A Targeted Knee Surgery
With over 790,00 surgeries performed every year, knee replacements are a common orthopedic procedure. A knee replacement removes damaged or degenerated bone and cartilage and installs a fully functional prosthesis. While most people are aware of total knee replacements (TKR), some patients can benefit from unicompartmental knee replacement. This procedure targets arthritis or degeneration in a specific part of the knee while preserving the other healthy parts. Changing a single part of the knee ensures a speedy recovery, especially for individuals who want to resume physical activity, like jogging. Following strict rehabilitation ensures joggers can return to the road as soon as possible.
Recovery after knee replacement
Following any knee surgery, the patient will require physical therapy (PT) and pain management. A complete knee replacement requires 3-6 months of recovery before the patient can resume regular activity. A unicompartmental knee replacement results in a shorter recovery period as there is typically less trauma to the knee. Surgeons can also use minimally invasive surgery (MIS) to perform unicompartmental knee replacements. The smaller incisions used with MIS reduce inflammation, scarring, and complications like infections. Thanks to MIS, some patients can resume walking short distances in just a few days and running short periods within a few weeks. These results vary by individual and depend on factors such as the patient’s previous health history.
Running can help with recovery
After unicompartmental knee surgery, the patient begins a PT regimen. The goal is to strengthen the knee and surrounding muscles to reduce pain and improve knee function. As therapy progresses, so does the intensity, and jogging may be a helpful exercise. Running promotes range of motion (ROM) while enhancing muscle strength and endurance. Patients can also improve cardiovascular health and increase endorphins for a better mood with running. Exercises like jogging also help with the longevity of the knee replacement and may reduce the need for future surgery.
Tips for a safe return to running
After partial knee replacement, patients must exercise care when resuming jogging. Starting too soon can increase pain and the chances of injury. Doctors recommend jogging short distances on soft surfaces like trails, grass, or a track. Hard surfaces like concrete or asphalt can transfer additional forces to the knee, leading to injury. Gradually increase the intensity and duration of runs while monitoring for signs of discomfort. Wear comfortable, supportive running shoes and perform a suitable warm-up and cool-down. Speak with a doctor or physical therapist if there are any signs of pain. Changes to running style or additional exercises may be necessary for long-term jogging success.
Back on the jogging track
Knee replacements are growing in frequency and popularity as a solution to address chronic joint pain and stiffness. The procedure is effective but requires a commitment to physical therapy for a successful recovery. Knee replacement patients who jog are eager to return to running. Following a tight rehab process ensures a speedy return to jogging. Within 3 months, most MIS unicompartmental knee surgery patients can return to pain-free exercise.
