This article will go over what to expect from knee arthroscopy recovery.
Verywell / Ellen Lindner
Yourkneearthroscopy recovery starts as soon as you get out of surgery.
Your last visit with your surgeon will typically be around one year after the surgery.
Verywell / Ellen Lindner
Pain Management
Managing pain is an important part of your knee arthroscopy recovery.
You will likely be given an initial prescription fornarcotic pain medicationto help with symptom management after the surgery.
Arthroscopic Knee Surgery Recovery Timeline
Every patient’s knee arthroscopy recovery timeline is different.
Your return to work will be dependent upon your specific job duties.
Weight-Bearing Restrictions
You may haveweight-bearing restrictionsthroughout your knee arthroscopy recovery.
Your surgeon will inform you when it is safe to bear weight through your leg.
Many arthroscopic knee procedures allow “weight-bearing as tolerated” on the leg that was operated on.
All standing exercises should be performed with the brace on.
Coping with Knee Arthroscopy Recovery
Recovery from knee arthroscopy can vary depending on the procedure performed.
You may experience pain and discomfort in your knee after the operation.
Your healthcare provider will prescribe you pain medication to help manage symptoms after the surgery.
Each incision site will be covered with a small bandage after the surgery is completed.
Your surgeon will give you specific instructions about how long to keep the bandages covering the surgical sites.
Once you remove the bandages, wash gently around the incisions and pat dry.
Applying ice to your knee can help provide pain relief and decrease swelling and inflammation.
Do not apply ice directly to the skinas it can cause temperature-related damage to the skin and blood vessels.
Decreased swelling will result in less pain, increased range of motion, and quicker recovery time.
These are characteristic signs ofdeep venous thrombosis(blood clot) that require immediate medical attention.
Summary
Play an active part in your knee arthroscopy recovery.
Frequently Asked Questions
Every patient’s recovery from knee arthroscopy is different.
You might have pain in your knee for a few weeks to a couple of months after your surgery.
In general, most people need about six weeks to recover.
The swelling can last several months.
Both the pain and swelling should gradually get better with time.
Your provider will let you know when you’re able to safely start driving again after knee arthroscopy.
Most patients can get behind the wheel one to three weeks after surgery.
Mammoth Hospital: Orthopedic Surgery and Sports Medicine.Arthroscopic Knee Surgery Instructions.
Kaiser Permanente.Knee Arthroscopy: What to Expect at Home.
American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons.Knee Arthroscopy.
