Meniscus surgery is a common procedure performed to repair or remove a torn meniscus, which is a rubbery, C-shaped disc that cushions the knee joint. While the recovery process varies for each individual, there are generally several days after the surgery that can be quite painful.
The first 24 to 48 hours following meniscus surgery are often the most uncomfortable. During this time, patients experience pain, swelling, and stiffness in the knee. The pain may be more intense during movement or when applying pressure on the knee. The surgical site may also be tender to touch.
The second and third days after the surgery can still be challenging. The pain and swelling may persist, although they usually begin to subside gradually. Patients are often advised to engage in activities that promote blood circulation and avoid prolonged immobility to prevent stiffness.
Around the fourth or fifth day, the pain generally starts to decrease significantly. The swelling also continues to reduce, allowing for improved mobility and comfort. At this point, patients can typically rely less on pain medication and may transition to over-the-counter pain relief options.
By the end of the first week, patients may start physical therapy to regain muscle strength and flexibility. Although some discomfort may still persist, this phase marks a turning point in the recovery process. Regular physical therapy sessions, along with recommended exercises and stretches, are crucial for a successful rehabilitation.
It is important to note that pain experiences may vary depending on the extent of the surgical procedure and individual factors. Additionally, every person’s pain tolerance is different, which can impact their perception of the recovery process. Communicating openly with the medical team and following their instructions is essential to manage pain effectively during the post-operative period.
In conclusion, the most painful days after meniscus surgery are typically within the first 48 hours. However, with proper care, pain management, and physical therapy, patients can expect gradual improvement in their comfort level and overall recovery in the days that follow.
Can you overdo it after meniscus surgery?
Don’t Overdo It Although exercise is the key to healing, you could be backpedaling progress by overworking your knee. Signs of over-exercising include swelling of the entire leg and lingering pain that stretches into the evening or into the next day.May 5, 2022
Can you damage your knee after meniscus surgery?
Surgery to repair a torn meniscus may make a person more susceptible to future meniscus tears or other meniscus injuries. A 2020 study notes that the risk of reinjury may differ according to which of the two menisci was initially torn.
Is meniscus surgery a major surgery?
If a meniscus tear is considered appropriate for an attempt at repair, a number of techniques can be used. The surgery is primarily arthroscopic (minimally invasive) although additional small incisions, or cuts, may be necessary to perform the repair. A variety of devices or sutures can be used to perform a repair.
How painful is meniscus arthroscopic surgery?
Arthroscopic meniscus repair is moderately painful. Because more soft tissue surgery is performed, it is more painful than a standard arthroscopy, but less painful than a ligament reconstruction or another procedure that requires drilling holes through the bone.
How to tell the difference between hip joint and muscle pain?
Problems within the hip joint itself tend to result in pain on the inside of the hip or the groin. Hip pain on the outside of the hip, upper thigh or outer buttock is usually caused by problems with muscles, ligaments, tendons and other soft tissues that surround the hip joint.
What is the best therapy for hip pain?
Physical and Occupational Therapy: Rehabilitative medicine and exercise programs can stretch and strengthen the muscles and soft tissues of your hip joint to improve flexibility and hip support.
Is physical therapy worth it for hip pain?
It can also keep you up at night, reduce mobility, and lead to overusing medications. Physical therapy is a great tool for hip pain solutions. A qualified physical therapist can use safe and effective strategies for improving your pain and quality of life.
How do you know if you have muscular or joint pain?
Joint and muscle pain represent two different medical conditions. While muscle pain is pain felt when the body is in motion, joint pain is more often felt when the body is at rest.
How do I know if my hip pain is muscle or joint?
Problems within the hip joint itself tend to result in pain on the inside of the hip or the groin. Hip pain on the outside of the hip, upper thigh or outer buttock is usually caused by problems with muscles, ligaments, tendons and other soft tissues that surround the hip joint.
