What to Expect During Your Knee Surgery Recovery

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Knee surgery recovery is a gradual and measured process. It’s important to take things easy and not rush the healing. However, you also have to work to get yourself back to full functionality. If you’re preparing for knee surgery, there’s nothing to be afraid of, but it can help ease your nerves if you know what to expect during the recovery process. Today in the Pearl Recovery blog, we’ll go over what you can expect during knee surgery recovery.

Immediately After the Surgery

Once you’ve rested and fully woken up from the anesthesia, your surgery recovery process will begin. Your recovery may be a little different depending on the type of knee surgery and the extent of the repairs done, but for the most part, you can expect to begin rehab fairly soon after waking up. Your physical therapist will want you to stand and try to walk a bit with a device and their assistance. They’ll also give you some exercises to do so you can start gaining your strength back. Your doctor will also explain what needs to be done with your surgical dressings and explain how to do everyday activities like bathing.  

The First Week

During the first week, you’ll be working with your physical therapist fairly regularly. You’ll still be taking pain medication and resting, for the most part. You’ll also be monitored for any post-surgery complications during this time. After a few days, you should be able to shower if the surgical wound has healed enough. After a few days at the hospital, you can either go home or stay at a surgery recovery center like Pearl Recovery, where you’ll be able to get the most out of your recovery time.

Weeks 2-3

Eventually, you’ll be ready to go home. You’ll want to carefully follow any instructions your surgeon and physical therapist gave you in order to expedite the surgery recovery process. By the end of week three, you should be able to start getting back to your normal everyday activities.

Weeks 4 and Beyond

Depending on your job, you may be able to return to work by the end of the first month. If your job is physical, you may need to wait even longer. It’s important not to rush the surgery recovery process. Once you have full range of motion and are off your pain medication, you should be able to start driving again. After the first few months, you should be back to your normal lifestyle. Just make sure you’re not pushing too hard and that you’re checking in with your doctor and PT at the appropriate times.

Surgery Recovery at Pearl Recovery Retreat & Wellness

If you have to undergo surgery recovery, why not do it in comfort and luxury? Pearl Recovery Retreat and Wellness provides a tranquil place to recover from your surgeries. For more information or to book your stay, contact us today.