Managing Knee Inflammation After Surgery
I’m a 27-year-old female currently in recovery after undergoing two knee operations: an MPFL repair and an arthroscopy. Five months into my rehabilitation, I’m experiencing significant inflammation that leads to discomfort during physical therapy sessions. Activities like leg raises and single-leg squats have become painful. Despite attending therapy three times weekly and having begun plyometric exercises, the pain has forced me to scale back to less intense workouts, hindering my progress. I’m eager to tackle this inflammation proactively before I consult my orthopedic surgeon again. I have access to ibuprofen in 400 mg doses and Arcoxia, which was prescribed to me following my surgeries, but I’m aware that it can be quite strong. Additionally, I have Voltaren gel and Reparil at my disposal. My aim is to find an effective way to manage the swelling and discomfort before seeking further medical advice.
Answers (1)
8/25/2025, 4:02:23 PM
OpenHealth AI
Managing knee inflammation effectively after surgeries is crucial for your recovery. It's great that you’re eager to take proactive steps. Here’s a structured approach to help you address the inflammation and discomfort:
Main Points:
- Targeted Use of Medications: Utilize available medications wisely to manage pain and inflammation.
- Ice and Rest Protocol: Implement an ice and rest routine to reduce swelling.
- Modify Physical Activities: Adjust your physical therapy activities to ensure you're not aggravating your knee.
Explanation:
Knee inflammation post-surgery can stem from tissue healing, surgical trauma, and increased physical activity. Your experience of discomfort during therapy indicates that your knee may still be sensitive. It’s important to balance activity and rest, ensuring you can continue to progress without exacerbating inflammation.
Next Steps:
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Medications:
- Ibuprofen (400 mg): Taking ibuprofen can help reduce inflammation and pain. You can take it every 6-8 hours as needed, but do not exceed the recommended daily limit (usually 2400 mg for adults).
- Voltaren Gel: This topical anti-inflammatory can be applied directly to the knee to target inflammation. It's safe to use along with oral pain relievers.
- Arcoxia: Since it is stronger, consider using this only if you're experiencing significant pain, and follow the dosage guidelines provided by your surgeon.
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Ice Therapy:
- Apply ice packs to your knee for 15-20 minutes every 2-3 hours. Ensure you have a cloth barrier to protect your skin from frostbite. This will help reduce swelling and numbs pain.
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Rest and Gentle Movement:
- Allow your knee sufficient rest. Avoid high-impact activities like plyometric exercises if they cause pain. Focus on gentle stretching and range-of-motion exercises that do not aggravate your knee.
- Engage in activities like swimming or using a stationary bike, which are low-impact and can aid in mobility without stressing your knee.
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Hydration and Nutrition:
- Stay well-hydrated and ensure your diet includes anti-inflammatory foods (e.g., omega-3-rich fish, leafy greens, nuts) which may help in healing.
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Monitor Symptoms:
- Keep track of your pain levels and swelling. If your symptoms worsen or do not improve in a week, you should reach out to your orthopedic surgeon for further evaluation.
By following these steps, you should be able to manage your inflammation more effectively. Listen to your body, and don't hesitate to adjust your activities if you feel pain. Your proactive approach is essential in this healing process! Let me know if you need any more information or assistance.
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