Monday, May 20, 2013

Physical Therapy

Following the replacement surgery for my knee joint, I've tried physical therapy and a special splint to stretch my knee. I just don't seem to be getting any more movement in my knee. What are my options now?

If you're not getting improved knee movement after aggressive physical therapy and the splint, your doctor may recommend a procedure called manipulation under anesthesia. This involves a forceful stretch of the knee while you're asleep from anesthesia. This treatment is designed to break up scar tissue and improve knee motion. Patients usually resume physical therapy after manipulation.

If you still don't have better movement in your knee, additional surgery may be suggested. Choices include surgery using an arthroscope to remove scar tissue followed by a forcefull stretch of the knee. Less commonly, surgeons may need to revise or replace the parts of the prosthesis.

This is an excerpt from eOrthopod.com, a website providing patients with clear, accurate and understandable information about their orthopedic and musculoskeletal conditions and injuries. eOrthopod.com includes a comprehensive library of multimedia web topics, news articles and FAQ database on musculoskeletal health. eOrthopod.com also hosts eOrthopodTV, in depth video interviews with practicing clinicians about the evaluation and treatment of common conditions and injuries of the muscles, bones and joints. For more information, visit eOrthopod.com.