Swelling is the recovery. Not a setback.
What the first two weeks look like
For the first weeks after a knee replacement the knee is swollen, warm and bruised. That is the repair work going on underneath, and it is the most common reason people call the office worried something has gone wrong. Swelling that worsens after walking and settles overnight is expected, and so is bruising that spreads down toward the ankle.
Why it matters
Ice and elevation are not comfort measures. They are part of the treatment. Most people are told this once, on the day they leave, and remember about half of it.
- EXPECTEDSwelling, warmth and bruising for several weeks.
- EXPECTEDSwelling that worsens after activity and settles overnight.
- CALL TODAYCalf pain or tightness, especially in one leg.
- CALL TODAYA wound that opens, drains, or smells.
Your dose, your weight-bearing limit, your therapy schedule and the number to call all come from your own discharge paperwork — not from this lesson.
QUESTION 1 OF 2
Your knee is more swollen in the evening than it was this morning. What does that most likely mean?
ANSWER
The explanation appears here after you choose.
QUESTION 2 OF 2
Where do your own weight-bearing limit and therapy schedule come from?
ANSWER
The explanation appears here after you choose.
THAT'S IT
You know why the knee stays swollen, warm and bruised, which changes are worth a phone call the same day, and where your own limits and schedule come from.