Recovery from knee arthroscopy is much faster than recovery from traditional open knee surgery. Still, it is important to follow your orthopaedic surgeon's instructions carefully after you return home.
Swelling
Keep your leg elevated as much as possible for the first few days after surgery. Apply ice as recommended by your doctor to relieve swelling and pain.
Bearing Weight
Most patients need crutches or other assistance after arthroscopic surgeryfor 1-2 days. Your surgeon will tell you when it is safe to put weight on your foot and leg. If you have any questions about bearing weight, call your surgeon.
Driving
Your doctor will discuss with you when you may drive. This decision is based on a number of factors, including:
• The knee involved
• Whether you drive an automatic or stick shift
• The nature of the procedure
• Your level of pain
• Whether you are using narcotic pain medications
• How well you can control your knee.
Typically, patients are able to drive from 2-3days to 1 week after the procedure with the exception of cruciate ligament reconstruction.
Medications
Your doctor will prescribe pain medication to help relieve discomfort following your surgery
Exercises to Strengthen Your Knee
You should exercise your knee regularly for several weeks after surgery. This will restore motion and strengthen the muscles of your leg and knee.
Physiotherapy exercise will play an important role in how well you recover. A formal physical therapy program may improve your final result.
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