Post-Operative Care, Pain Management, Activity, and Home Exercises

This guide explains how to care for yourself after arthroscopic knee surgery. It includes recovery instructions related to:

• Anesthesia and sedation recovery
• Safe activity progression
• Pain management
• Diet and hydration
• Wound and incision care
• Symptoms that require medical attention
• Home exercise rehabilitation program

Proper recovery care can help reduce complications, improve mobility, and support healing after knee arthroscopy.

After anesthesia or sedation, it is common to experience:

• Slowed reaction time
• Drowsiness
• Memory lapses
• Impaired judgment
• Increased fall risk

Important Safety Instructions (First 24 Hours)

Do NOT:

• Drive a car or operate machinery
• Travel alone
• Drink alcohol
• Return to work or school
• Use exercise equipment
• Participate in sports or rough activity
• Care for children or dependents alone

Recommended Actions

• Rest for the remainder of the day
• Ask someone to stay with you if possible
• Use assistance when walking or standing

Because anesthesia increases fall risk, move carefully and ask for help when needed.

Some pain after arthroscopic knee surgery is expected and is part of the normal healing process.

Goals of Pain Management

Pain control is intended to help you:

• Rest comfortably
• Move safely
• Perform rehabilitation exercises
• Recover function

Pain management does not mean eliminating all pain completely.

Non-Medication Approaches

These may include:

• Ice therapy
• Gentle movement and exercises
• Relaxation techniques
• Elevation

Medications

Your recovery plan may include:

• Over-the-counter pain relievers
• Prescription pain medication

Important Safety Reminders

• Do not drink alcohol while taking prescription pain medicine
• Ask your healthcare team before driving while taking pain medication

You may return to your normal diet when you feel ready.

Hydration Recommendations

Drink:

• 6–8 glasses of water daily

Follow different instructions only if directed by your healthcare provider.

Important Instructions

• Keep the incision clean and dry
• Wash hands before and after dressing changes
• Use soap and water, then dry with a clean paper towel

If drainage occurs:

Use clean gauze until drainage decreases or stops.

Your care team may recommend:

• Compression stockings
• Elastic wraps

Avoid Water Immersion for 2–3 Weeks

Do NOT:

• Take baths
• Swim
• Use hot tubs
• Submerge the knee in water

Shower Restrictions

For the first 2–3 days:

• Do not shower
• Do not get the knee wet

When Cleared to Shower

• Use a protective shower cover if provided
• Avoid direct water pressure on the incision
• Let water run gently over the area
• Pat dry with a clean towel
• Do not rub the incision

Call your doctor if you experience:

• Sudden color changes in the leg
• Increased warmth or swelling
• Changes in movement or sensation
• Stitches or staples coming apart
• Ongoing dizziness
• Redness or swelling at the IV site

Contact your healthcare provider if you develop:

• Fever of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher
• Chills
• Increasing pain
• Pain not relieved by medication
• Increased redness, swelling, or tenderness
• New or worsening drainage
• Foul odor from incision
• Skin discoloration around incision

Get urgent medical help for:

• Chest pain
• Shortness of breath
• Persistent nausea
• Repeated vomiting

When to Start Exercises

Most patients can begin exercises:

• Approximately 2–3 days after surgery
• Once swelling and pain are manageable

Always follow your surgeon’s recommendations.

Exercise Frequency

Perform each exercise:

• 12–15 repetitions
• 3–4 times daily

Hamstring Stretch

Instructions

1. Sit at edge of bed
2. Keep operative leg straight
3. Bend forward at hips
4. Reach toward toes
5. Hold for 5 seconds

For Best Recovery Outcomes:

• Follow weight-bearing instructions carefully
• Perform exercises consistently
• Keep swelling controlled with ice and elevation
• Protect the incision from moisture and contamination
• Contact your healthcare team if symptoms worsen

How long does recovery take after arthroscopic knee surgery?

Recovery varies depending on the procedure performed, but many patients begin light movement within days and continue improving over several weeks.

When can I walk after knee arthroscopy?

Your surgeon will tell you when weight bearing is safe. Many patients use crutches, a walker, or a cane temporarily.

How often should I ice my knee after surgery?

During the first 48 hours, ice your knee for 20–30 minutes every few hours.

When can I shower after arthroscopic knee surgery?

Typically after 2–3 days, depending on your surgeon’s instructions.

What signs of infection should I watch for?

Watch for fever, redness, swelling, increased drainage, worsening pain, or foul odor from the incision.

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This content is for educational purposes and is not a substitute for medical advice. Consult your healthcare provider for personalized recommendations.