Total joint replacement of the knee is one of the most successful procedures that is done. However, as with most surgeries, there are risks involved. One of the risks is arthrofibrosis, which can occur is as many as 10% of the patients who undergo total joint replacement.
Fortunately, patients can lower their risks of developing arthrofibrosis after a total joint replacement with an intensive rehabilitation program before and after surgery. Here's what you need to know about rehabilitation if you are scheduling for a total joint replacement of your knee.
What is arthrofibrosis?
Arthrofibrosis is the formation of an excessive amount of scar tissue in a joint. Scar tissue can build up after a total knee arthroplasty and cause stiffness, pain, and limited range of motion. As scar tissue forms around and near the surgical site, fibrous adhesions form that will prolong rehabilitation and could quite possibly cause a lot of undue pain. It's best to avoid arthrofibrosis if at all possible.
What is the protocol for joint replacement rehab?
There are specific regimens dictated by surgeons for the rehabilitation physical therapists to do. This set exercises and instructions is called a protocol. Depending on your particular medical diagnoses and your physical health conditions, your surgeon may start your rehabilitation program before you even have the surgery. Your rehabilitation protocol will continue through after your surgery until your last post-op consultation with your surgeon.
Typically, rehabilitation to prevent arthrofibrosis following a total joint replacement surgery involves a combination of physical therapy, anti-inflammatory medication, ice, and periods of rest. You will likely need to have physical therapy sessions on a daily basis, particularly during the initial phase of your post-operative rehabilitation. It's important that you follow through with all instructions during the process to prevent the formation of excessive scar tissue at your surgical site.
What happens if arthrofibrosis develops?
If arthrofibrosis develops, you will need to undergo a very intensive and painful regimen of rehabilitation, which may be on an inpatient basis, depending on your ability to conduct daily activities of living. If the intensive rehabilitation fails to improve your knee, you may need to undergo arthroscopy, which is the surgical removal of scar tissue in your knee, followed by more rehabilitation.
There may be times during your recovery from total joint replacement that you may wish you had never had the surgery. But it's important to trust your rehabilitation team and follow the protocol so you can push through and reduce your risks of developing arthrofibrosis.
For more information on total joint replacement rehab, contact a professional near you.