How long does it take to recover from arthroscopic surgery?

You will probably need about 6 weeks to recover. If your doctor repaired damaged tissue, recovery will take longer. You may have to limit your activity until your knee strength and movement return to normal. You may also be in a physical rehabilitation (rehab) program.

Is arthroscopy a major surgery?

By being less invasive, the hope is there will be less pain and a faster recovery. However, arthroscopic surgery is still a major surgical procedure, involves risks, and requires appropriate postoperative rehabilitation.

What are the complications of arthroscopy?

The possible complications following a knee arthroscopy include:Infection.Thrombophlebitis (clots in a vein)Artery damage.Excessive bleeding (haemorrhage)Allergic reaction to the anaesthesia.Nerve damage.Numbness at the incision sites.Ongoing pain in the calf and foot.

What can go wrong with knee arthroscopy?

Knee arthroscopy is widely acknowledged to be a safe procedure [4, 6]. Still, there are also known serious complications such as joint infection, deep vein thrombosis, pulmonary embolism, and there are even deaths reported [5, 7, 8].

Will walking on a torn meniscus make it worse?

A torn meniscus usually produces well-localized pain in the knee. The pain often is worse during twisting or squatting motions. Unless the torn meniscus has locked the knee, many people with a torn meniscus can walk, stand, sit, and sleep without pain.

How long does it take to fully recover from a knee arthroscopy?

How long is the recovery period after knee arthroscopy? The recovery period after knee arthroscopy surgery depends on the patient and his or her condition. For most cases, patients can return to office work within a week. And many return to a more active and normal lifestyle within one to two months.

What is the fastest way to recover from a knee arthroscopy?

General recovery tips can include:applying ice packs to the dressing and surrounding area to reduce swelling and pain.keeping the leg elevated for several days after surgery.resting well and often.changing the dressing regularly.using crutches and following the doctor’s recommendations about applying weight to the knee.

How long should your knee hurt after arthroscopic surgery?

Pain is quite common, most often in the area where you had pain before surgery, in the soft tissues below the knee cap, over the athroscopy wounds and occasionally the whole knee. The pain settles usually within two to three weeks, but may take upwards of six weeks.

Can I bend my knee after arthroscopic surgery?

You are encouraged to bend and straighten your knee as much as pain allows immediately after standard knee arthroscopy. Remember, however, that your knee may be swollen and full motion may be difficult for the first few days.

Can I sleep on my side after arthroscopic knee surgery?

Sleeping on your back can be an adjustment in and of itself. If you do choose to sleep on your side, roll to the non-surgery side and put a pillow between your knees. Use this position only if you’re having no luck getting to sleep on your back, and remember not to bend the knee.

Is walking good after knee arthroscopy?

You can bear weight and walk on the leg as you are able. Try to avoid limping and walk with a heel – toe pattern. Avoid walking for long distances for 4 to 6 weeks after surgery.

How long after a knee arthroscopy can I walk?

If necessary due to pain, patients may opt to use crutches or a walker for a few days after surgery. Once more comfortable, most people are able to walk with a minimal limp within one or two weeks after surgery. Most patients realize a benefit from arthroscopic knee surgery within 4 to 6 weeks.

What is the success rate of knee arthroscopy?

Arthroscopic surgery to remove a part of the meniscus is called arthroscopic meniscectomy and it has an approximately 90% success rate. Over time, the success rate diminishes following the surgery due to the impact of having less meniscus cartilage.

Why is my knee so tight after meniscus surgery?

Arthrofibrosis, also known as “stiff knee syndrome,” occurs when excessive scar tissue forms around a joint, limiting range of motion and causing pain and disability. It can be a complication of knee replacement or anterior cruciate ligament surgery, with infections and bleeding as known contributing factors.

Can you climb stairs after arthroscopic knee surgery?

Walking, standing, stair climbing, etc… are not good for the knee for the first week after surgery so don’t walk or stand anymore than is necessary until the discomfort and swelling from the procedure are gone. Your overall recovery time will depend on your particular problem. Be patient.

What is the best exercise after arthroscopic knee surgery?

Straight Leg Raises. Straight leg raising is an important exercise to do after knee surgery, as they can help improve the way your hip and knee muscles work while still protecting your knee.

How long do you need to elevate leg after knee surgery?

Keep your operated leg elevated at a minimum of a 45-degree angle. Prop your leg on cushions or pillows so your knee is at least 12 inches above your heart for the first three to five days after surgery. Keep your leg elevated if your knee swells or throbs when you are up and about on crutches.