If you or a loved one has been advised to have knee replacement surgery (arthroplasty) you are probably very concerned, and that’s normal. But you should take comfort in the fact that today knee replacement surgery is far less intrusive, it’s less painful, and recovery time is faster than it was several years ago. Over 700,000 knee replacements are performed each year in the United States.
Knee replacement surgery is usually recommended only after other treatments such as physical therapy, weight loss, have not succeeded. The procedure involves replacing damaged bone and/or cartilage with artificial materials and it may be accomplished using arthroscopic (rods inserted through small slits) instruments or it may require larger incisions. This difference has a lot to do with recovery time. Many patients stay in the hospital after the surgery for 3-5 days, but more and more it is closer to 1-2 days.
After going home the recovery will depend on several factors including the patient’s strength and ability to handle the accompanying discomfort. Blood clots are possible after surgery and special medicine is usually prescribed to prevent them. If there is any doubt at all
about the patient’s ability to properly take medicines according to directions, assistance is recommended.
Getting around the house for a few weeks is difficult for many recovering patients, and home health care is essential, especially if stairs are present. Simple chores like cooking, getting in and out of the tub, and doing laundry may require help.
If you’re not sure what kind of help you or a loved one will need after knee replacement, pick up the phone and call us! We’re here to help with your questions and concerned, including cost and insurance-related uncertainties.
Call us at 561-210-9096
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