What Is Recovery Like After a Bilateral Knee Replacement? After 6 weeks, most patients care for themselves and continue normal tasks. Within 3 to 6 weeks, they are ready to drive. Knee replacement surgery might take anywhere from 4 to 6 months to a year to fully heal and get the full advantages.
Who may need a bilateral total knee replacement procedure?
Double knee replacement recovery time is usually at least 13 weeks. Your commitment to your rehabilitation program and how well you follow your therapist’s instructions will determine how quickly you recover. After three months, you should be ready to resume your regular activities. Learn More About Knee Replacement.
How long to recover from double knee replacement?
Oct 04, 2021 · Rehab is also more difficult because patients are unable to rely on a stable leg for support. Patients who have a double knee replacement must go to a facility for rehab after surgery. After a single knee replacement, many individuals go straight home and have physical therapy at home.
What to expect during knee replacement recovery?
Jan 21, 2022 · Recovery after either full or partial bilateral knee replacement surgery is just as important as the surgery itself. If you don’t follow the instructions of your doctor or therapist, it could negatively impact the outcome of your surgery. After bilateral knee replacement surgery, you will feel some pain.
What is the recovery timeline for a total knee replacement?
What Is Recovery Like After a Bilateral Knee Replacement? After 6 weeks, most patients care for themselves and continue normal tasks. Within 3 to 6 weeks, they are ready to drive. Knee replacement surgery might take anywhere from 4 to 6 months to a year to fully heal and get the full advantages.
What is recovery like for bilateral knee replacement?
People who have a double knee replacement only have to schedule one recovery period, and miss less work. For example, experts suggest that a person may return to a desk job 4 to 6 weeks after knee replacement surgery. A person who has two separate knee replacements will take 4 to 6 weeks off work for each knee.
How long does it take to walk after bilateral knee replacement?
You will probably be able to walk on your own in 4 to 8 weeks. You will need to do months of physical rehabilitation (rehab) after a knee replacement. Rehab will help you strengthen the muscles of the knee and help you regain movement.
How long does it take to heal from bilateral knee surgery?
Most people recover within 12 months, but your recovery time may differ depending on your age and overall health. Despite the risks and challenges of undergoing double knee replacement surgery, both simultaneous and staged knee replacements are often successful.
How painful is physical therapy after knee replacement?
You may feel some discomfort with your exercises, but this should be “reasonable” discomfort. If pain is excessive or lasts more than one hour after exercise, inform your therapist at your next visit. You may need to change the number of repetitions, the amount of pressure, or the how often you are doing the exercises.Jul 6, 2020
What are the do's and don'ts after knee replacement?
BlogDos and Don'ts Following Knee Replacement Surgery. ... Get moving: Do your prescribed exercises. ... Do elevate your leg and use ice. ... Do follow your physical therapist's instructions. ... Do follow your doctor's instructions on caring for the wound. ... Do eat a healthy diet. ... Don'ts following knee replacement surgery.
What is the fastest way to recover from knee surgery?
4 Tips for Faster Recovery after Knee SurgeryKeep the Knee Straight. While it may not be incredibly comfortable, it's important that you keep your knee joint completely straight immediately after your surgery. ... Wear Your Knee Brace. ... Appropriate Exercise. ... Physical Therapy.
How should I sleep after knee surgery?
The best way to sleep after knee surgery is on your back. This position makes it easy to keep your leg straight while sleeping, allowing proper blood flow to the surgery site. You can also prop your leg up using pillows while sleeping on your back.
What is the most commonly reported problem after knee replacement surgery?
Pain and Other Physical Complications. Knee replacement surgery can result in physical complications ranging from pain and swelling to implant rejection, infection and bone fractures. Pain may be the most common complication following knee replacement surgery.
How long does it take to bend your knee after surgery?
One to three weeks after surgery Typically, you'll be able to bend your knees at a 90 degree angle, fully straighten your knee, and walk for at least 10 consecutive minutes during this stage of physical therapy.
How many times a week should I do physical therapy after knee replacement?
You likely will need in-home physical therapy several days per week for 4-6 weeks. A third way is to do your PT at an outpatient rehab clinic. Some people have even the knee surgery itself as an outpatient, without an overnight stay. Your doctor will decide the best option for you based on your age and health.Dec 18, 2020
How much should you walk after knee replacement?
Your orthopaedic surgeon and physical therapist may recommend that you exercise for 20 to 30 minutes daily, or even 2 to 3 times daily; and walk for 30 minutes, 2 to 3 times daily during your early recovery.
What should I be doing 6 weeks after knee replacement?
We recommend to avoid longer trips for up to 6 weeks following surgery. During this phase, the knee can still feel quite tight at times. Some days will be better than others. During the first 6 weeks, the knee will still need "ice, elevation, rest and exercise."Aug 29, 2018
Should I have both knees replaced at the same time?
This procedure, known as a bilateral knee replacement (or double knee replacement), has both pros and cons. Your orthopedic surgeon and you must be...
What are the pros of double knee replacement?
Having both knees replaced at the same time enables patients to get back to their normal lives more quickly. Patients have one surgery, one hospita...
What are the cons of double knee replacement?
Studies show there is a greater risk of complications, including cardiovascular problems and blood clots. Patients lose more blood, so there is a h...
Who is a candidate for double knee replacement?
Candidates for the procedure must be in excellent health, aside from the arthritis, with no underlying medical problems. They must have no history...
Should I have both knees replaced at the same time?
This procedure, known as a bilateral knee replacement (or double knee replacement), has both pros and cons. Your orthopedic surgeon and you must be carefully weigh both before you make a decision.
What are the pros of double knee replacement?
Having both knees replaced at the same time enables patients to get back to their normal lives more quickly.
What are the cons of double knee replacement?
Studies show there is a greater risk of complications, including cardiovascular problems and blood clots.
Who is a candidate for double knee replacement?
Candidates for the procedure must be in excellent health, aside from the arthritis, with no underlying medical problems. They must have no history of heart or lung disease. They also need to be psychologically prepared for the intensive rehabilitation double knee replacement entails.
Advances in total knee replacement
Not long ago, many people thought that if you had one knee replaced, the pain and rehab would be so taxing you wouldn’t want to come back for surgery on the other knee.
Know what to expect before having a knee replacement
Whether having two separate procedures or both knees replaced simultaneously, the orthopedic surgeon should have a detailed discussion with the patient about what to expect.
How long does it take to recover from knee replacement surgery?
In this stage, you’ll get back on your feet and return to an active lifestyle. The 12 weeks following surgery are very important for recovery and rehab. Committing to a plan and pushing yourself to do as much as possible each day will help you heal ...
How long does it take to recover from a knee injury?
The American Association of Hip and Knee Surgeons (AAHKS) say that it can take up to 3 months to return to most activities, and 6 months to a year before your knee is as strong and resilient as it can be. At this phase of recovery, you can start to relax.
How to get back to normal knee?
Step-ups: Step up and down on a single step, alternating which foot you start with each time. Bicycling on a stationary bike. This is a very important time in your recovery. Committing to rehab will determine how quickly you can return to a normal, active lifestyle, and how well your knee works in the future.
How to straighten knees?
Try to bend and straighten your knee, using a CPM machine if needed. Day 2. Sit up and stand, change locations, walk a little farther, climb a few steps with help, and possibly shower. Try to increase your knee bend by at least 10 degrees and work on straightening your knee.
How long does a knee last after TKR?
The AAHKS recommends seeing your surgeon every 3 to 5 years after TKR.
How long do you stay in the hospital after knee surgery?
You will likely stay in the hospital for 1 to 3 days after surgery, but this can be a lot longer. When you can leave the hospital depends heavily on the physical therapy you need, how quickly you are able to progress, your health before surgery, your age, and any medical issues. By now your knee should be getting stronger ...
What to do at week 12 of knee replacement?
Week 12. At week 12, keep doing your exercises and avoid high-impact activities that could damage your knee or the surrounding tissues, including: At this point, you should have much less pain. Keep talking to your healthcare team and avoid starting any new activities before checking with them first.
How to improve knee motion after TKR surgery?
By the third week after your TKR surgery, you should be working in an outpatient physical therapy facility. More aggressive ROM exercises can be started, and your knee motion should improve gradually to about 100-105 degrees by the end of week 6. 4 . You may benefit from riding a stationary bicycle after TKR surgery.
What to do after TKR surgery?
Usually, a standard walker or a wheeled walker is used after surgery to help provide extra support while you are walking. Your acute care physical therapist will also instruct you ...
What is TKR protocol?
A knee post-operative protocol is a general guideline that your surgeon and physical therapist may follow to ensure that you are progressing properly after your surgery. The TKR protocol provides you and your physical therapist (PT) a framework on which to build your rehabilitation program.
How long does swelling last after TKR surgery?
Sometimes swelling persists for many weeks after TKR surgery. 6 .
What is a total knee replacement?
A total knee replacement (TKR) surgery is typically done when severe arthritis causes knee pain, limited motion, and extreme difficulty with walking. If you have had a TKR or are expecting to have one, you may benefit from physical therapy after surgery to help you regain your normal mobility. 1 . A knee post-operative protocol is ...
Why do people go to home physical therapy?
The focus of home physical therapy is to maximize your safe functional mobility in your home. You will likely continue on working on knee ROM and strength.
What to do after TKR?
As your surgical incision heals, your physical therapist may begin gentle scar tissue massage and mobilization to help improve the mobility of your incision.
Total Knee Replacement, Double Knee Replacement
Arthritis is a condition in which the joints become inflamed. The disease has the potential to affect one or several joints, resulting in discomfort and stiffness in the afflicted region. These symptoms typically suggest that the cartilage in the joints has worn away in one or both knees.
What Is a Bilateral Knee Replacement?
A surgeon replaces the injured portions of the knee joint with an artificial knee, or prosthesis, during knee replacement surgery. They use metal, plastic, and ceramic to create a prosthesis. It can help the injured knee regain virtually all of its function while also alleviating arthritic discomfort.
Why Do I Need a Bilateral Knee Replacement?
The most frequent reason for a bilateral knee replacement is acute arthritis, which causes painful symptoms in both knees, making everyday tasks difficult and lowering one’s life quality substantially. Stiffness may make ordinary things like putting on your shoes extremely difficult.
Advantages and Disadvantages of a Bilateral Knee Replacement
The benefits of bilateral knee replacement are mostly linked to cost and efficiency. People who get a double knee replacement need only one recovery time and miss less time at work. Experts say that 4 to 6 weeks following knee replacement surgery, a person can return to a desk job.
Who Is a Good Candidate for a Bilateral Knee Replacement?
Those who are athletic and have strength in the muscles, ligaments, and tendons surrounding their knees are the greatest prospects. You’ll also do better if you’re in good physical shape. It’s preferable if you don’t have any other medical issues, including heart or lung illness. Below, we list the traits of those who are not good candidates.
What Is Recovery Like After a Bilateral Knee Replacement?
After 6 weeks, most patients care for themselves and continue normal tasks. Within 3 to 6 weeks, they are ready to drive. Knee replacement surgery might take anywhere from 4 to 6 months to a year to fully heal and get the full advantages.
Contact SPORT Orthopedics for a Bilateral Knee Replacement in Dallas
At SPORT, our orthopedic specialists have extensive experience with both surgery and alternative treatments. Along with knee surgery, we offer a less invasive knee arthroscopy surgery for other conditions. If you experienced a patellar fracture for example, this might be a viable option.
How long does it take to recover from knee replacement surgery?
The first 12 weeks after knee replacement surgery are the most critical time for rehabilitation and recovery. During this time, you need to be committed to following the doctor’s recommendations, which will help to improve your long-term prognosis.
How long does it take to get out of the hospital after a knee replacement?
Here is an overview of what you can expect during these 12 weeks: Days 1 – 3: In the hospital, you will work with a physical therapist and occupational therapist to work on straightening and bending the knee. Discharge Day: Most people are discharged from the hospital within a few days.
What is knee replacement surgery?
Knee replacement surgery (also commonly known as total knee replacement or knee arthroplasty) is a surgical technique to repair the knee joint. Plastic and metal prosthetic parts are attached to the bones in the knee joint. During the procedure, damaged cartilage and bone are cut away. Then an artificial joint is put in place.
What to do if knee is swollen and tender?
Rest and Ice: The knee will be swollen and tender, which is why you need to follow doctor suggestions for keeping the leg elevated and icing the joint. Medications: Not only does medication help with pain management, but it is also vital to reduce inflammation. Sometimes antibiotics are needed for preventing infection.
What are the weeks of physical therapy?
Weeks 7 – 11: Physical therapy and rehabilitation continue. At this point, you will be working on range of motion, mobility, and strengthening the muscles. Week 12: You can start to return to normal activities but still need to avoid high-impact exercise (such as aerobics, running, basketball, skiing, etc).
Can you use crutches on a knee?
Since the knee needs to heal, you must use crutches. Some patients transition to a cane or walker as the recovery progresses. Consider using other modifications, such as handrails, a shower bench, a reaching stick, and removing loose cords and rugs that could cause a fall.
Can knee replacement surgery be done for arthritis?
This surgery might be required for someone with a severe knee injury or people who experience pain from chronic arthritis. A sports medicine doctor might recommend knee replacement surgery based on your knee’s strength, stability, and range of motion.
What happens after knee replacement surgery?
Immediately following the knee replacement surgery, depending on the type of anesthetic that you received, you will either wake up or come around from any sedating medications that you have been given during the surgery in the recovery room. Your knee will be wrapped in bandages and a surgical dressing.
How long does it take to recover from knee replacement?
Recovery from the knee replacement is a slow process and many patients want to be back to a baseline level of activity within a few weeks of the surgery.
How long does it take for pain to go away after knee surgery?
It will take one to two weeks for the postsurgical pain to dissipate; however, this does not indicate that the knee has fully healed. There will be some discomfort in the knee up to around 6 weeks following the surgery and in some patients, this may even persist up to 3 months following the surgery.
How long after knee replacement can you take pain medication?
You should attempt to wean off your pain medications as soon as possible – this is usually easiest to start doing one to two weeks after the surgery and you can continue weaning off your pain medications up to around 6 weeks following your knee replacement.
Why does my knee hurt after knee replacement?
The pain is caused by a number of factors including the muscles around the knee recovering from the surgery and regaining strength that they have lost as a result of the surgery, as well as other tissues around the knee healing and getting used to the new biomechanics of the knee joint.
Why do knee replacements have sleeves?
The sleeves and wedges are used to fill in bone gaps encountered intraoperatively. The components of the knee replacement were never designed to bear weight through the patellofemoral compartment and this is the most common reason why patients find it uncomfortable to do so.
How do you know if you have a spinal anesthetic for knee replacement?
If you received a spinal anesthetic for the knee replacement, you will still be numb through approximately your waist downwards at this stage. If you received a general anesthetic, you will not be numb and you may notice soreness and pain in the knee at this point in time.
