Arthroscopic Procedures of the Shoulder and Knee

The total knee replacement procedure is performed in a hospital under spinal, or general anesthesia. During the procedure, an incision is made in the knee to access the joint so the damaged bone and cartilage can be removed. Once the damaged tissue is removed, the prosthetic device is inserted and is usually cemented into place with a bone cement. A plastic spaced is inserted between the femur and tibia components. The patella is usually resurfaced as well.

Recovery from Arthroscopic procedures of the shoulder and knee

A short hospital stay is likely, varying a bit depending on the type of procedure performed and the overall health of the patient. Patients usually experience immediate relief from the joint pain suffered before the replacement. However, there will be some post-operative discomfort that can be managed with prescribed pain medication.

Physical therapy starts in the hospital, as soon as possible after surgery, either the same day or next day, to ensure rapid healing and restoration of function. Most patients are discharged directly to home from the hospital with Visiting Nurses and Physical Therapy in their home. Occasionally, inpatient rehabilitation is needed before return to home.

Patients in physical therapy progress from taking steps with a walker or crutches to walking without assistive devices on stairs and slopes. Patients are also given exercises to perform at home to reinforce the rehabilitative process.

Risks of Arthroscopic procedures of the shoulder and knee

Although considered a safe procedure for most patients, there are certain risks associated with all surgery. These risks include: infection, excessive bleeding, blood clots, buildup of excessive scar tissue, limited range of motion, nerve damage, implant rejection, and death, to name a few. For the great majority of patients, total knee arthroplasty is successful and uneventful, providing effective pain relief and greatly improved quality of life.

You're Not Too Old to Get Fit!

Getting older comes with a unique set of challenges. Taking extra steps to care for your well-being is crucial to a high quality of life. Many seniors think their physical changes mean they have to stop being active. But, it’s more important than ever to stay in shape as you age.

With adjustments, there are ways for you to take care of your body and feel great.

Benefits of Staying in Shape

Exercise is an essential part of life. But, aging can make exercising a challenge. Staying active helps get the blood flowing through your body and carry oxygen to your organs.

Also, increased blood flow helps endorphins flood your brain. More endorphins help ease tension and stress. Lowering your stress levels helps your self-esteem as negative emotions have been released.

Staying active as you age can help you build and maintain your muscle structure. Our muscle tissue decreases as we age, but working out helps slow this down. Another benefit

of working out is it can help lower your blood pressure. Your blood pressure is crucial to your heart function. Staying fit ensures your heart performs at its best.

While you may think that you’re days of working out are over, you have plenty of reasons to keep going.

Exercises You Can Do

While you may not be able to lift 200 pounds over your head anymore, there are plenty of ways to keep your body strong.

As your body changes, you have to adapt how you work out. For example, jogging can be tough on the knees, back, and ankles. Instead, you can opt for low-impact activities like walking, which are easier to do. Low-impact movements put less strain on the joints but still do the job of keeping you moving.

Also, swimming is another way to ease the tension on your joints. The buoyancy of the water counters the effects of gravity on your body. Negating the pull of gravity allows for more range of motion and helps you complete more challenging movements.

Getting Help

Staying active is crucial to your health as you age.

But, it can be overwhelming to find a routine that works for you. But, you don’t have to do it alone.

Dr. Desio is ready to help you find what works for you. Schedule an appointment in the Worcester office today by calling 508-363-6363.