What Are the Causes of Stiffness After Total Knee Replacement?

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WHAT ARE THE CAUSES OF STIFFNESS AFTER TOTAL KNEE
REPLACEMENT?
- Plunes Healthcare
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After a total knee replacement surgery, stiffness
can occur due to various factors. One common
cause is post-operative inflammation. The body's
natural response to surgery can lead to swelling
and stiffness around the knee joint as tissues
heal. Scar tissue formation is another factor.
During the healing process, scar tissue can
develop around the knee joint, restricting
movement and causing stiffness.
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Muscle weakness and tightness play a significant
role in post-operative stiffness. Surgery and
immobility can lead to muscle weakness, which
affects the range of motion in the knee joint.
Additionally, tightness in the muscles
surrounding the knee, such as the quadriceps and
hamstrings, can contribute to stiffness by
limiting flexibility and movement.
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Poor rehabilitation or inadequate physical
therapy can also result in stiffness after knee
replacement. Effective rehabilitation is crucial
for restoring mobility and strength in the knee
joint. Without proper guidance and exercises, the
joint may not regain its full range of motion,
leading to stiffness.
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Complications such as infection or improper
implant placement can cause stiffness after knee
replacement surgery. Infections can lead to
increased inflammation and tissue damage around
the knee joint, hindering movement. Similarly, if
the implant is not positioned correctly during
surgery, it can affect the biomechanics of the
knee, leading to stiffness and discomfort.
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Lastly, pre-existing conditions like arthritis or
joint deformities can contribute to stiffness
post-surgery. These conditions may have already
limited the range of motion in the knee joint
before surgery, and although a replacement can
alleviate pain, stiffness may persist due to
underlying issues with the joint structure.
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THANK YOU
- Plunes Healthcare