Because  arthroscopic knee surgery is far less invasive than traditional knee orthopedic surgery, arthroscopic surgery recovery time is usually much quicker.  Even so, it is very important that you still follow the instructions of your arthroscopic surgeon to ensure that complications do not occur.

Signs of complications can include the following symptoms:

Fever or chills
Unexpected swelling in the knee
Ongoing redness or warmth around your knee
An increase in knee joint pain or pain in your calf muscle.

If you experience any of these symptoms you should call your orthopedic Dr as soon as possible.

Here are some things you should do and expect following your knee orthopedic surgery.

For the first few days following surgery keeping your knee elevated will help to reduce any swelling.  Using ice packs on your knee will also help with swelling and pain.

Generally the dressing that was applied following the knee operation can be removed after a day or so.  When you remove the bandage ensure to keep the area dry and clean.  When showering avoid getting water directly onto the wound.  

Usually within a few days after the knee surgery you will be expected to see your knee surgeon so he can check your progress and instruct you on your knee physiotherapy.

After your knee surgery you should be able to walk unassisted.  However, you may be advised to use crutches or a cane for a short period of time.  You will find that you will slowly be able to put more weight on the affected limb as any pain reduces and the knee becomes stronger.  You can usually drive after about 7 days.

Exercise is very important to regain mobility and strengthen the knee.  You may be directed to use a physiotherapist who can map out an exercise regimen specifically for you.

Your arthroscopic surgeon may recommend a course of antibiotics following the surgery to prevent any infection.  In addition he may also prescribe some medication for knee pain relief.

Although rare, knee arthroscopy does sometimes lead to complications.  These can include infection, an accumulation of blood around the knee and blood clots.  As I mentioned, these are infrequent an are usually minor.  They are easily treated.

Fortunately, with this type of orthopedic knee surgery, the pros far outweigh the cons.  Any complications arenegligible and the benefits obtained in mobility and pain reduction are well worth a few days of discomfort.

Knee Pain Relief: Arthroscopic Knee Surgery & Knee Braces

The arthroscope (one of the surgical tools used in the surgery) is inserted into the knee joint through a small incision that your physician will make.  As a result of being less invasive, this procedure can reduce recovery time and can increase the success rate of the procedure. 

News that Seahawks’ Jones will require another knee surgery.

News that Jones will require another knee surgery, this one arthroscopic, leaves the team with only two proven tackles for the immediate future.

Speeding Up Your Recovery After Knee Arthroscopy

Recovery from knee arthroscopy is fairly quick, especially when compared with recovery from open knee surgery.

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Arthroscopic Surgery Recovery – Points to remember

Keeping your leg elevated as much as possible and applying ice as recommended will help reduce swelling and relieve any pain.

Antibiotics may be prescribed to help reduce the risk of infection after orthopedic knee surgery and also pain medication to help relieve any pain or discomfort.

Your knee will covered by a dressing when you leave hospital.  This can usually be removed 24 hours after the arthroscopy (if in doubt check with your orthopedic dr).  Keep the incisions dry and clean.  Avoid soaking them in water (as in a bath) and spraying water directly on to them.

Usually you will be able to walk unassisted after your arthroscopy.  However your surgeon may recommend using a walker, a cane or crutches for a short period.  Slowly, as any discomfort lessens and your knee regains its strength, you will be able to put more weight on your legs.  After about a week you should be OK to drive.

Exercises to Strengthen Your Knee

It is important to strengthen your knee and the muscles around your knee to ensure your knee regains full movement.  Your orthopedic surgeon will be able to give you more information on knee pain exercises and may recommend you use a physical therapist to help with your exercise regimen.  Exercises should continue for several weeks after surgery.

Generally, you will be expected to visit your orthopedic surgeon a few days after your surgery so your progress can be checked and reviewed.  It is here that you will usually be given your post arthroscopy treatment plan.

Complications are minimal with this type of orthopedic knee surgery.  Potential complications are blood clots, infection and accumulation of blood in the knee.  As I mentioned, these are infrequent and usually minor in nature but, should a complication arise, it is readily treatable.

If you use your common sense and follow any instructions given to you, knee arthroscopy surgery is a very effective treatment for many knee injuries.

Arthroscopic Knee Surgery

Arthroscopic Knee Surgery & The Benefits A Knee Brace Can Provide. Do you want to know what arthroscopic surgery entails? 

Arthroscopy

In a restorative technique a reparative tissue is generated by surgery. There are a number of techniques involved and some can be done through key hole incisions (arthroscopic surgery).

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