Total knee replacement surgery involves the complete removal of a previously damaged knee joint and replacement with an artificial alternative. Following the operation, patients begin to walk after just 3 weeks and return to normal life within a few months.
Total knee replacement surgery involves the complete removal of a previously damaged knee joint and replacement with an artificial alternative. Following the operation, patients begin to walk after just 3 weeks and return to normal life within a few months.
At Kardiolita Hospital, patients often ask us about recovery from knee replacement surgery abroad. They want to avoid the high knee surgery price in Ireland and see Kardiolita Hospital as a potential alternative. However, they wonder how long it takes to recover in hospital.
Below, we answer your questions, going through the knee replacement surgery recovery timeline. Let’s get started.
Knee Replacement Surgery Recovery Timeline
Immediate Recovery
The first phase of recovery begins immediately after surgery. Patients are moved to a recovery room, where doctors and nurses monitor their vital signs. Pain management is critical during this period.
Pain medication and ice packs are used to manage discomfort. Patients are also monitored for signs of blood clots and encouraged to move their ankles and feet to promote blood flow.
Early physical therapy is key to recovery – during the first 24 hours, medical staff will help patients perform gentle exercises in bed and provide massage if necessary.
The First Few Days
Within the first few days post-surgery, patients are encouraged to start walking with assistance. This typically involves using a walker or crutches. Occupational therapists often work with patients to ensure a safe environment for recovery, particularly for those returning home shortly after the procedure.
Physical therapy starts almost immediately. The focus is on gentle, controlled movements to regain knee function. Range-of-motion exercises, as well as strength and flexibility training, are part of the regimen. Patients need to adhere to their physical therapy schedule to ensure a smooth recovery.
Up to Week 12
Most patients can walk again within six weeks of their hip replacement surgery. After the first week, the initial swelling and inflammation should subside. Gradual work with the physical therapist will continue to build strength.
Common exercises include:
- Toe and Heel Raises: Stand upright and lift yourself onto the balls of your feet, raising your heels. Then, lower your heels and lift your toes, shifting your weight to your heels.
- Hip Abductions: This exercise can be done in two ways. First, while standing, lift your leg sideways away from your body. Alternatively, lie on your side and raise your upper leg into the air, keeping it straight. Both variations effectively work the hip muscles.
Patients usually resume driving or return to work after 4-6 weeks of surgery. By week 12, some people can perform light exercises. However, high-impact sports like running or football are still off-limits.
After Three Months
It can take up to three months for patients to return to most exercises. Full recovery can still take 6 months to a year, depending on your age, overall health, and any pre-existing medical conditions. Physical therapy and light exercise continue to be important throughout this period.
Knee Replacement Surgery Abroad at Kardiolita Hospital
When considering knee surgery abroad, recovery is a key concern for many patients. You’ll find that the knee surgery price in Ireland is significantly higher compared to Kardiolita Hospital, often less than a tenth of the price.
A common question we encounter is about the safety of travelling post-operation.
Travelling after knee replacement surgery is safe, and many patients from various countries, including Ireland, choose Lithuania. To ensure a smooth and safe recovery, our dedicated team provides vigilant post-operative care, closely monitoring for any complications. We advise a hospital stay of 6 nights following your surgery for optimal recovery.
Gain improved knee mobility at a fraction of the cost you’d expect in Ireland. Register with us today for your knee replacement journey!
