Exact Answer: 4 to 6 weeks
Total Knee Replacement or TKR is a complex procedure or surgery that requires the orthopedic surgeon to accurately measure and skillfully remove the affected portions of a person’s bone to shape the remaining bone suitable for knee implants.
During the surgery, your surgeon will insert an artificial knee into your leg, one component at a time, to create a very realistic artificial joint. Knee replacement surgery is not recommended if you are under 50. Most patients undergoing total knee replacement are between the ages of 50 and 80.
Activities such as basketball, baseball, football, hockey, soccer, gymnastics, running, rock climbing, flying, skydiving, and percussion aerobics and other curricular activities should be avoided at all times post surgery.
How Long After TKR Can You Cross Your Legs?
It will take time to improve your condition after a knee replacement. However, the only thing you need to achieve is good knee mobility (flexibility).
If a person can do in about 7-10 days after a knee replacement with precautions and right exercises after surgery, they should be able to fully straighten/extend your knee and be able to bend/flex your knee at least 90 degrees at right angles.
If you get to 90 degrees in one week and continue to move forward after that, anyone can get a wide range of motion after a knee replacement. If your condition requires support and treatment post-surgery, or if you do not have the support you need at home, your doctor may recommend that you spend time in a rehabilitation or nursing facility first for you to recover fast.
There could be certain situations in which the surgeon may want to limit the weight he puts on your standing leg.
If any restrictions apply, instructions will be received by your doctors at the hospital or at home telling the patient what precautions and treatments he should go under hence you should always consult your surgeon and physician about your burden and ability to progress with assistive devices.
One of the biggest challenges in early recovery stages from TKR that takes up to 3 months after surgery is restoring knee mobility. Sitting on your knees is not a medical emergency, but regular sitting in this position can put stress on your knees and ankles. The pose also decreases blood circulation in the lower extremities.
| Activities | Time Advised |
| Sitting(Crossed-legged) | 4-6 weeks |
| Walking | 3 weeks |
| Running | 10 weeks |
Why Can You Cross Your Legs So Long After TKR?
When a person sits with their knees crossed or bent, the ligaments and muscles surrounding your knee are overstretched. It can also put pressure on the knee joint, which can cause pain and swelling after the surgery that can turn out to be really bad after some time and can cause severe knee problems and can possibly make a person cripple.
Loosening after a TKR surgery is known to be one of the most serious complications, and its pain is the most common occurrence, which can lead to fractures, instability, and serious falls therefore there might be various serious complications and almost all of them requires surgical correction.
Reduced blood flow to the area can adversely affect wound healing at the site of surgery. The muscles can weaken and atrophy if not used for too long. This is one of the most common side effects of knee replacement treatment and they begin shortly after surgery.
Sitting with your legs crossed may draw attention to the varicose veins, but this is not the cause. Crossing of the legs is also believed to lead to poor posture and consequent effects on the back, hips, and pelvis.
Failure to learn or relearn correct movements of the leg can put stress on the knee. Physical therapy after knee surgery will help you better. You can do twenty to thirty minutes of physical therapy two or three times a day. You may also have to walk for half an hour at least several times a day.
Conclusion
No matter if it has been over 40 years since a person could sit cross-legged on a chair or on the floor. If he could sit cross-legged before TKR surgery, hopefully, he can do so after TKR surgery under the doctor’s provision and observation.
Age can also be a factor, as we all lose flexibility over time. Weight can also be another factor in your inability to sit cross-legged.
Like any activity, you need to think rationally that can you do it (cross-legged) comfortably before and after your TKR?
References:
- https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s11999-009-1219-6
- https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s11999-009-0801-2
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The detailed timeline for activities post-TKR surgery is quite helpful for understanding the recovery process. It reinforces the importance of gradual progress and respecting recovery milestones.
I completely agree. Recovery is a journey, and being informed about what to expect is crucial in managing expectations.
The potential complications associated with improper post-surgery activity are concerning. Patients need to be diligent in following recovery guidelines.
The recovery timeline seems quite long, but I understand that it’s essential for proper healing and mobility. It’s crucial to be patient and not rush into activities that could cause damage or complications. Thanks for sharing this detailed information!
Thanks for the informative article. People often underestimate the importance of proper rehabilitation and healing time after TKR.
Indeed, patience and following the prescribed recovery process are key to successful outcomes. Wishing you a smooth recovery.
It’s enlightening to understand the reasons behind the specified activity restrictions. This article emphasizes the importance of taking the recovery process seriously and being mindful of possible complications.
Agreed. Recovery is not the time to take risks or overlook medical advice.
This article serves as a valuable reminder to prioritize careful recovery and not rush into activities that could impede healing.
I had no idea about the risks of sitting with legs crossed after TKR surgery. It’s essential to be fully aware of these potential complications. The recovery period may seem challenging, but it’s necessary for long-term positive outcomes.
Absolutely, it’s better to be cautious and abide by the guidelines to avoid any issues later on.
This article provides a clear explanation of the recovery process and why certain activities should be avoided post-surgery. It really emphasizes the vital role of physical therapy and following doctor’s recommendations.
This information is really helpful for my recovery. I’ve been advised to abstain from certain activities but didn’t realize how important it was to listen to this advice. Now I’m more motivated to continue my recovery and physical therapy.
That’s great to hear! Best of luck with your recovery.