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knee replacement complications
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General Health
Question #20896
45 days ago
107

knee replacement complications - #20896

Reyansh

I am feeling really lost about this whole knee replacement situation. It's been a few months since my surgery and honestly, I'm not sure if I'm better off or worse. I thought I’d be bouncing back after the procedure but I've been dealing with some pretty frustrating knee replacement complications. My mobility is still shaky, and it’s hard to walk without pain. I even tried physical therapy but sometimes the exercises just seem to make it hurt more. I started reading up on knee replacement complications online and it got me really worried. Some things I’m not sure about — like if swelling and stiffness are normal after this long? Is it possible I could have something worse, like an infection or something? Ugh, the more I think about it, the more I doubt if I made the right choice. I just thought I’d have to deal with pain after, not, you know, more complications popping up. If any of you had similar issues or know about knee replacement complications, what should I be watching for? Should I just go back to my doctor or is there something else I can do to manage these problems? Any advice would be sooo appreciated.

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Doctors' responses

Swelling, stiffness, and pain after knee replacement can be normal but it’s important to monitor their intensity and duration. Usually, these symptoms begin to improve after a few months post-surgery. Persistent issues might suggest complications. It’s good to be aware of possible issues like infection, prosthesis loosening, or deep vein thrombosis (DVT). If you’re experiencing increased pain, significant swelling, redness or warmth around the knee, fever, or chills, these could be signs of infection and need immediate medical attention. DVT is another serious condition where a blood clot forms, often in the leg. Watch for leg swelling, tenderness, or skin color changes.

Since physical therapy hasn’t helped improve your mobility and pain, evaluating your rehab routine might be needed. Different exercises, or even water-based therapy, could be beneficial as it’s a bit easier on your joints. It’s vital to tell your physical therapist about any increased pain so they can adjust your program accordingly. Pain management through medication can be crucial in the short term, but discuss this with your doctor to ensure safety and appropriateness for you.

Revisiting your surgeon or a joint specialist would be wise—they can do an examination to rule out serious complications. Imaging, like an X-ray or MRI, might be used for a detailed assessment. Ensuring adequate rest, ice application for swelling, and elevation can also support recovery. Your symptoms don’t necessarily mean the surgery was a mistake. Many people go through a roller coaster during recovery, and sometimes adjustments in care are needed. Stay proactive and keep your healthcare providers updated with any new or worsening symptoms to get your knee back on track.

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