Over the past 25 years, board-certified orthopedic surgeon and sports medicine specialist Robert A. Mileski, MD, employs the latest innovative robotic and state-of-the art techniques for a range of procedures, including total knee replacement surgery to restore your mobility and relieve ongoing pain, at Phoenix Orthopedic Group in Scottsdale, Arizona.
Depending upon a variety of factors, the actual recovery time for knee replacement surgery differs from patient to patient. The following is a basic schedule for the majority of people.
After examining your knee, Dr. Mileski reviews your imaging tests, which may include X-rays, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and/or a computed tomography (CT) scan. Once he confirms a full replacement is in order, our team schedules your total knee arthroplasty (TKA) surgery.
You can make your recovery smoother by:
Dr. Mileski also discusses appropriate presurgery exercises to strengthen your knee and improve your range of motion. These may include:
Our team helps you modify any of these for your particular situation.
Before your surgery, an anesthesiologist either numbs the knee area or employs general anesthesia to put you to sleep. Either way, you’ll feel no pain throughout the 1-2 hour procedure.
During surgery, Dr. Mileski inserts high-grade artificial materials to replace your entire knee:
Afterwards, we move you to the recovery room to monitor your vital signs. You either return home that day or spend the night at the hospital.
Recovery time varies, depending upon a patient’s age, activity level prior to surgery, and overall health. Here are general guidelines.
Prior to leaving the hospital, they check your blood pressure and other vitals, and make sure your pain is manageable. You also need to be able to:
Once you’re cleared, you head home to recover.
Dr. Mileski lets you know what to expect during your initial 48 hours, such as swelling, pain, and/or bruising. It’s important to use your knee as soon as you’re able. Focus on straightening it fully over the first few days.
While at home, you may require pain management, which might include:
We also suggest icing the area and elevating your leg. Inform us about any unexpected issues or pain.
You usually begin physical therapy the day of your surgery, when a physical therapist (PT) shows you simple at-home exercises. It’s crucial to stick to a rehabilitation program to ensure the best possible outcome.
It generally takes around six weeks for your incision to heal completely. During this time, you should avoid tub bathing or swimming. If Dr. Mileski uses waterproof dressings, you may be able to shower in a day or two. If your dressings aren’t waterproof, you’ll need to wait about a week to shower.
After seven weeks or so, depending upon what you and your PT decide, you may start walking more, swimming, and/or exercising on a stationary bike. You may also begin:
Dr. Mileski suggests continuing to avoid high-impact sports or exercises, such as:
Replace these activities with low-impact aerobics, swimming, gentle yoga, or even running in water.
Recovery from knee replacement surgery may take just a few months or longer, depending upon your personal timeline. However long it takes, it enables you to lead a more productive life free from ongoing knee pain.
If you’re ready to resolve your knee pain or discuss another orthopedic issue, simply schedule a consultation online or by phone with Dr. Mileski at Phoenix Orthopedic Group today.
