How long until I can walk again?!


Question: How long until I can walk again?
I recently had an ACL and PCL reconstruction surgery this past Wednesday. The doctor said the operation went exceptionally well, but the pain is nearly UNBEARABLE. I know this because I've already had two previous operations, one to repair every ligament in my knee except the ACL and PCL and another ONE for knee manipulation.

Right now my knee is the size of a melon, and my lower leg is still asleep from the amnesia, but I'm allowed to put as much weight as I can handle on it. How long until the numbing agent wears off and I can walk properly again?

I also have nerve damage in my right leg, so I can't pull my foot up or to the right.

Answers:

Firstly, numbing agents only last a few hours--even the "long-acting" ones like Marcaine (Bupivicaine) only last about 10-12 hours. If you're still having numbness at this point, it is most likely due to swelling that is pressing on nerves. Please contact your doctor and notify him/her that you have SIGNIFICANT swelling and continued numbness. He/she needs to know this.

Keep your leg elevated as much as possible (make sure it's straight and above the level of your heart). For pain control, ice is your best friend right now. Keep ice packs on it for 20 minutes on...20 minutes off and repeat. You should also be taking prescription pain meds as directed by your physician, or at least Ibuprofen if you can tolerate it. It can take several weeks before your gait is back to normal. I suggest you get PROPER physical therapy during your recovery to help strengthen your knee and ensure you are using good body mechanics so that you don't cause any new injuries.

I'm a registered nurse with over 25 years experience.



You should stay off of your feet for at least three weeks. Then go from there.



I had a knee op last week (not ACL, but patellofemoral realignment) I was up and walking the same night - in theatre at 5pm on way home at 8.30pm.
The leg block wore off after around 24hrs*. (Anaesthetist said it would be anywhere up to 24 hours)
This week I am without a crutch and leg splint (not supposed to take the splint off yet, but the days are so damn hot atm and that thing was like an insulator!)

Ice your knee for 20 minutes every 2hrs* and try and keep it elevated as much as possible. You will recover faster this way. *Orthopaedic Surgeon recommendation as well as nursing instructions.

Hope that helps and I wish you a speedy recovery :)




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