“Is it normal to have pain and swelling after an arthroscopic surgery? ”
My father underwent an arthroscopic surgery 3 months back. Although he has recovered well from the surgery, he still has swelling and pain around the knee area often. Is it normal or does it mean he has still not recovered from the surgery well? Should we consult the doctor or wait for it to subside on its own.
6 Answers
Dear FATD Patient,
Following an arthroscopic knee surgery at the 3-month time period, swelling is likely an indication of increased weight bearing or walking, and this is typical if his activity tolerance has increased. I would recommend a knee compression sleeve to help minimize the swelling. With respect to the pain, there could be a multitude of factors, and an examination of the knee would be necessary to identify the etiology. I would recommend seeking a consult of a Physical Therapist or your Physician if the pain does not improve, I hope this helps.
Following an arthroscopic knee surgery at the 3-month time period, swelling is likely an indication of increased weight bearing or walking, and this is typical if his activity tolerance has increased. I would recommend a knee compression sleeve to help minimize the swelling. With respect to the pain, there could be a multitude of factors, and an examination of the knee would be necessary to identify the etiology. I would recommend seeking a consult of a Physical Therapist or your Physician if the pain does not improve, I hope this helps.
Please check with the doctor if pain persists.
Regards,
Regards,
It is normal to have swelling immediately after any arthroscopic surgery because swelling is the first step to the healing process. The blood has to carry nutrients/building blocks to the injury and take away the waste products. However, it is not normal for this to last three months. This indicates something is still being damaged, and it could be something as simple as the swelling itself causing pinching (impingement). I would suggest following through with the consultation.
Sometimes it takes up to a year for the pain and swelling to go away completely, however, he needs to continue PT program and follow up with his surgeon.
Pain and swelling is completely normal after surgery, however a high level of pain and swelling 3 months out is a concern that should be expressed to the surgeon.
You should consult with the surgeon. It can be normal. If your dad is greater than 40 years old, more than likely he had an arthritic knee. If they did a meniscectomy, then it can be normal. Studies show the only reason why you have a meniscectomy is if you failed conservative treatment (physical therapy, cortisone injections, viscosupplement injections) or if your knee gets stuck. The older you are, the worse your prognosis following a knee replacement.
