It’s now 8 weeks since my surgery for a partial, lateral knee replacement on the left leg. See here for the previous update at 4 weeks. So, how is the recovery going and how have things changed since the last update?
- Swelling is still an issue, but this is understandable since my activity levels have increased. I am back at my desk for a good chunk of the day, plus I am naturally increasing my movement and exercise intensity. I am still icing and elevating every 2-3 hours to try to keep it under control.
- My pain levels are very low, I’d describe the experience as more like moments of discomfort when I do more than the knee is ready to. I sometimes get a throbbing sensation in the knee but I am considering this just part of the healing process, and imagine the body pumping blood to the area to help (although of course this does add to the swelling!).
- I’ve learned that regaining full range of motion is a long term project. I’d heard that after 12 weeks you can’t improve it further, but my new physical therapist says this is not true. I am much happier with the new therapist, she explains things to me, and is using lots of manipulation and strength building exercises, as well as helping with the bend. My bend arc is now at 110 degrees (115 at a push) with full extension.
- I am massaging on and around the scar now that it is fully healed and all the stitches are gone. I’m using circular, up and down, and side-to-side movements. I am also rolling the skin at the side of the scar. It all took a bit of getting used to, and I don’t like doing it when the knee is more swollen, but I’m hoping it is breaking down the scar tissue as promised.
- In terms of painkillers, I had completely weaned off, but I started taking over the counter ibuprofen again to reduce the swelling so that I can continue to exercise and make progress. I am nervous about taking any medication for too long, but I was persuaded by my healthcare team that is it perfectly fine while I am still healing (but you should check with your own advisers).
- Sleep is much better. I am a side sleeper, and at first I had to use a pillow to support the knee when I slept on the opposite side, but I don’t need that any more. When I sleep on the same side, the knee sometimes feels a bit stiff when I rouse but a few bends and it’s fine again.
- My mobility is much improved. I don’t need crutches any more although I do use a walking stick outside, not because I need it but for confidence. I can climb the stairs but I’m not quite able to descend yet – I’m building up the muscle on a low stepping stool and with shallow squats, so I hope I’ll be able to walk downstairs next time I post an update. Fingers crossed.
I’ll see you all at 12 weeks!