Quality of Life After Knee Replacement

Total knee replacement (TKR) surgery, also known as total knee arthroplasty, is an effective solution for individuals seeking to alleviate pain and enhance mobility and functionality following a knee injury or osteoarthritis.

A recent study by the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons (AAOS) found that 90% of patients who underwent total knee replacement (TKR) reported a notable enhancement in their quality of life.

Why is Total Knee Replacement so Common?

It is well documented that osteoarthritis of the knee is a prevalent issue, causing pain and functional limitations, particularly in the elderly population. The most common treatments for osteoarthritis are medications. Additional treatment options include physical therapy, such as backward walking on static stability, as well as the use of topical sesame oil and topical Linum usitatissimum L. (flaxseed) oil (Wiley). 

However, when patients have reached the end stage of osteoarthritis and/or are left with significant disabilities, their quality of life declines significantly, which has a negative impact on their overall well-being. In such cases, a total knee replacement represents the optimal solution.

What Can Affect the Quality of Life After Knee Replacement?

A review of studies conducted in different countries indicates that the quality of life of patients after TKR is dependent on a number of factors, including age, sex, comorbidities (the presence of two or more diseases), race, and body mass index. The reduction of pain and the improvement in the performance and function of the patient are key predictive factors in achieving a high quality of life after TKR. 

Another study demonstrated that total knee replacement significantly improved patients' quality of life, particularly six months after the procedure.

What kind of Improvements do Patients See after TKR?

• The majority of patients can anticipate being able to nearly fully straighten the replaced knee and bend it sufficiently to climb stairs and enter and exit a vehicle.
• Patients can now kneel. Although uncomfortable for many, it is not harmful.
• Day-to-day pain is significantly reduced and movement is no longer restricted.
• Sexual limitations are gradually eliminated and better sexual function.
• Patients report improved sleep quality, which contributes to better overall health.
• As a result of improved functionality, patients are able to resume activities such as driving and shopping.  
• An active lifestyle (low-impact sports such as swimming and water exercises can be practiced very soon after the surgery). 

How Can You Extend the Life of Your Knee Implant?

To ensure optimal performance of your replacement, it is essential to maintain an active lifestyle, promote blood flow to build muscle and adhere to a balanced diet to avoid excess weight gain.



Physical Exercises

As a general rule, it is advisable to adhere to the exercise program recommended by your orthopaedic surgeon and physiotherapist. As previously stated, the recovery period is not going to be a short one. However, with time, you will notice an improvement in your dexterity and mobility. Furthermore, your quality of life will improve as a result of the elimination of pain, even from day one.

The Turkey Luxury Clinics physiotherapy team recommends that you incorporate walking into your daily routine, even if it is just for a few minutes at first. As time goes by, you'll be able to gradually build up the amount of time you spend walking. This will help to prolong the life of your prosthesis. You'll be amazed at how just walking can help to maintain your joint arches, coordination, tone and strength!

Circulatory Exercises 

It may be helpful to consider the value of circulatory exercises alongside physical exercises. They have the potential to contribute to maintaining optimal arterial blood perfusion, which could in turn support the functional state of the musculature. 

On top of that, doing exercises to improve circulation can help your body get rid of excess fluid, which is great for preventing swelling after surgery. This can also help your operated leg get ready for rehabilitation exercises, so you can start moving around more easily.

The Turkey Luxury Clinics physiotherapy team will teach you how to perform these exercises so you can do them at home. It is very important to do them regularly. 

Balanced Diet

It is clear that maintaining an appropriate weight will be a priority for you going forward. If you exceed the recommended weight limit for your prosthesis, you are placing undue strain on it, which could potentially lead to complications.

Turkey Luxury Clinics is your ideal destination!

For most people, knee replacement is a total game-changer! It provides much-needed pain relief, improved mobility, and a better quality of life. And the best part? Most knee replacements can be expected to last at least 15 to 20 years!

Contact Turkey Luxury Clinics today to speak with our experienced orthopaedic team. They will be happy to provide you with a consultation on your case and recommend the optimal solution.