Knee arthroscopy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure used to diagnose and treat various knee conditions. While the recovery time is generally shorter than traditional surgery, proper rehabilitation is essential for a full recovery. This blog will guide you through the rehabilitation process following knee arthroscopy.
What is Knee Arthroscopy?
Knee arthroscopy involves making small incisions in the knee to insert a tiny camera (arthroscope) and surgical instruments. This procedure allows surgeons to view the inside of the knee and treat issues such as meniscus tears, ligament injuries, and cartilage damage.
Post-Surgery Care:
Immediate Recovery: You may experience some pain and swelling after the procedure. Pain management and initial rest are crucial during this phase.
Wound Care: Keep the surgical incisions clean and dry to prevent infection. Follow your surgeon’s instructions on when and how to change dressings.
Activity Restrictions: Avoid putting too much weight on the knee initially and use crutches if recommended by your surgeon.
Rehabilitation Goals: Rehabilitation after knee arthroscopy aims to reduce pain and swelling, restore knee function, and improve strength and stability.
Early Rehabilitation:
Rest and Ice: Use ice packs to reduce swelling and pain.
Compression and Elevation: Apply a compression bandage and keep the knee elevated to minimise swelling.
Gentle Exercises: Begin with gentle range-of-motion exercises to prevent stiffness, such as heel slides and quad sets.
Intermediate Rehabilitation:
Strengthening Exercises: Introduce exercises to strengthen the muscles around the knee, including straight leg raises, hamstring curls, and calf raises.
Balance and Proprioception: Exercises such as single-leg stands and balance boards to improve knee stability and proprioception.
Advanced Rehabilitation:
Functional Training: Progress to more functional activities, such as walking, squatting, and stair climbing.
Sport-Specific Drills: If you’re an athlete, incorporate sport-specific drills to ensure you’re ready to return to your activity.
Rehabilitation Exercises:
Ankle Pumps: Improve circulation and prevent blood clots.
Quad Sets: Strengthen the quadriceps muscles.
Heel Slides: Improve knee flexibility.
Straight Leg Raises: Strengthen the quadriceps without bending the knee.
Mini Squats: Strengthen the muscles around the knee while improving balance and stability.
Long-Term Recovery:
Follow-Up Appointments: Regular check-ups with your surgeon to monitor healing and progress.
Continued Physiotherapy: Ongoing physiotherapy sessions to ensure full recovery and address any residual issues.
Return to Activity: Gradual return to normal activities and sports, following your physiotherapist’s guidelines.
Preventing Future Injuries:
Proper Warm-Up: Always warm up before engaging in physical activity.
Strength and Flexibility Training: Regularly perform exercises to strengthen the muscles around the knee and improve flexibility.
Safe Techniques: Use proper techniques during exercise and sports to reduce the risk of injury.
Rehabilitation after knee arthroscopy is essential for a full recovery and return to normal activities. By following a structured rehab program that includes gentle exercises, strengthening routines, and functional training, you can ensure a successful recovery. If you’ve undergone knee arthroscopy, working closely with a physiotherapist will help you achieve the best possible outcomes and get back on your feet quickly and safely.
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