Q:
I just had arthroscopic knee surgery. What types of exercises can I do to regain strength and stability in my knee? Answered by
Ken Alleyne M.D.
A:
You should discuss with your physician the appropriate exercises for the surgery that you underwent. Arthroscopic surgery encompasses a large number of procedures. Most of them do center around building the quadriceps muscle strength.
Q:
In what situations is it useful to use a knee brace? Answered by
Ken Alleyne M.D.
A:
Knee braces are frequently used to protect ligaments after injury, to protect a knee after surgery and to provide stability in certain situations. They may also be used to help relieve the symptoms associated with osteoarthritis. They come in a large number of "off the shelf" and custom varieties depending on purpose.
Q:
What types of medications are useful to reduce general knee pain and inflammation? Answered by
Ken Alleyne M.D.
A:
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatories under a physician's care.
Q:
What can I do to help quicken my recovery after knee surgery? Answered by
Ken Alleyne M.D.
A:
It depends largely on the surgery you underwent. The treating physician should dictate specific treatment. Usually the focus is on exercises to regain muscle strength.
Q:
Is there anything I should do to prepare for my knee surgery? Answered by
Ken Alleyne M.D.
A:
Most physicians want you to maintain range of motion and muscle strength to the greatest extent possible. You should speak to your doctor to determine what you can or cannot do.