Knee pain is one of the most common problems, especially among older parents, and more often than not, they link the problem to age, and then ignore it. But, it only tends to worsen as time passes by, and eventually, it becomes difficult for them to walk and move around. Acute knee pain and other knee related issues, must not be ignored, and the right care must be taken at the right time, so that a person’s mobility is not hampered and they can bend, walk, move about easily.
Research has it that, the main reason that makes knee pain a common problem encountered by the Asian population, is related to genetic factors. There are other reasons involved as well, like obesity or other health implications.
Overcoming knee pain with updated technology
But now there is a better, and a more advanced form of treatment for various knee related issues – Knee Replacement Surgery. This surgery is mainly performed when there is acute knee pain, Knee osteoarthritis or degenerative joint disease. The reason is that, with age the cartilage surface at the end of the bones of the knees is worn away which inflames the knees and affects the normal functioning of the knee. The injured cartilage, sore tissues and exposed bone cause pain. Also the rubbing of the bones against each other, in the absence of the cartilage, leads to bow-legged deformities, loss of motion, etc.
Here comes the role of Knee replacement surgery which involves removal of the damaged bone of the knee joint and replacement with prosthesis or an artificial joint made of metal alloys, high grade plastics and polymers.
Knee Replacement surgery can-
Knee replacement can be rewarding, as firstly, the acute pain is no longer there, and moreover, the patient is able to move around within 48 hours of the surgery. Although the patient initially has to walk with the help of a walking frame as the surgery has just been performed, after a few weeks of surgery, the frame can be replaced with walking stick. And the patient can walk completely by himself, unsupported after 3 to 6 weeks if his single knee is replaced and after 6 to 8 weeks if both knees are replaced in a single setting.
But the main is the after care of knee replacement:
Antibiotics: Once the replacement surgery is over, most patients remain in the hospital for four to eight days during which they are given fluids and antibiotics so as to prevent infection from occurring. The complete course of antibiotics must be completed, if started. Leaving it in between will do more harm than good.
Physiotherapy: Ongoing physiotherapy that begins from the second day after the surgery, is the most important part of recovery for the first four to five months. It assumes importance, as the patient is able to gain knee bending muscle strength and achieve early mobility. Physiotherapy focuses on low-impact exercises such as bending knee or stretching legs as these exercises help in strengthening the bones and muscles of the knee, and can help in quick healing. Light equipments like crutches are used, so that the patient is able to do simple movements like getting out of bed or take a shower conveniently.
Simple activities: Gradually, the level of physical activity increases. The patient is encouraged to take up other forms of low-impact physical activity in addition to the exercises; swimming, walking and pedaling a stationary bicycle are all good ways towards speed recovery. But care should be taken to avoid falls.
Dental care: The patient must inform his or her dentist about the knee replacement so that extra precautions can be taken against infection resulting from bacteria getting into the bloodstream during dental work.
Diet and weight: A well balanced diet that is high on nutritional levels, and comprises of whole grains, fruits, vegetables, low-fat proteins and more of dietary fiber is considered best for a patient who has just undergone a knee replacement surgery. An optimal weight should be maintained post surgery, so as to avoid complications.
Compression Stockings: These apply pressure to the legs after the surgery and assist in proper flow of blood thereby reducing the patient’s risk of developing blood clots.
Ice Pack: This helps in reducing swelling and in relieving pain. The patient is advised to apply an ice pack to the knee that has undergone a surgery, for 20 minutes once every hour.
Remember, this surgery has just given you a new gift. Treasure it and take care!
