Knee replacement surgery is a common procedure. Following this surgery, it is normal to experience some degree of swelling around the knee.
Typical Swelling Progression
Immediately following knee replacement surgery, swelling and bruising around the knee are expected. This initial phase, lasting the first few days to one or two weeks, is when the body’s inflammatory response is most pronounced, as fluids accumulate at the surgical site. Moderate to severe swelling is common, often accompanied by discomfort.
As recovery progresses into the intermediate phase, spanning from weeks two to six, the swelling gradually begins to decrease. Some noticeable swelling can still be present, particularly after periods of activity or at the end of the day. Swelling may vary from day to day.
In the long-term phase, extending from three to six months, or even longer, mild swelling may persist. This is often observed after increased activity. Complete recovery and a normal appearance of the knee can take up to a year, influenced by individual health and adherence to rehabilitation protocols.
Strategies for Reducing Swelling
Elevating the affected leg above heart level helps reduce fluid accumulation and swelling. This can be achieved by propping the leg on pillows while resting or sleeping, for about 30 minutes at a time, several times daily. Elevation helps drain excess fluid.
Applying ice packs to the knee is another effective method for managing swelling and inflammation. Ice should be wrapped in a thin cloth to protect the skin and applied for 15 to 20 minutes at a time, several times a day.
Compression stockings or bandages, when recommended, can also assist in controlling swelling and may help prevent blood clots. These garments provide external pressure, which helps to limit fluid buildup in the tissues around the knee.
Gentle movement and physical therapy are important for promoting circulation and reducing stiffness. Performing ankle pumps, which involve flexing and pointing the feet, several times an hour can help improve blood flow and decrease swelling. Light physical activity supports fluid movement and overall recovery.
Recognizing Concerning Swelling
A sudden, severe increase in swelling, especially if accompanied by intense pain that is not relieved by medication, warrants immediate medical attention. This could indicate a complication beyond normal recovery. Similarly, if the swelling worsens after the first week or shows no improvement, it is a sign that something may not be right.
Signs of potential infection include redness, unusual warmth, or pus around the incision site. A fever above 101°F or chills alongside swelling are also concerning indicators that require prompt evaluation by a medical professional. These symptoms suggest an inflammatory response that is not part of typical healing.
Swelling that extends into the calf, ankle, or foot, particularly if accompanied by pain, tenderness, or redness in the calf, could signal a deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a serious condition involving a blood clot. Numbness or tingling in the foot or toes that was not present before surgery is another symptom that necessitates immediate medical assessment.