You will notice a few differences between your old knee and your new knee. Your new knee may feel a little numb and stiff. The numbness will be around the incisions. The stiffness will probably be greater if you do a lot of bending. You may also notice that your new knee doesnt move quite as freely as your old knee. Still, you are sure to find it an improvement.
You may also notice that you are having some trouble kneeling. Dont worry about it, though. It does not hurt your new knee to kneel. You may also hear clicking sometimes when you are bending and walking. This is just the metal parts moving against the plastic. It will become less with time. Most patients adjust to it quite nicely. It is surely less of a problem than the pain and restriction of activities experienced with a diseased natural knee.
If your were active before your surgery, you can be active again after your surgery. You will be able to straighten and bend your new knee well enough to perform common activities such as stair climbing and using your car.
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Metal detectors may sound when you try to enter federal buildings and the airport. Be sure to let the security guards know about your new knee so there wont be any misunderstandings.
Here are some steps to follow after your surgery:
Take great care not to fall or become injured. If you hurt yourself after your knee surgery, you will probably need more surgery.
Consult with your orthopedist about any problems you might experience. As an MD and an orthopedist, he or she will be able to assist you in both surgical and non-surgical procedures. Additionally, the specialized training an orthopedist receives regarding the components of the musculoskeletal system makes an orthopedist the ideal person to see regarding problems with bones, tendons, muscles, nerves, joints, and ligaments.
Anytime you have dental work done, be sure to inform your dentist about your knee replacement. You will need to take preventative antibiotics to avoid infection. This will be a lifelong necessity.
Participate in light exercise regularly from now on. This will keep your new knee strong and flexible.
See your orthopedic surgeon annually for an examination and x-ray.
Dr. Tarlow is a Board Certified Orthopaedic Surgeon with over 20 years specializing in knee surgery. He opened his own clinic, Advanced Knee Care, with a focus on specialty patient care. Click here to learn more about Dr. Tarlow, orthopaedics and ACL reconstruction.