Knee pain is one of the most common reasons people visit their doctor. It can be caused by a wide variety of conditions, ranging from arthritis to acute injury. Soreness and swelling can impede activities such as walking, climbing stairs, bending down, or even getting in and out of a chair.
If you have persistent knee pain that interferes with your daily activities, it may be time to consider a total knee replacement Clearwater. Here’s what to know and how Full Circle Orthopedics in Clearwater, FL can help you get your life back.
Total Knee Replacement Clearwater Overview
Total knee replacement Clearwater is a surgical procedure to relieve pain and restore function in severely damaged knees. The surgery involves removing the damaged cartilage and bone from the joint surfaces of the thigh bone, shinbone, and kneecap, and then shaping these surfaces to fit the new joint, which is usually made of sterile, implant-grade metal and plastic. This can help improve mobility, reduce inflammation, and decrease severe pain.
Total knee replacement is usually recommended for people who have severe pain and disability from arthritis or other diseases or injuries that have damaged the knee joint that treatments like injections or physical therapy haven’t relieved. It may also be an option for people who have had previous partial knee replacement surgery that did not relieve their pain or improve function.
Knee Replacement Benefits & Risks
There are many potential benefits of total knee replacement surgery for people who need it, including restoration of mobility and function, pain relief, and improved quality of life. Knee replacement can help patients reduce their need for medication and mobility equipment, making getting around and participating in activities easier.
As with any type of major surgery, there are risks associated with total knee replacement Clearwater, including infection, blood clots, nerve damage, joint dislocation, and implant failure. These risks are rare and are mitigated by the skill and experience of your surgeon and the hospital where your procedure is performed.
Preparing for Total Knee Replacement Clearwater
Knee replacement surgery is a major operation, and there are some pre-surgery appointments and tests that need to be completed to help the surgeon determine if a total knee replacement Clearwater is the best option for you and to make sure the procedure will be safe and effective for you.
Some of these tests include but may not be limited to a physical exam by the surgeon, blood tests, diagnostic imaging, psychological assessment, and a meeting with the anesthesiologist.
Once all of the pre-surgery appointments and tests have been completed, the surgeon will provide the patient with specific instructions on what to do in preparation for surgery. You may need to stop taking certain medications or supplements prior to surgery, like blood thinners or non-steroid anti-inflammatory pain medication.
You’ll also need to refrain from eating or drinking anything after midnight on the night before surgery and arrange to have someone to drive you home from the hospital after surgery. Your surgeon may also provide you with instructions or special soap to wash with before your procedure.
Surgery, Anesthesia, & Pain Management
Total knee replacement surgery is usually performed under general anesthesia, which means you will be completely asleep during the surgery. Your surgeon may also use regional anesthesia, which numbs your leg from the waist down. Your medical team will assist you after the surgery until your anesthesia wears off and you are able to resume normal activities.
Pain management after total knee replacement Clearwater is also important for a successful recovery. You will likely have some pain and swelling in your leg for several weeks after surgery, and pain medication will be prescribed to help you manage this discomfort. You may also need to apply ice to your knee and elevate your leg to reduce swelling. Be sure to follow your physician’s instructions as you recover to minimize the risk of developing complications.
Knee Replacement Recovery & Physical Therapy
After you have surgery, your knee will be wrapped in a dressing and you will be given a compression stocking to wear. You will also have a small drain in your knee that helps remove any excess blood or fluid, which is typically removed the day after surgery. Most people stay in the hospital for three to five days, after which some patients are transferred to a rehab facility.
During your recovery, a physical therapist will teach you exercises to do to regain motion in your knee and strengthen your leg muscles. You may start physical therapy the day after surgery or when you leave the hospital.
There are several things patients can do to help maintain joint function after total knee replacement Clearwater. These include remaining active, avoiding high-impact activities, maintaining a healthy weight, and managing any underlying medical conditions such as diabetes or arthritis.
Help with Total Knee Replacement Clearwater
If you have persistent knee pain, swelling, or stiffness, Full Circle Orthopedics can help. Call today to schedule an appointment to see if a total knee replacement Clearwater is right for you by dialing 727-513-7277.
Recovery
These are general guidelines and represent average experiences for people who are patients of The Florida Knee and Orthopedic Centers. Keep in mind that healing and recovery times will vary with each person.
After joint replacement singles tennis, jogging and heavy weight lifting are not generally recommended activities.
| Activity | After Surgery |
| Hours in Hospital | Twenty-Four |
| Physical Therapy | None |
| Weeks with Walker/Cane | Two Weeks |
| Weeks Until Driving | One to Three |
| Weeks Until Dancing | Four to Six |
| Golfing/Bowling/Biking/etc. | Six Weeks |
| Double Tennis | Six Weeks |
| Jogging | Please Don’t |
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