Total knee replacement in Cumming, GA can be a long process but by the end of the process, you will be able to return to your lifestyle, an active one at that. The most important time period after surgery is the initial 12 weeks. You will need to commit to a plan and push yourself to make your recovery successful.
Week 1
During the first week, discomfort from surgery is expected and rehab will begin the moment you wake up from knee replacement in Cumming, GA. Within 24 hours your physical therapist will have you up and walking around using assistive devices like crutches, walkers, and canes. During this phase, you will also learn techniques for doing simple tasks like getting in and out of bed, moving around, and caring for yourself. Your activity level will continue to increase as you progress with the help of a physical therapist of course.
Weeks 4 to 6
During this period after your knee replacement in Cumming, GA you will begin to notice an improvement. This improvement will only occur if you stick to your exercise and rehab schedule.
By this point, swelling and inflammation may have also gone down. You will now begin to focus on building strength.
Week 7 to 11
You will still be in physical therapy at this stage but your mobility and strength will have increased exceptionally. Your exercises will be modified but will be increased compared to the first couple of weeks. You should also be experiencing less pain and stiffness than after your initial knee replacement in Cumming, GA.
Week 12 And Beyond
Your pain should be significantly improved and frequently finishing up physical therapy. You will still be limited from participating in high-impact activities.
Typically it will take 3 months to return to more normal activities and anywhere from 6 months to a year to have a strong and resilient knee.
Life After Knee Replacement
Knee replacement in Cumming, GA is a long process and should be considered extensively before undergoing surgery.
Surgery will improve your current function but will not allow you to do more than you did prior to your injury or onset of your condition. Your knee will feel different than your natural knee.
You may notice a different sensation in your knee during certain activities like kneeling, using stairs, or rising up from a chair. This will vary depending on the patient. This does not indicate that your knee replacement surgery was unsuccessful. This may just be a side effect as found by studies.
How Long Does a Knee Replacement Last?
Most knee replacements can last from 15 to 20 years, but many of them can last even longer than that.
You will need to stay active and follow any physical therapy regimes as suggested by your doctor. Always avoid high-impact activities until speaking to your doctor. Each person is unique and some may be able to do more than others.
Call Academy Orthopedics to Schedule an Appointment
If you are having knee and joint problems you should seek the advice of a specialist. The specialists at Academy Orthopedics are board certified and experienced to help you achieve your goals. We take pride in treating you like family—not just another number.
Call Academy Orthopedics LLC at 770-271-9857 or visit our contact page to discuss your options today.