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Knee arthroscopy, what to expect?

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misha3812
misha3812

I have been having issues with my knee for 2 years now. An MRI showed a torn meniscus, however the specialist doesn't agree that the symptoms (pain, aches, etc.) stem from that. An arthroscopy will take place because I don't want a permanent damage to my cartilage and I want to the reassurance that nothing else is happening inside. What can I expect in terms of recovery and what are the things I can do to help after surgery? (I have excellent health and take no medications etc)

0 likes, 6 replies

6 Replies

  • penny69728
    penny69728 misha3812

    Posted

    ask loads of questions about recovery process, do's and don'ts, make sure you get exercises from hospital. Follow them and seek advise from a physio about strengthening the knee afterwards. if possible see a physio before op so your knee is in best possible shape for recovery .

    • misha3812
      misha3812 penny69728

      Posted

      Thank you! will do! I walk everywhere and to and forth work every day. Minimum 3 mile. I thought it would be wear and tear but never the meniscus! I will keep as active as I can be in preparation!

  • laura86808
    laura86808 misha3812

    Posted

    Hi,

    There are two potential arthroscopic cartilage ops. I have had both.

    If you are having a cartilage 'repair' where they stitch it back together you can expect 6 weeks on crutches. I took codeine for about a week and it was quite painful for the first 2 weeks or so. You will be in a big leg brace to stop you bending the knee beyond 30 degrees for 6 weeks. After the brace comes off you need a further 6-8 weeks of intense physio before you get to full strength.

    With a partial menisectomy where they 'clean up'/trim damaged cartilage you can expect to be weight bearing straight away but using crutches for confidence for the first couple of days. I only took prescription painkillers for 2 days and then moved onto ice and over the counter pain meds. The recovery is fast. Do the basic physio exercises at home. I am 2.5 weeks post op and walking normally without a limp. Will be back to full sport within another 4 weeks.

    Do the physio exercises you are told, ice, rest, elevation.

    Good luck

    • misha3812
      misha3812 laura86808

      Posted

      Thank you!! very helpful! I will keep this in mind and do all the physio!

  • The_Cretan
    The_Cretan misha3812

    Posted

    I HAD ARTHROSCOPIC SURGERY ON A TORN MENISCUS TWO YEARS AGO. THE TORN BIT WAS REMOVED. THE PAIN WAS FOUND TO BE ARTHRITIS IN MY KNEE FOR WHICH NOTHING CAN BE DONE AT THE MOMENT. HAPPY DAYS.

    • misha3812
      misha3812 The_Cretan

      Posted

      Thank you! forgot to mention the MRI showed no arthritis or wear or the knee or regions. So overall not bad, seems the meniscus is the only issue shown in the image.

      I hope you find a suitable treatment or exercise to help you!

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