WHAT IS THE RECOVERY TIME FROM ARTHROSCOPIC SURGERY?
The recovery time depends upon many factors, namely how extensive the arthritis was in the knee and what was done at surgery. Most patients go home the same day after surgery. Crutches are used for 3 to 7 days, but weight can usually be placed on the operated leg as tolerated. Rest, ice packs, and elevating the limb are also recommended. Physical therapy is not required for all patients, but is prescribed on an individual basis. It usually takes at least a week before patients can drive depending upon which leg had surgery and the car’s transmission. Most people can go back to a sitting job at one week after surgery, but patients who lift or walk a lot at their job may take longer. Activities are progressed according the amount of pain and swelling present in the knee. It typically takes about three weeks to recover fully for routine daily activities, but it may be two to three months before one can comfortably return to sports. Generally, the more arthritis there is in the knee, the l
