Kims Hospitals

A patient who has undergone a Knee Replacement Surgery also needs time to recover. He will be put through a rehabilitation process or be assisted by a physical therapist that involves a plan and a certain schedule. Either of these methods will enable the patient to be back on his foot and resume his activities. The 12 weeks timeline for most of its patients will lead them on a road to recovery. Here’s a simple guide-

BY THE END OF WEEK 1:

Few hours after the surgery a physical therapist will help you with the schedule you will have to follow
The first few days you are asked to walk few steps with the help of an assisting device such as cane, crutches, walker etc. Some hospitals provide the patient with continuous Passive Machine (C.P.M)
The use of this machine prevents your bones from the scarring of the tissue or the stiffness
A physical therapist will also help you set up required facilities in your house.
By the end of week 1 the pain killers and other medications are reduced
On completion of a week, you will be able to bathe and dress all by yourself

WHILE YOU ARE THROUGH WEEK 3:

You will be still following the exercise regimen that includes walking close to 25 ft, climbing up and down the stairs, getting in and out of bed with minimal use of an assisting device.
You will be able to move around without experiencing pain
You will continue to use CPM

GOALS BY WEEK 6:

You will observe that the pain, swelling, inflammation has reduced.
Everyday activities are no longer painful
A considerable improvement in movement. You will be able to bend your knee at 90
You will be able to climb and walk comfortably

BETWEEN THE 7TH WEEK AND THE 11TH WEEK:

You have enough confidence now that you can walk quite a good distance. You will also be able to indulge in activities like driving, housekeeping, shopping etc. Physical Therapist who is observing your improvements will take you through the next set of exercise pattern. The Exercises may include:

Bending of knees; upward and downward movements of knees
Movement of legs sideways while you are in standing position
Balancing of legs on each foot for few seconds as timed by your therapist
Cycling on a stationary bike

BY THE END OF WEEK 11:

Improved movement
Less stiffness and pain
Improved strength in the knees
Getting back to normal activities without any fear

BY WEEK 12:

By the end of the twelfth week with a regular follow up with your Knee Replacement Specialist in Hyderabad and your physical therapist will ensure you to get back to your normal self, completely free and independent. However, one has to avoid activities like aerobics, running, intense cycling, skiing and basket ball.