Pain especially in kneecap

After the operation, there may be an effusion behind the kneecap. This effusion can then cause severe pain. Anti-inflammatory painkillers can be taken to combat the inflammation and effusion. If the kneecap (patella) is not replaced in the course of the operation, pain may persist due to unresolved osteoarthritis of the kneecap. If damage to the back surface of the patella is the cause of the pain, the patella can be replaced during another operation.

What can be done against chronic pain after knee TEP?

In order to counteract chronic pain after knee TEP, the medication plan and physiotherapy as well as rules of conduct should be strictly adhered to. However, if the pain is permanent, taking painkillers is the therapy of choice to relieve the pain. In the beginning, light painkillers belonging to the group of NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) such as ibuprofen, diclofenac, naproxen are chosen.

If these do not bring the desired effect (for stronger pain), they can be combined with opioids.Physiotherapy and physiotherapy are also part of the pain therapy. Osteopathic treatments can solve possible muscle hardening, which can also be responsible for the pain. Acupuncture has also been proven to provide relief for knee pain. Since chronic pain can be very stressful for the psyche, psychological care should be considered early on, for example to prevent or treat depression at an early stage.

What pain indicates a loosening of the knee TEP?

The affected person usually notices the loosening only when it is too late and the implant is moving in the bone. This usually causes pain, especially when the knee is loaded. Depending on how loosely the prosthesis is fitted, this pain can only be felt during sports, i.e. when the knee is subjected to heavy loads, or even when walking.

How strong is the pain after the surgery?

Immediately after the operation, there is usually no pain due to the anesthesia performed during the operation. The pain is usually strongest in the first two to three days after the operation and should subside within a week. As a rule, slight pain is still felt in the knee two to three weeks after the operation. If the pain is not limited to the knee, other underlying causes – such as vascular occlusion – should be excluded.