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The Road to Recovery: Post-Knee Arthroscopy

Knee arthroscopy is a turning point—a chance to finally address knee pain, knee injuries, and regain your mobility and quality of life. But let’s face it: while this minimally invasive surgical procedure is straightforward, the journey to recovery is equally important. At Ortho Westmount, we’re committed to guiding you every step of the way, offering expert knee arthroscopy post-op instructions, tailored post-knee arthroscopy exercises, and personalized care.

Here’s your all-in-one guide to post-knee arthroscopy recovery, covering essentials like managing pain and post-knee arthroscopy swelling, safe movements, and recognizing any red flags. Let’s get you moving towards a smooth, strong recovery.

Knee Arthroscopy Recovery Guide

Immediate Aftercare: The First 24-48 Hours

The first 48 hours after arthroscopic knee surgery are all about resting and laying the groundwork for successful post-knee arthroscopy recovery. During this phase, it’s essential to follow your knee arthroscopy post-op instructions carefully to minimize pain and prevent complications.

Knee Arthroscopy Post-Op Instructions

Once you’re home, limit weight on your involved leg for the first day, using crutches if recommended. While some gentle movement is encouraged, most of your time should be spent with the leg elevated and the knee straight, with pillows under the calf and foot but not directly under the knee joint. Taking pain medication as prescribed will also keep you comfortable. And remember, it’s best to have a family member or friend around to help you until you feel steady.

Managing Swelling

Some swelling is to be expected following virtually any surgical procedure; cold therapy can be your best ally in managing it. Apply an ice pack or cold compress over the knee joint for a few minutes every hour, however, you should avoid placing ice directly on the skin. Instead, use a thin towel to protect your skin. You may also experience mild to moderate bruising near the involved knee and upper leg.

If you notice increased pain, redness, or swelling, contact your doctor–these signs could be symptoms of deep vein thrombosis.

Post-Knee Arthroscopy Exercises: Safe Movement and Physical Activity

Once those first 48 hours are behind you, it’s time to get moving.

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In the early stages of your recovery, start with simple, low-impact exercises. Your goal is to steadily build strength and work on your flexibility without putting excessive strain on your repaired knee. Your surgeon will recommend when to start more intense physical therapy to work on improving your strength and mobility. Listed below are some of the most commonly suggested movements in the early stages of knee arthroscopy recovery:

Short Walks

Begin by taking a few short walks around the house, carefully keeping weight on the involved leg only as tolerated. Keep the pace slow and steady.

Straight Leg Raises

Lie on your back with your uninvolved knee bent and the foot flat on the floor, while keeping the involved leg straight. Tighten the thigh muscles of your involved leg and slowly lift it about 6-12 inches off the floor, hold briefly, then lower it back down; repeat within the limits of your comfort.

Heel Slides for Knee Flexion

While lying on your back, extend both legs, then slowly slide the heel of the involved leg toward your body to gently bend the knee. Move in a slow, controlled manner, stopping if you feel pain or increased tightness, and aim for several repetitions.

Quadriceps Stretch

Lie on your side with the involved knee bent and on top, and gently pull the heel of the involved leg toward your glutes to stretch the quadriceps. Hold this stretch for 15-30 seconds, keeping the motion slow and steady to avoid straining the knee.

Quadriceps Contractions (Quad Sets)

While lying on your back with the involved leg straight, tighten the top of your thigh by pushing the back of your knee down toward the floor. Hold the quadriceps muscle contraction for a few seconds, then relax and repeat to gently build strength in the quadriceps without moving the knee.

Mobility Aids, Rest and Elevation

When using crutches, try to walk with a flat foot and keep the knee bent slightly to avoid straining the knee joint. It’s wise to avoid long periods of standing, which can make the knee swell and lead to discomfort.

When you’re resting, keep your leg elevated as much as possible to reduce swelling and encourage healing. Place one or two pillows under your leg with the knee straight (not directly under the knee itself) to promote blood flow, and avoid sitting or standing for long periods, as this can increase swelling.

Wound Care and Dressing: Essential Knee Arthroscopy Post-Op Instructions

Daily Wound Care After Knee Arthroscopy

Keep the incision area clean and dry, especially in the first few days after surgery. Your initial dressing can usually be removed three days after the procedure, but if steri-strips are applied, leave them on for about 10 days, or until they fall off on their own (which usually happens at the end of the first week). After the removal of your initial dressing, change the new bandage daily, checking the wound site for signs of infection or unusual discharge.

Guidelines for Showering and Avoiding Water Immersion

Three days after your surgery, you can resume showering, but avoid letting water directly hit the incision. Pat the area dry afterward without rubbing. For now, avoid baths, swimming pools, or any water immersion activities until cleared by your surgeon.

Pain Management and Reducing Post-Knee Arthroscopy Swelling

Pain and swelling are part of the healing process, but effective pain management can significantly ease your post-knee arthroscopy recovery.

Taking Pain Medication and Safe Practices

Take your prescribed pain medication on schedule to stay ahead of discomfort. Pain medications not only help keep you comfortable but also allow you to complete post-arthroscopy knee exercises without unnecessary strain. Remember to securely store any unused medications to avoid accidental use.

Cold Compression for Managing Post-Knee Arthroscopy Swelling

Using ice packs or a cold compression wrap on your knee joint multiple times a day will help manage post-knee arthroscopy swelling. This also reduces soreness, allowing you to progress safely with your rehabilitation. Cold compresses can be especially helpful if applied after exercises to prevent the knee from swelling up.

Recognizing Complications in Post-Knee Arthroscopy Recovery

While knee arthroscopy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure, complications can sometimes occur. Recognizing signs that require immediate attention is key.

Persistent Bleeding: If you experience bleeding that doesn’t stop with gentle pressure, or if it continues to soak through the bandage, reach out to your healthcare provider.
Severe Pain or Swelling in the Calf or Foot: Noticeable swelling, changes in color, or a cool sensation in the foot may indicate a circulation problem.
Signs of Infection: Symptoms like a fever over 101°F, increased redness, swelling, or discharge at the wound site could suggest an infection. Don’t hesitate to contact your healthcare provider if these symptoms arise.

Choose Ortho Westmount for Your Knee Arthroscopy and Orthopedic Care

When it comes to arthroscopic surgery and orthopedic care, experience and expertise matter. At Ortho Westmount, our team can help you get back to moving comfortably and confidently, ready to embrace a full, active lifestyle.

If you want more information about our approach, our fee guide, or want to schedule a consultation, call 514-932-6455 or complete our patient questionnaire to get started.

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