knee pain day of procedure tips

Overview

This article gives you practical tips for the day of your knee procedure. A knee procedure, such as keyhole surgery on the knee joint or a knee replacement, is a medical treatment for knee pain or damage. Knowing what to expect can help you feel calmer and prepare for a smoother recovery. The principles here follow the same approach used in the UK’s National Health Service and other international guidelines.

Knee procedures are very common. Many people around the world have knee surgery every year to relieve pain, improve movement, or fix damage from injury or arthritis.

Anyone with knee pain that does not improve with rest, physiotherapy, medicines, or other treatments may be advised to have a knee procedure. It affects people of all ages, but it is more common in older adults with arthritis and in younger people with sports injuries.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• Mild to moderate pain around the knee after the procedure
• Some swelling and bruising
• Stiffness when trying to move the knee

Symptoms in children

• Children may feel sleepy or slightly sick after anaesthesia
• They may need extra help to stay calm and comfortable
• Children usually recover quickly, but pain can be underestimated – ask the healthcare team if you are worried

Symptoms in older adults

• Older adults may become confused after anaesthesia, especially at night
• They may need more help with walking, getting to the toilet, and daily tasks
• Watch closely for dizziness or falls when they first get up

Causes

Main causes

• Osteoarthritis – the wearing away of cartilage in the knee joint
• Injuries, such as a torn ligament or torn meniscus
• Rheumatoid arthritis or other conditions that cause inflammation in the joint
• Knee pain that has not responded to conservative treatments like physiotherapy or activity changes

Risk factors

• Age – joint wear becomes more likely as you get older
• Carrying excess weight – this puts extra stress on your knees
• A previous knee injury – this can speed up joint damage
• Repetitive knee strain from sports, heavy lifting, or certain jobs

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• Call your healthcare team right away if you develop severe knee pain, a fever, or signs of infection after the procedure.
• If your knee suddenly gives way, locks, or you cannot bear weight, seek same-day care.
• If worsening redness, swelling, or pain does not improve with your prescribed pain relievers, contact a doctor.

Book a routine appointment if:

• Make an appointment if your knee pain is getting progressively worse.
• If you are considering a knee procedure, schedule a pre-operative assessment.
• Ask for a referral to a physiotherapist for guidance on exercises before and after the procedure.

Diagnosis

Before your knee procedure, your healthcare team will take your medical history, examine your knee, and usually order imaging tests. On the day of the procedure, you will be asked about your symptoms, allergies, all medicines you take, and when you last ate or drank. This is to make sure you are safe for anaesthesia and surgery.

Tests that may be done

• X-rays to look at the bones and joint space
• MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) to show ligaments, tendons, and cartilage
• Blood tests to check for infection or your overall health
• Urine test as part of the pre-operative assessment

What to expect at your appointment

You will meet your surgical team, the anaesthetist, and a nurse. They will check your blood pressure, heart rate, and weight, and answer any last-minute questions. You will be taken to a preparation area, where the surgical site may be washed and marked. You will not feel pain during the procedure because you will have anaesthesia.

Treatment

The day of your knee procedure is one part of your overall treatment plan. The procedure can be keyhole surgery through several small cuts, or open surgery such as a knee replacement. Afterwards, you will be given pain relief and a clear plan for managing your recovery at home.

Self-care at home

• Follow the fasting instructions exactly – usually no food for a certain number of hours and only clear liquids until two hours before the procedure.
• Take your usual medicines exactly as your doctor tells you, and tell them about anything you take without a prescription.
• Use crutches or a walking frame as taught by your physiotherapist.
• Ice the knee for 15–20 minutes every few hours to reduce swelling.
• Keep your leg elevated on pillows when resting.

Medical treatments

Your healthcare team may manage pain with a drip, a nerve block (an injection that numbs the knee area), or tablets taken by mouth. The right type depends on your health and the procedure you are having. They may also give you medicine to lower the risk of blood clots. Always take medicines exactly as instructed and ask if you have any concerns.

When is surgery considered?

Surgery is considered when other treatments have not controlled your knee pain and the pain stops you from doing everyday activities. Your doctor will explain why surgery is recommended and what to expect before, during, and after the operation.

Living with this condition

For the first few days after your knee procedure, plan to rest and get plenty of help. Keep your leg elevated and follow your exercise sheet. You will need someone to assist with meals, washing, and moving around safely. As the pain eases, increase your activity slowly.

Lifestyle tips

• Use handrails and non-slip mats around your home
• Remove loose rugs or cables that could cause a fall
• Put everyday items at waist height so you don’t have to bend
• Arrange help with shopping, cooking, and driving
• Set up a safe recovery area close to the toilet and phone

Diet and exercise

Eat a balanced diet with plenty of protein, fruit, vegetables, and water to help your knee heal. Avoid alcohol if you are taking pain medicines. Gentle ankle pumps, calf raises, and straight-leg raises can help prevent blood clots and keep your muscles active – follow the exercise plan from your physiotherapist.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

It is normal to feel anxious, frustrated, or low during recovery. Some pain and difficulty moving are expected. Talking to family or friends, and asking your healthcare team for guidance, can make a big difference. If you are in crisis or having thoughts of self-harm, call your local emergency number right away or ask someone to take you to emergency care. If low mood or anxiety does not pass, speak to a doctor or counsellor.

Prevention

It may not be possible to prevent needing a knee procedure, but you can protect your knees by keeping a healthy weight, staying active with low-impact exercises like swimming or cycling, and avoiding high-impact sports that put excess stress on the joint.

Vaccines

Keep your routine vaccines up to date, including seasonal flu and pneumonia vaccines, as infections are riskier after surgery. Tell your doctor about your vaccination history during your pre-operative check.

Screening programmes

There is no routine screening test for knee pain. If you have persistent knee pain, see a doctor early so you can get an accurate diagnosis and begin treatment sooner.

Complications

If left untreated

• Knee pain can get worse over time, making walking and daily activities harder.
• Joint damage may progress, leading to severe stiffness and weakness.
• Surgery may become more complex if the joint has worn down significantly.

Long-term outlook

Most people feel much better after a knee procedure. While some pain and swelling are normal in the first few weeks, most people are able to return to their usual activities with gradual recovery and rehabilitation. Be patient with your body and follow your team’s advice – the outlook is positive when you take it one step at a time.

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