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Does icing make knee stiffer?

Posted , 9 users are following.

Susie54
Susie54

Not sure if this is my imagination but it seems that after draping a cold wet towel over my knee it appears to be stiffer, is this normal? will be 4 weeks post op on Friday, any advice please, thanks guys

0 likes, 7 replies

7 Replies

  • anne07663
    anne07663 Susie54

    Posted

    It is for me Susie. I'm told that I can use a bit of heat to get the blood flowing and then the ice to close or restrict the blood vessels to keep it from swelling. Can't said I've actually done it though, maybe I should lol
  • jeanne_06699
    jeanne_06699 Susie54

    Posted

    I have exactly the same feeling but it supposed to be good for you. I am 14 weeks in and still the same.
  • CHICO_MARX
    CHICO_MARX Susie54

    Posted

    Yup...and you will have stiffness, "clicking and popping" and that "swollen" look for six months to a year...maybe a bit more.  All normal.  Just remember...your goal is zero /+120 (or more)...full range of motion.  Everything else is incidental.
  • tere52583
    tere52583 Susie54

    Posted

    You haven't lost your mind - yes icing stiffens the joint.  While I'm in my last 5 min. of icing I do twice through the alphabet with my big toe.  Then before I stand up I do some leg lifts or heel slides to move the joint before weight bearing.  Keep up your great work!
  • diana81923
    diana81923 Susie54

    Posted

    Hope it Gets better soon. Sorry I have no advise. Ice always makes mine feel better?? Best of luck to you love 👍👍👍
  • suki51
    suki51 Susie54

    Posted

    It may be that but draping a wet towel is not icing....I have small frozen gel pack at back of knee and large pack frozen peas on top of knee both with towel in between for comfort for at least 10 mins, more if I have time. It's easy to get confused by causes of sensations what with nerves ligament and muscles all in mix but be reassured stiffness will eventually go even if it seems more at some times than others Good luck

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