If you have arthritis or damage that caused wear and tear to the knee, you may have had a knee replacement to restore function to the joint. After surgery, some pain is normal. About 30 percent of patients experience moderate pain after a total knee replacement. However, if the pain lasts for several weeks following surgery, it may be a cause for concern.
Normal Postsurgical Pain
A provider will give you anesthesia during a total knee replacement to put you to sleep. After the anesthesia wears off, it is typical to experience moderate to severe pain, swelling and bruising. Your physician will prescribe medications for postoperative pain relief.
You may experience some knee pain during daily activities and at night for several weeks following your surgery. Bending and kneeling may be uncomfortable. These side effects should subside with proper recovery and care.
Abnormal Postsurgical Pain
These factors are signs you may have a complication:
- Increased pain in the calf or tenderness surrounding the knee. This could be a warning sign of a blood clot in your leg. Notify your physician immediately if you suspect a blood clot.
- Sudden onset of chest pain. Chest pain, accompanied by shortness of breath, may be a sign of pulmonary embolism. This occurs when a blood clot travels to your lungs. Seek emergency care if you suspect pulmonary embolism.
- Tenderness of the knee wound and increased pain during activity and rest. This could be a sign of infection. Bacteria can enter your bloodstream through the surgical wound and cause infection. Notify your physician immediately if you suspect infection.
- Chronic pain, swelling and stiffness that affects daily activities. This could indicate a failed implant due to falling or loosening. This is rare for most patients and generally does not occur until many years after surgery, but is a possible side effect.
Reach out to your physician or orthopaedic surgeon if you experience ongoing pain after your knee replacement. They can help you determine next steps for treatment or pain relief.
3 Steps for an Easier Recovery
- Eat right. You may lose your appetite after surgery. Eat a balanced diet with an iron supplement to build up muscle strength and promote wound healing.
- Get enough physical activity. Light exercise is key to improve your new joint’s mobility and help you stay strong.
- Recover with rehab. A physical therapist will guide you through rehabilitation for your knee. You will be given specific exercises to follow to restore your leg’s range of motion.
Recover with the UM Rehabilitation Network
After a knee replacement, having the right recovery plan that’s tailored especially to you is important. The University of Maryland Rehabilitation Network (UMRN) offers first-class physical rehabilitation services across Maryland, from community hospitals to an academic medical center. Get better faster with UMRN’s expertise.
More to Read
- 5 Low-Impact Exercises to Alleviate Joint Pain
- Joints Hurt? Here’s How to Ease Joint Pain When Temps Drop
- Osteoarthritis: Finding the Best Treatment Option for You
