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Knee Replacement Surgery

nee replacement surgery is increasing exponentially, much more than other joint operations.

The most common age for women to have this operation is in their mid-60s and it is similar for men, but age can range from the 30s to the early 90s. Mr. Edwards (Orthopaedic surgeon) states that carrying extra weight can be a big cause. Carrying extra weight gives a higher incidence of developing osteoarthritis.

However, genetic influences and trauma can also be reasons why people need knee replacement operations. Knee replacement surgery is slightly more prevalent in women, he says. That’s because there is a slightly higher predisposition in women to what we call primary arthritis, but it affects both males and females.

With a knee replacement operation, there is post-operative physiotherapy involved. Usually, it is quite painful, but there are few restrictions. The success rate with knee replacements is approximately 85-90%. However, a lot depends on the patient—you have to put the work into the rehab.

Recovery and Rehabilitation

Patients are usually in hospital for 2-6 days when having a knee replacement operation. Patients are up and walking the day after surgery and are encouraged to walk up and down stairs before leaving the hospital.

Following exercise instructions at home after the operation is really important.

Rehabilitation after the operation usually involves:

  • Full farming duties may be resumed after twelve weeks
  • Using two crutches for two to four weeks
  • Range of movement exercises at the knee to restore knee function
  • Strengthening exercises for the muscles around the knee joint, especially the quadriceps muscle
  • Balance work to progress safe walking
  • Progressing to using a single crutch for two to four weeks
  • Driving is not allowed for six weeks
  • Farmers can ‘tip around’ on the farm eight weeks after surgery
  • Tractor driving may be possible after eight to ten week

If you have knee pain, pop into us at Motion Physio Clinic, Prosperous, Tel: 045 841010. I can perform an assessment, give you a diagnosis and treat you as required.