Knee replacement surgery, also known as knee arthroplasty, is a common procedure performed to alleviate pain and restore function in severely damaged knee joints, says Dr. Atul Shrivastava. While the surgery can significantly improve quality of life, many people wonder if life can ever be normal again post-surgery. Let’s delve into this topic to understand what to expect after a knee replacement.
- Recovery Period: The initial recovery period after knee replacement surgery can vary from person to person. It typically involves a hospital stay of a few days followed by weeks or months of rehabilitation. During this time, physical therapy plays a crucial role in restoring strength, flexibility, and mobility in the knee joint.
- Return to Normal Activities: Most people can expect to return to normal activities, such as walking, driving, and light household chores, within a few weeks to a few months after surgery. However, high-impact activities like running and jumping may not be recommended to avoid excessive stress on the new joint.
- Pain and Discomfort: While pain and discomfort are common in the initial stages of recovery, they gradually improve as the knee heals. According to the best knee replacement doctor in Kolkata, pain management techniques, such as medications and physical therapy, can help alleviate these symptoms.
- Mobility and Flexibility: Knee replacement surgery can significantly improve mobility and flexibility in the affected knee joint. Many people find that they can resume activities like walking, climbing stairs, and even low-impact exercises without experiencing the same level of pain they had before surgery.
- Long-Term Outlook: For most people, life can be relatively normal after knee replacement surgery. The key is to follow instructions given by the best knee replacement surgeon in Kolkata regarding post-operative care, including regular physical therapy and exercise. With proper care, many people enjoy a good quality of life and are able to engage in activities they enjoy.
In conclusion, while knee replacement surgery is a major procedure that requires time and effort to recover from, it can significantly improve quality of life for those suffering from severe knee pain and mobility issues. With proper care and rehabilitation, many people find that life can indeed be normal, or even better, after knee replacement surgery.