Common Complications After Sports Knee Surgery - Knee clinic Manchester

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Common Complications After Sports Knee
Surgery

• 
  Written By Mr. Bilal Barkatali

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Introduction

• Sports knee surgery is a common procedure
  performed to address various knee injuries and
  conditions. While the surgery aims to improve
  function and alleviate pain, there are potential
  complications that can arise during the recovery
  process.
• Understanding these complications and taking
  preventive measures can help ensure a smoother
  and more successful rehabilitation. In this
  article, we will discuss the most commonly
  reported problems after knee surgery, the
  activities to avoid during recovery, sports that
  may pose risks after knee replacement, and tips
  to facilitate faster healing after surgery.

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What Are The Most Commonly Reported Problems
After Knee Surgery? 

• While knee surgery is generally safe and
  effective, some complications may arise. The most
  commonly reported problems after knee surgery
  include
• Blood Clots Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) Or Blood
  Clots In The Legs Are A Potential Risk Following
  Knee Surgery. These Clots Can Be Dangerous If
  They Travel To The Lungs, Causing A Pulmonary
  Embolism. These Are Avoided By Adequate
  Hydration, Early Mobilisation And Depending On
  The Type Of Surgery A Short Period Of
  Anti-Coagulation Medication To Thin The Blood For
  2-6 Weeks.
• Stiffness And Reduced Range Of Motion Some
  Patients May Experience Stiffness And A Limited
  Range Of Motion After Knee Surgery. Physical
  Therapy And Regular Exercise Can Help Address
  This Issue.
• Implant Failure Although Rare, Implant Failure
  Or Complications Related To The Artificial Joint
  May Occur, Necessitating Revision
  Surgery.Infection Surgical Site Infections Can
  Occur After Knee Surgery And May Require
  Additional Treatment, Like A Course Of
  Anti-Biotics.

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What To Avoid After Knee Surgery? 

• To ensure a smooth recovery, it is important to
  avoid certain activities after knee surgery
• High-Impact Sports Activities That Involve
  Running, Jumping, Or Abrupt Movements Should Be
  Avoided During The Initial Stages Of Recovery.
• Excessive Weight-Bearing Putting Excessive
  Weight On The Surgical Knee Can Impede Healing.
  Using Crutches Or A Walker As Advised By Your
  Surgeon Or Physical Therapist Can Help Distribute
  Weight And Protect The Knee.
• Twisting Or Rotational Movements Avoid
  Activities That Involve Sudden Twisting Or
  Rotational Movements, As They Can Strain The
  Healing Tissues And Increase The Risk Of
  Re-Injury.
• Overexertion Pushing Yourself Too Hard During
  Rehabilitation Can Lead To Complications. Follow
  Your Rehabilitation Plan And Progress At A Pace
  Recommended By Your Healthcare Team.

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What Sports Can You Not Do After Knee
Replacement? 

• After knee replacement surgery, certain
  high-impact and contact sports should generally
  be avoided due to the potential risks they pose
  to the artificial joint. These sports include
• Running High-Impact Running Can Place Excessive
  Stress On The Knee Joint And Increase The Wear On
  The Implant. A Recent Study However Has Shown
  That There Does Not Appear To Be Increased Wear
  Of The Prosthesis In Runners After Total Knee
  Replacement And That It May Be Safe To Run After
  Surgery.
• Contact Sports Sports Such As Football, Rugby,
  And Martial Arts Involve Significant Contact And
  May Increase The Likelihood Of Injury Or Implant
  Dislocation.
• High-Impact Aerobics Activities That Involve
  Repetitive Jumping Or High-Impact Movements Can
  Strain The Knee Joint And Compromise The
  Longevity Of The Implant.

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What Helps Knees Heal Faster After Surgery? 

• To facilitate faster healing after knee surgery,
  consider the following tips
• Follow Rehabilitation Guidelines Adhere To Your
  Rehabilitation Program, Including Exercises
  Prescribed By Your Physical Therapist, To Improve
  Strength, Flexibility, And Range Of Motion.
• Manage Pain And Swelling Use Prescribed Pain
  Medication And Follow The Guidelines Provided By
  Your Surgeon. Apply Ice Packs And Elevate Your
  Leg To Reduce Swelling.
• Maintain A Healthy Diet A Well-Balanced Diet
  Rich In Nutrients, Vitamins, And Minerals
  Supports Healing And Provides Essential Nutrients
  For Tissue Repair.
• Quit Smoking Smoking Can Impede The Healing
  Process. If You Smoke, Consider Quitting Or
  Reducing Smoking To Promote Better Recovery.

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Conclusion 

• While sports knee surgery can effectively address
  knee injuries, it is essential to be aware of
  potential complications and take appropriate
  precautions. By avoiding high-impact activities,
  following post-operative instructions, and
  working closely with your healthcare team, you
  can minimize the risk of complications and ensure
  a smoother recovery.
• Always consult with your knee surgeon or
  orthopedic specialist for personalized advice
  based on your specific condition and surgery.