Physical therapy

Bio Oil is really good Ellen. The tight feeling and sensitivity does go on for some time I believe. I'm at nine weeks and I do find the bio oil helps.  I'm still going to therapy and expect to go for at least another four weeks yet and then continue on my own.   Best wishes for your healing. 

Ellen

I used coconut oil it's cheap and very effective. Also use a washcloth very softly at then you can push a little harder it will desensitized your scar tissue. Remember to push right around your scars to keep scar tissue from forming.

Hi, if getting very warm and red what out for infection, I used bio oil and massage very gently in circular motion on incision, check w/ PT also they are a great source of recommendations.

I use coconut oil (cheap and easy) Nerve is cut in surgery. Sensation can come back but no guarantees on what final will be. I have some days more sensitive than others. (10wks). More you manipulate and rub as long as incision is COMPLETELY healed, the better it desensitizes it. Plus, gotta break up the scar tissue. The longer it stays around the harder it is to lose it and can affect range of motion. Your PT should be able to help.

Length of time for PT ? Im planning 12wks at 2x a week. We had really bad snow and i missed week 4 and 7, they were closed. But not expecting to readd those lost 4 days...

To me, PT is THE most important thing. Learn good habits, see someone regular so they can explain what your feeling. It took 3 wks to break up my scar tissue and im glad i toughed it out. It felt grabby and puckered and pulled. My loss of range was related to it. Once it broke up my 84 has become 120 and my other leg 130. I had bilateral done.

I used Aloe Vera Gel 99 %. I understand what you say about skin being tight, tender and sensitive - all part of my healing process and it is important to keep massaging it and as hard as you can as this will go some way to help preventing scar tissue forming inside the operated area. It will gradually improve.

I kept going to PT for up to 8 weeks from/after surgery until I could get 130 degree bend in the knee.

John

PT can take 8-12 weeks @ 2x/week...usually...to achieve the desired 0 / +120 ROM.  Depends on scar tissue buildup, therapist skill, how much pain you can tolerate per session, how diligent you are doing your exercises at home, previous leg/knee conditions, age, and more.  In other words...everyone's different.

Cover the incision with a knee sleeve or loosely wrapped ACE bandage.  This prevents it from rubbing on sheets and clothes. There are various lotions; gotta find the one that works for you.  Very common, especially this early in the recovery.  Nerves are firing all over the place.

Bio oil or something similar.

Good healing