A diet rich in vitamins and minerals is effective in repairing tissues, lowering inflammation, and improving the body’s condition. Protein enhances muscle repair and strength, while vitamins C and D help form collagen and promote bone healing. Malnutrition results in delayed wound healing, higher inflammation, weak muscles, and a longer recovery time.
Smoking Status
Smoking is associated with slow healing after surgery because nicotine constricts blood vessels, limiting the supply of oxygen and nutrients to the healing tissues. This prolonged healing increases the likelihood of infection and slows down the recovery of tissues. Surgeons may recommend patients stop smoking prior to knee surgery to increase blood flow and the body’s ability to heal.
Pain Management
Controlling pain helps patients have a successful recovery period after knee surgeries. Pain management makes it easier for patients to get up and move around and prevents complications related to bed rest. Pain management can be done with the help of medications, cold compresses, and alternative methods like acupuncture. With inadequate pain control, patients may reduce their activity and develop muscle stiffness that leads to longer recovery times.
Schedule a Consultation for Knee Surgery
The rate of healing following knee surgery depends on the specifics of the surgery, the patient’s age, and their overall health and well-being. Self-care activities, including attending physical therapy, eating a balanced diet, and managing pain effectively,can help patients achieve favorable recovery outcomes. Schedule a consultation with an orthopedic surgeon today to learn more about your candidacy for knee surgery.