Knee pain after total knee replacement is a matter of concern, and once you know how to manage the pain, the fear subside. Total knee replacement is a surgical procedure whereby the diseased knee joint is replaced with artificial material. The knee is a hinge joint that provides motion when the thigh meets the lower leg. Having knee pain, and swelling is normal after a knee surgery.
Five ways to manage pain after Knee replacement surgery are:
- Rest: Resting is the first and foremost important thing once you are back after knee replacement surgery. The amount of rest you have is directly proportional to the healing rate. Pain, swelling, and over-activity are all related. The antidote to all three is the rest.
- Ice: Applying ice is one of the best and most natural ways to reduce pain and swelling after knee replacement surgery. Ice subsides pain naturally, so it is the best way to manage post-operative pain, swelling, and bruises.
- Elevate: You can elevate your legs higher than your hips. This posture helps you reduce your pain. This way, gravity will move the built-up fluid towards your heart to get rid of swelling and pain faster.
- Medication just after surgery: After the surgery, the effect of anesthesia wears off slowly; your healthcare team can provide pain medication either orally or through an intravenous tube. Medications include a potent opiate or opioid such as morphine, fentanyl, or oxycodone and are intended only for short-term use. It’s important to note that larger doses over time can lead to physical dependence and addiction. Follow your doctor’s instructions to avoid adverse effects.
- Pain medication: Most of the time, doctors prescribe nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) or naproxen (Aleve). In case severe pain persists, your doctor might prescribe more potent pain relievers such as tramadol (Ultram) or oxycodone (OxyContin).
