Why is my lower leg numb after knee replacement surgery?

This occurs because of the location of the incision for surgery and the path of the nerves in the skin. Specifically, the infrapatellar branch of the saphenous nerve travels from the inside (medial) aspect of the knee, then crosses the mid-line to the outside (lateral) portion of the knee.

How long does it take for nerves to heal after knee replacement?

It is well-known that nerve recovery after damage and nerve regeneration are both very slow processes. While full recovery of nerve sensation may be unlikely, it may take one year or longer for abnormal sensations to recover to their full potential.

Can a knee replacement cause nerve damage?

Nerve injuries, such as peroneal nerve palsy, after a total knee arthroplasty (TKA) can be a devastating complication (Nercessian et al. 2005). However, the reported incidence and the severity of nerve injuries vary—ranging from a mild transient loss of function to permanent, irreversible damage (Noordin et al. 2009).

What nerves are cut during knee replacement surgery?

Infrapatellar branch of the saphenous nerve In cadaveric studies, Mayo Clinic has found that the standard surgical incision used in total knee arthroplasty almost always severs the infrapatellar saphenous nerve. The severed nerve generally doesn’t affect the knee’s function.

How long does your leg stay numb after knee surgery?

Numbness Can Improve Most patients experience a full recovery from numbness in a day or two following surgery. Nerve damage takes longer to resolve—six months to one year after surgery is typically when recovery is considered complete and nerve damage has improved as much as is expected.

How long does the numbness last after knee surgery?

If the nerve is purely stretched, experts would suggest that the nerve should recover in 6-12 weeks. My advice, is to watch the site of numbness for signs of improvement for the first 3 months.

How do you break up scar tissue after knee replacement?

Warmth and swelling around the knee. Mild cases of arthrofibrosis may be resolved with intensive physical therapy alone. Other treatments include manipulation under anesthesia, when a physician manipulates the knee in a controlled fashion to break up the scar tissue. Surgery may also be an option for some patients.

How do you know if you have nerve damage after surgery?

The biggest symptoms of nerve damage after surgery are usually numbness, tingling, burning, or muscle weakness or atrophy. Many times nerve issues after surgery are temporary, for example, many patients have nerve problems after surgery that only last for a few weeks to months (2,3).

What is the recovery time after knee surgery?

The short-term recovery time after a knee replacement surgery spans somewhere between 6 to 12 weeks. During the first two days after the surgery, the patient is made to stand with support and is made to do a few exercises.

What are the most common causes of knee numbness?

Neurological dysfunction. Causes of knee pain related to neurological dysfunction may include the following.

How do you treat knee numbness?

Applying an ice pack on the knee can reduce inflammation that might be causing numbness. Knee numbness is easily treated in most cases. A dislocated kneecap can occur after a sudden shift in direction while running. A diagram of the knee.

What causes numbness on the side of the knee?

Bursitis can cause numbness in the knee. This condition occurs when the bursa in the knee becomes inflamed. The bursa can be found between a tendon and bone or a tendon and skin. It is a fluid-filled sac that helps to cushion the knee joint.