Total bed rest is not a good idea post-surgery because some movement (even in surrounding joints such as the hip and ankle) is needed to stimulate blood flow and healing. Wearing compression stockings can be another effective method for reducing achy pain and swelling, and preventing blood clot formation. Start wearing them day and night, then after a few weeks, switch to just while you sleep. There are two types of knee replacements: total knee replacements and partial knee replacements. Recovery from a total replacement takes longer — generally three to five days in the hospital and a recovery period lasting from one to three months. [4] X Research source
Compressing the ice against your knee with a bandage or elastic support will also help control the inflammation, but don’t tie it too tight because complete restriction of blood flow could cause more damage to your knee joint and lower leg. [7] X Expert Source Eric Christensen, DPTPhysical Therapist Expert Interview. 29 June 2021. Always wrap ice or frozen gel packs in a thin towel in order to prevent frostbite on your skin. If you don’t have any ice or gel packs, then use a frozen bag of veggies from your freezer.
You should be able to resume most normal activities of daily living (including walking and bending) within 3-6 weeks following knee replacement surgery. Some pain with walking and other knee movements, particularly at night, is common for several weeks after you’ve had knee surgery. If your right knee was replaced, then don’t try to drive a car until you’re fully recovered, which may take a few months. Your orthopedist will clear you when it is safe for you to drive.
Alternatively, you may be given prescription-strength nonsteroidal anti-inflammatories (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen or naproxen, or painkillers such as Tylenol #3. After a few weeks, you may be able to wean yourself to weaker over-the-counter offerings. Be careful not to take any medications on an empty stomach, as they can irritate the lining of your stomach and increase the risk of stomach ulcers. Pain-relieving creams containing capsaicin, menthol and/or salicylate may be of benefit also. Your doctor may also prescribe short-term antibiotics to reduce the risk of infection.
With the permission of your doctor, soak your leg in a warm Epsom salt bath, which can significantly reduce pain and swelling, especially within muscles. [11] X Research source The magnesium in the salt helps the muscles relax. However, avoid soaking the wound in water until it has completely sealed and dried.
Physiotherapy is usually required 2-3x per week for 6-8 weeks to positively impact a knee that’s undergone surgery, although it may be longer. [13] X Expert Source Eric Christensen, DPTPhysical Therapist Expert Interview. 29 June 2021. [14] X Research source It will include a graduated walking program and knee-strengthening exercises. If need be, a physical therapist can stimulate, contract and strengthen your weakened leg muscles with electrotherapy, such as electronic muscle stimulation. For pain control, a physical therapist can use a TENS (transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation) unit on your knee.
CPM exercise machines also help to prevent blood clot formation in the legs. Some physical therapists, occupational therapists and physiotherapists (rehabilitation physicians) have CPM machines in their office, but not all of them.
In most cases, significant pain reduction can start within hours after the first infrared treatment. Pain reduction is often long lasting, weeks or even months. Practitioners most likely to use infrared therapy include some chiropractors, osteopaths, physical therapists and massage therapists.
Based on the principles of traditional Chinese medicine, acupuncture reduces pain and inflammation by releasing a variety of substances including endorphins and serotonin. Acupuncture is practiced by a variety of health professionals including some physicians, chiropractors, naturopaths, physical therapists and massage therapists — whoever you choose should be certified by NCCAOM.
Always drink lots of water immediately following a massage in order to flush out inflammatory by-products and lactic acid from your body. Failure to do so might cause a headache or mild nausea.
Full-body vibrating machines are difficult to find in rehabilitation facilities and likely too expensive to buy for home use, so consider smaller machines that vibrate your feet and/or lower legs. A hand-held vibrating massage device is another option that may work well to stimulate and reduce pain in the muscles around your knee.
