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Nearly every patient will experience some degree of permanent numbness on the lateral (outside) side of the knee after knee replacement surgery. This is anticipated. It is so common, most surgeons do not discuss this with their patients prior to surgery. It is not a complication, but a necessary side-effect of achieving a safe exposure to perform knee replacement surgery. What is going on? There are cutaneous (skin) nerves that cross the front of the knee from the inside (medial) to the outside (lateral). A knee replacement incision is made longitudinally over the front (anterior) of the knee. These small nerves must be cut to allow deeper exposure. Other than a numb patch on the outside of the knee, there is generally no other negative effect. Once rehabilitated, patients rarely even mention this finding. Most are just thrilled their arthritic pain is gone and they are back to their desired activities again.  Sketch of right knee viewed from the front  Sketch of right knee showing cutaneous (skin) nerve branches crossing anteriorly (in the front)  Anterior incision crosses the cutaneous nerve branches in the front of the knee  Numb patch on the lateral aspect of the knee after knee replacement surgery is common and expected
155 Comments
12/2/2019 03:38:53 pm
Thanks for the information about the nerves in my knee. You showed me how they run across my knee and how making a insicion for knee surgery cuts them so explaining the numbness on the outside part of my knee insicion. Thanks 12/2/2019 03:41:55 pm
This question comes up quite frequently. I am glad you found my explanation helpful!
Josephine peros
7/19/2020 09:06:10 am
Will the numbness disappear over time 7/26/2020 08:59:43 am
@Josephine Peros - Most people report the numbness improves over time, but I would not expect it to completely resolve. 1/12/2022 07:24:22 am
Thanks SO much especially for the drawings!! Any other tidbits? Like why it might still buckle 1/22/2022 01:28:09 pm
@Lucille
Gary Tondorfdick
5/24/2022 10:02:34 pm
Hi Dr. Gorczynski,
Stephanie Cox
7/18/2021 10:47:28 pm
I had a total knee replacement in my right knee. I have numbness on the inside of my leg from the bend of my knee to right above my ankle. However it’s just on the left. I’m post op 6 weeks. I’m recovering well. When my leg swells from sitting to long the numbness gets worse… I’m worried it won’t ever go away. 7/28/2021 08:42:45 pm
This sounds like the numbness is within the saphenous nerve distribution. This is unusual. If you had severe varus malalignment (bowleggedness) preoperatively that was corrected at the time of surgery, this nerve could have been stretched and may recover with time. I recommend you discuss this situation with your surgeon.
LeeRoy salinas
1/10/2022 08:43:36 am
Thank you for the info. 2/8/2020 06:20:38 pm
You're welcome. It is nice when things make sense. 2/8/2020 06:24:26 pm
As you read in the preceding article, numbness is not only common, but it is an expected, unavoidable issue based on the anatomy.
Randy Lara
12/4/2020 06:19:36 pm
I recently had knee replacement on Oct 28,2020. Im having numbness in my left foot and toes and my left hand. Im also not abke to bend my knee completely back.Its stiff.In therapy im abke to complete all required task just not the bending of the knee. 12/7/2020 08:55:54 pm
I can not relate hand numbness to your knee replacement, other than perhaps if an IV was placed into your hand during the surgery? It is not normal to experience numbness in your foot either. This needs to be evaluated by your surgeon ASAP.
Lynda
5/17/2020 12:39:21 am
I want
Sandy
9/29/2020 11:04:31 am
I needed to read this. I am just shy of 10 weeks post TKTS and also considering myself in the failed group. I have very good ROM but swelling and pretty severe tightness. Hoping for better days ahead. 9/29/2020 07:27:26 pm
In my experience, 10 weeks post-op is too soon to give up. Spend time stretching every day as I describe throughout this website. Use ice/anti-inflammatory medications, if you can tolerate them. Be confident that your body will heal, and with time the inflammation, swelling, and pain will subside. The odds are dramatically in your favor.
Julie Moore
7/8/2022 11:26:57 pm
I had both knees done at the same time. I have severe panic disorder and couldn't contemplate doing it all twice. Having both at once proved to be a very good option for me. I did have a longer hospital stay with 2- 7 days total. I never had swelling and had very little pain. I had the Iovera treatment the week before. 5/15/2021 03:57:36 am
Hi Lisa - thanks for your question, my knee sounds like we could be twins - still swollen-large numb spot. Im 5 weeks out since my TKR have still have pain. It sure does get frustrating, doesnt it!!!!! I wish the recovery time and symptoms would have been explained more in detail before the surgery. Get well soon :) 5/26/2021 10:30:36 pm
The purpose of this website is to provide as much information and support to patients considering/recovering from common orthopedic operations. 6/7/2021 04:59:45 pm
Found this forum, so great!!
H higginson
12/16/2021 01:30:06 pm
I had mine done 9 weeks I'm walking very well numbness on my knee no pain from operation
Judy
12/20/2022 12:33:48 am
Hi. I’m sorry to say but I had a TKR 4 years ago and my knee is still numb on outside of my knee across the front knee cap and partial down front of leg about 25 cm. It’s very annoying and have had MRI that showed everything is where it should be. I’m very worried cause I need my other knee done next year and I really don’t think I could put up with two numb knees with numbness. My surgeon did say they now cut further over not central anymore to prevent this. 1/16/2023 11:50:01 am
It is normal and anticipated for numbness to occur lateral to any anterior knee incision. It's possible that moving the incision slightly medial could help, but I would not count on that. It is also normal for the numbness to be persistent. I am sorry you are so annoyed by this- unfortunately it is anatomically based and unavoidable. Some get it worse than others. Most patients feel the trade-off is definitely worth it.
Anthony J.
3/24/2020 10:26:28 am
Is there anything I can do to help in recovering from this numbness? Like for instance massaging the area, applying heat or cold? Or am I just going to have to get used to it? 3/24/2020 04:28:05 pm
Gentle massage is fine, but you will gradually get used to it with time.
Carol
6/14/2020 09:56:11 am
I understand the numbness is to be expected, but when we walk the numbness starts at the outside of the knee and is all the way up the thigh by the time we get back after 2 miles. It will be 2 years the end of July since tkr. Is this normal? Range of motion is normal with other leg this is my biggest complaint. Thanks for advice. 6/26/2020 07:06:04 am
If you have increasing numbness in your thigh with walking, I would be concerned about spinal stenosis. This is where the nerves in your back become pinched as the spinal canal gradually squeezes down over decades. This is typically made worse with walking or standing and better when you sit. I recommend you get checked out by an orthopedic surgeon. Your history is classic for this diagnosis. 6/27/2020 11:21:59 pm
I still have numbness of my knee after 2 years & 2 month now and pain of my knee replacement what will I do to take care of my knee replavements .....reply nenalinda0216@yahoo.com thank you 6/28/2020 12:55:36 am
As I illustrated in this article, a numb patch on the lateral aspect of the knee is normal and anticipated after knee replacement surgery. It is usually permanent, though it often becomes less obvious over time as your brain adjusts to the new normal. This does not require treatment, and does not indicate a problem. If you are having pain, you should be evaluated by an orthopedic surgeon with a physical examination and x-rays.
Ann conroy
1/30/2021 03:41:14 pm
Hi I had a half knee replacement 6 months while I’d very little pain and I can walk for miles I find I can’t knee down on the knee
Peggy Aiello
7/7/2020 09:17:24 pm
My knee replacement has been 2 years and 3 months. I’ve lived with the numbness around my knee, but recently slipped and landed on that knee. I’ve noticed that now, if I’m on my feet for awhile, I get numbness on the outside of my thigh just above that knee. I only skinned m6 knee and there was minor swelling under the abrasion. Is this a cause for worry? 7/26/2020 09:03:03 am
New numbness that develops after trauma should be investigated if it does not rapidly improve. From your description- I would be more concerned about an injury to your back as opposed to an injury to your knee replacement. Either way- if not improving, it should be evaluated by an orthopedic surgeon.
CAROL S LUTZ
7/22/2020 08:06:34 am
I understand the numbness issue now. Thank you for the enlightenment. However I am having pain down the outside of my knee that radiates towards the front or shin area. With some motions the pain increases and makes my leg feel unstable. Should I go see my surgeon about this? 7/26/2020 08:57:51 am
Pain is common while rehabilitating a knee replacement. You do not indicate how recently your knee was replaced. It is not normal to experience ongoing or worsening pain, and certainly not instability. If this is happening, then yes, I would recommend discussing this with your surgeon.
Wendi Kiss
3/10/2021 04:29:51 pm
I am 3.5 months post op. At 9 weeks i was able to walk around bl9ck with walking poles.. my range was better than expected. ALOT OF WORK AND TEARS. I have had much swelling still. The past week now i have sharp pain where the lateral numb spot is that shoots acroos my knee and also into my shin. This started after trying to do squats the first time and now its diddicult to weight bare. I have gone back to basic range excercises the past week. Very swollen. Went to my surgeon but only get students. He said my knee felt stable and just coast for awhile. No strenghthening excercises. They also did blood work to rule out infection. This is very disheartening as I cant walk anywhere now. And it doesnt feel any different no matter what i do. Help? 3/12/2021 02:11:59 pm
@Wendi Kiss if you are not able to bear weight at 3.5 months postop, you need x-rays, and perhaps an MRI to rule out stress fracture. Ruling out infection is important as well. Beyond this, I think you need to see your surgeon or get a second opinion. What you report is not typical.
Sharon
7/29/2020 01:50:44 am
I rarely, very rarely comment on all the pre/post procedure info I research online but I want to thank you for your clear and concise explanation for my post tkr numbness. My surgeon was excellent, my pt has raved about his skill with my recovery. But all of the info I have found to explain my numbness (although all say it is normal) didn’t explain the why. Thank you for the simple diagram. Simple but clear. My surgeon did a fantastic job fitting my replacement, pretty much no “pain” except for week 2 due to a lupus flair and forgetting my pain meds :( But the numbness was my concern. Keep posting please. I have read your other posts and they were also helpful especially the range of motion stretching. Behind the chair was a good one! At 122degrees at 7 weeks but striving for 130. Hope this is not unreasonable. 8/24/2020 08:48:28 pm
I am glad you find this website helpful. Looks like you are rehabilitating your knee replacement quite well. I hope by this point you have achieved your goal of 130 degrees flexion.
Terry
8/9/2020 11:53:30 pm
I'm 1 year in having my tkr and I still have numbness but I can deal with that Thanks for the helpful information my problem is that I have been to pt did all the exercises and my knee still not to a full bend and I still deal with some pain as well please tell me what's the next step my doctor says it's because of keloid skin tissue but I'm thinking it could be something else 8/14/2020 05:48:27 am
The majority of patients are not able to "fully flex" their knee following knee replacement. This is not typically due to the prosthesis or their surgeon, but by their ability to rehabilitate. Throughout this website, I describe why rehabilitation is challenging, and I provide guidance to help facilitate an optimal rehabilitation course.
Jeanne
8/15/2020 10:37:14 pm
I had a TKR 10 months ago @age 59. My knee is still numb over quite a large area on the lateral part of my knee. The knee is warm to the touch constantly. I was unable to tolerate any pain medication, so recovery and rehab has been difficult, but I continue to do everything I have been instructed to do. The pain starts on the lateral part of my knee and travels down to my ankle where there is swelling above my ankle ( like a large egg). I’m concerned it’s been going on for so long and nothing is changing. My surgeon has stated the X-ray of the prosthetic looks fine, but is not concerned with all the other issues. Between June and July my PCP gave me two shots of cortisone in my knee for pain...no results. I have since gone back to a different PT in the hopes that I will have some relief with a new set of eyes. Could this be nerve damage? My lower back around L4 has been painful also since the surgery. I would appreciate any advice or direction you can offer. I’m feeling discouraged for I thought these issues would have lessened by now. With gratitude and appreciation. 8/24/2020 08:52:32 pm
Your history is definitely suggestive of an L4-L5 radiculopathy. This would cause radiating pain from your back down to your ankle. While it would not cause your ankle to swell, it would be consistent with getting no relief from a knee cortisone injection. While it is impossible for me to say for sure, perhaps further evaluation of your back using an MRI scan would be appropriate at this point. 3/14/2022 07:07:42 pm
I have been recovering from a left TKR which is 11 months now. I have the exact same symptoms that you have described. I even have ankle pain where I have to wear an elastic sock as an ankle brace. My range is good I still have slight swelling on the outside of the knee cap about the size of a quarter. The numbness runs from my knee down to the outside of my outer ankle. Riding my bike seems to help along with stretching. I live in Michigan and noticed the cold Winter weather made the knee have more discomfort. I have a massage therapist that has worked wonders on keeping me sane! Lol.. hopefully with the warmer weather I’m praying and hoping more activity will help my new knee.. good luck to everyone in their recovery… Richard 😊👍🏼 4/9/2022 07:22:47 pm
Do be clear, I am not suggesting that numbness running from your knee to your ankle is normal after knee replacement. Generally this is only a small patch just lateral to the incision.
Lisa Lefevre
8/21/2020 03:07:06 pm
I am 5 weeks out of my surgery. I haven't been going to rehab three times a week working hard I am stretching very well pain was going away but all of a sudden I got this severe pain on the side of my knee left side and my therapist at rehab said it probably was my nerves growing back what truth . 8/24/2020 08:46:05 pm
This is not a typical experience. Nerves do not suddenly "grow back." If they are going to recover, this is a gradual process. You do not mention which knee you had replaced, and therefore I do not know what the "left" side refers to. The typical numb patch is on the outside or lateral to the incision. While pain is not unusual during total knee rehabilitation, this is generally not considered sudden, or sharp. Any sharp pain that happens suddenly around a knee replacement, and does not rapidly resolve, should be evaluated by your surgeon.
Gina Mars
8/22/2020 01:24:37 pm
Hi, I have a question, I’m 3 years out of a partial inner knee replacement right knee. I tore the meniscus in my inner left knee a few months ago. I’m getting it fixed Monday. However I have developed terrible pain on the outer right knee where it gets numb. It is painful most of the time and it’s a searing pain. Sometimes goes away after resting for hours. The doctor says it’s probably the it band from overcompensating. It’s now starting on my outer right knee. What advice can you offer. I’m miserable 8/24/2020 09:05:43 pm
While it could definitely be your iliotibial band (IT band), it is also possible to develop arthritis in the outside compartment of your knee when the medial compartment has undergone partial replacement. Standing X-rays would reveal this. If there is not a conclusive finding on x-ray, and your pain remains severe, I would then recommend an MRI scan with MARS sequencing. This is a metal artifact reducing technique that coincidentally shares your name. A lateral meniscal tear would also be a diagnosis to consider and would be seen on this MRI study.
Lynnett Ivy
8/29/2020 02:26:35 pm
On June 2, 2020 9/3/2020 05:11:34 pm
It is definitely feasible to squat and/or kneel. Some patients do not like how it feels, but there is minimal risk in doing so.
Chris Frederick
8/31/2020 10:29:46 am
I had a total knee replacement done on my right knee 3 weeks ago which is healing quite nicely. Thank you for the explanation of the numbness I am experiencing on the outside of the incision. However, on the inside of the incision, from about the bottom of the knee cap to the bottom of the scar, even the lightest touch to the skin produces excruciating pain, like a burning sensation. This pain is only on the skin and only in this localized area on the inside of the scar. In bed, just a sheet touching this area results in horrible pain. As an experiment, I gently rubbed lidocaine on this area, and the pain disappeared, but of course, came back when the lidoncaine wore off. Have you seen this before, or do you have any idea what could be causing this? 9/3/2020 04:50:55 pm
The surgical approach usually is on the medial side of the patella (kneecap). More soft tissue stripping along the medial aspect of the proximal tibia is also necessary in many knees (particularly when correcting a varus (bow-legged) knee. This is probably why the inside aspect of your knee is more sensitive right now. If there is increasing redness, or increasing swelling, your surgeon needs to take a look, otherwise, I would expect this sensitivity to diminish with time. 9/7/2020 12:17:15 pm
I had a TKR a year and a half ago. I had to have a clean out and plastic component replaced a month after initial surgery due to infection. My question has to do with my scar. Above my knee looks like a big chunk of flesh was removed. It's really dented in. Is this to be expected due to reopening of the knee? 9/13/2020 10:17:39 am
I would not consider this "normal." But, with the context you provided (infection requiring another surgery) it is certainly not unreasonable. It sounds like some tissue was removed (excised/debrided) at the time of your subsequent surgery. Any infected tissue must not be left behind. This may explain the "dent."
Cathey Duplissey
9/13/2020 10:55:46 am
Thank you for responding to my question. That makes sense.
Elle Gee
6/12/2021 01:06:54 pm
I have the same issue- a very large (I can put the end of my thumb in) dent just above my knee cap on my right leg after TKR (8 months out), and I had no infection. What causes this, and should I see my ortho? Also, I have a large (and growing) hard knot/band across my knee just below the knee cap that is more pronounced when I bend it (so pronounced it looks a bit like an elongated egg). My PA and ortho say it’s just scar tissue and typical, but my PT says she’s never seen anything like it nor have any other PTs I’ve asked (my family has PTs). I worry that this will keep me from having full extension and from kneeling. It’s very sensitive to pressure. Thank you! 6/23/2021 08:58:04 pm
@Elle Gee 9/17/2020 11:21:44 pm
I had total knee replacement surgery to left knee on August 28th of this year. I guess recovery is going well but kinda of upset that I was not informed about this permanent nerve damage causing the numb and uncomfortable feeling of the knee. Having problems getting comfortable to go to sleep. I am supposed to have same procedure on right knee on October 20th. Not sure I will go through with it due to not wanting the same feeling in both knees. I questioned the Surgeon on this issue at my post op appointment today as I read up on this 2 days ago. Asked why not informed or given any reading material on this prior. Response was not a quality of life issue so they don't inform there patients prior or after surgery unless asked. If this does not improve some I will wish i had not done this and just kept getting injections and sucked it up. My age is 52. 9/20/2020 02:42:16 pm
Most surgeons don't even discuss this numbness as it is unavoidable and tends not to bother patients very much, if at all. 9/24/2020 10:14:48 am
How long is the numbness expected to last. Mine has been there for 6 months now. Will it ever go away? 9/24/2020 07:02:24 pm
While the numbness is permanent, and an unavoidable aspect of knee replacement surgery (and any other knee operation that involves an anterior longitudinal incision), your awareness of this will decrease significantly as time goes on. I recommend gently touching the numb patch with your fingers, and with different textures while looking at the area. Your brain will gradually consider this strange feeling relatively normal again. While it can be surprising to some patients early after surgery, long-term it rarely presents much of an issue. The vast majority of patients consider this a small trade-off in return for the dramatically improved quality of life that follows knee replacement surgery.
Enid M. Natkins
10/23/2020 10:25:51 am
Just to commiserate with you, it will be a year since my right knee total replacement and I still have a lot of numbness on the outside of the right side of my knee. The knee definitely doesn't feel like a normal knee. I do have less pain than I used to have and going up and down stairs gives me no pain as it did before.
Debbie Anderson
9/28/2020 07:32:56 pm
I would also like to thank you for the informative explanation of the numbness experienced after TKR. I am 5 weeks out from a right knee replacement. PT going very well, but wanted to ask why I might be experiencing a tight band feeling over my entire knee area. It is much more annoying than the numbness on the outside of my knee. Hoping it goes away soon. Thanks in advance for any explanation. 9/28/2020 09:23:18 pm
I am glad you found this helpful. Rather than go into great detail about knee stiffness, I will direct you to another page in this website where I explain why knees feel stiff after knee replacement surgery, and how to successfully rehabilitate.
David kolosky
10/29/2020 11:41:53 am
I had both knees replaced August 25th 2020 experience the same numbness I have 125 degree Bend still experiencing trouble sleeping after reading your articles I think I'm very happy with my results having both knees done was how can I say very difficult for the first 2 months thank you so much for the information I feel a lot better
mdm Zana
11/3/2020 10:20:28 pm
Wow! i got so much useful info.from yr write up n the Q&A...i m 58 n had Tkr on my right knee on oct9th. recently. my knee seems to be doing alright post op n I ve been going for rehab frequently..However i m suffering drop foot post op n after a nerve study..the finding was a complete denervation of a branch of the peroneal nerve ..how common is this complication n if it can be repaired by a neurosurgeon for me to gain back dorsi flexion of my right foot..tq 11/8/2020 08:03:33 pm
Thankfully this is an uncommon complication. The risk is highest when a patient presents with a valgus knee (knock-kneed) with a flexion contracture (inability to fully extend) before surgery. When these deformities are corrected during surgery, this nerve will be stretched. In the vast majority of cases, the nerve can withstand this correction. While I am not sure if this was the case with your knee, it nonetheless happened. There is a chance of spontaneous recovery. Unless the nerve was actually severed (which is extraordinarily rare) I doubt a neurosurgeon can "repair" the nerve. There is a chance it could be decompressed (like we do for carpal tunnel syndrome). There is a small brace that can be used inside shoewear in cases of persistent foot drop that can help minimize any functional impairment.
Elaine McBane
11/28/2020 05:04:30 pm
I retain fluid at any time..Right leg TKR and the outside of my knee is swelling and pains at night...(Oct 28). hot..is this normal 12/7/2020 08:24:46 pm
At a month or so from surgery- it is normal for your knee to feel warm and swollen. Some pain is also to be expected. If you have significant fluid retention, worsening pain and/or redness- it should be evaluated by your surgeon.
Elaine McBane
2/5/2021 09:50:13 am
HI 11/29/2020 04:13:00 pm
I am 5 week post ops to left knee total replacement and I was wondering is it normal for me to experience the following. 12/7/2020 08:40:28 pm
Tightness, pain and swelling are normal early after knee replacement.
Maureen Golupski
12/3/2020 09:07:40 am
I am 55 yes old and had double knee replacement October 2, 2020. I was up walking the same day four times. I have to say the hardest part about the double knee replacement was the inability to sleep from five weeks to 9 weeks out. I had to ask for a sleep aid because of the pain of healing and restless legs had me up every half an hour to an hour every night. I am in my ninth week now and I’m starting to feel more rested, confident and experiencing less jolting pain. 12/7/2020 08:52:34 pm
Glad to hear you are doing well! Keep up the good work. I would expect you to experience ongoing improvement for many months yet to come.
Jo Ann Ennis
12/19/2020 04:29:10 pm
I had three 2 years ago. Have the numbness but also still have sharp pains down my shin bone. I notice this more at night because the pain wakes me up. Would this be still related to tkr? 12/22/2020 11:14:26 pm
While anything is possible, shin pain is not a typical complaint following knee replacement, particularly years later. This should probably be evaluated by your orthopedic surgeon. The differential diagnosis would include stress reaction/stress fracture/lumbar radiculopathy (pinched nerve).
LONNIE GUNDERSON
1/7/2021 07:42:09 am
I had total knee replacement 18 months ago, i still get swollen on a daily basis and i am numb all around the outside of my knee, is this normal? Im 60 years old, and had two knee scopes before full knee replacement ( work comp case) and what degree would you normally rate i should be at percentage wise for disability? i live in wisconsin. Thanks 1/7/2021 08:34:14 pm
As explained in this preceding article, numbness lateral to the knee incision is totally normal and unavoidable. If Wisconsin worker's compensation guidelines are similar to those in New York, a typical, well rehabilitated knee replacement results in a 35-50% loss of use of the leg due to removal of bone, and less than normal range of motion at the knee. This would be the case even with a well-rehabilitated, pain-free knee replacement.
Lillian C.
2/4/2021 10:51:02 pm
I have had a replacement surgery done on my right knee since sept. 2020. 2/4/2021 11:06:04 pm
As I explained, numbness lateral to the incision is normal and expected. This is not the cause of your stiffness. Stiffness is most commonly a result of suboptimal rehabilitation. Check out my other articles explaining how I recommend stretching. If you are losing ground, I recommend you schedule a follow-up visit with your surgeon. You are far enough out from surgery at this point that I would expect you to be feeling quite well.
Brian Webster
2/14/2021 06:03:51 am
My replacement knee joints are now 15 years old & have served me great for long walks & cycling Im now 81 & still fit I eat healthly dont drink alcohol never smoked now I cant walk far both joints are stiff & my legs go numb from my knee to my foot any advise please 2/14/2021 10:34:21 am
I would recommend having your orthopedic surgeon check out your back. Numbness down your legs when walking or standing typically is due to nerves being pinched in your lumbar spine.
Creena Messer
3/20/2021 07:37:31 pm
Hi! 3/28/2021 11:30:43 am
As described in the article above, this is not unexpected. This will gradually improve with time, but will always like be a bit numb in that area.
Sandra Tegge
3/27/2021 02:32:22 pm
I had BTKR more than 13 years ago. I have had numbness on the lateral side of both knees as expected. Over the past several months I have noticed the numbness extending approximately 4 inches above my left knee both on the lateral and anterior sides. I have not noticed a change in my ROM. Is this something I should be concerned about? 3/28/2021 11:14:04 am
There is no anatomic reason that your numb patch would expand over time. If concerned, your surgeon should check this out for you. My first impression is that it could be coming from your back.
Kathy
5/28/2021 01:15:11 am
I had TNR done 3 weeks ago and a big golf ball sized lump came up on the lateral side (along with the numb patch). When I went for my first post op I showed the surgeon and he said they did a lateral release to straighten my leg and thus swelling will go down. A week later that lump was still very swollen as well as now red and warm. I am now on an antibiotic as precaution but he still says the swelling will go down. It is very hard to do PT as my knee is do right from this extra swelling. Have you heard of anything like this? I can’t find anything online and am trying hard to trust my surgeon. 6/23/2021 10:36:35 pm
A lateral release means the soft tissues (retinaculum) on the outside of your knee (between your patella and femur) were cut to help your patella track properly. Blood/fluid that normal would have accumulated inside your knee joint was then able to move through that defect to the area just below your skin. That was the swelling. Ice and anti-inflammatory medication should help in addition to time. Try your best to push through PT and a home stretching regimen to avoid stiffness. This should not be a long-term problem.
Kathy Rexrode
6/24/2021 11:59:07 am
Thank you for the reply. Since this post - now 7 weeks out - in the same area where the release happened the swelling has come down some but not completely but I’m having some “locking” and pain when I bend the knee and then try to bring it back down flat. Do you think the swelling and tissue that was cut might be getting stuck in the joint and causing the locking and pain? I go back for recheck in 2 more months. 6/28/2021 12:45:09 pm
I doubt the lateral release is allowing tissue to get caught in your knee. There is not generally tissue floating around after this. It does sound like your surgeon had some difficulty getting your patella to track properly, this is why the release was necessary. For now, it is probably just part of the healing process. There is tension on the lateral tissues that is worse in flexion, this could then feel a bit worse after deep flexion stretching. I would keep stretching, using ice on the sore areas, and count on your body to continue healing for many more months.
Ajay
6/1/2021 08:56:11 am
Very well explained. My mother-in-law has been operated 8 weeks back. She is having numbness, pain and tightness of skin of toe and nearby area. Knee pain and movement is ok. But this pain in right toe is creating the problem. Can nerve for toe be pinched during knee replacement surgery? What is solution? 6/23/2021 10:18:33 pm
It is very unlikely that a toe nerve would be injured during knee replacement surgery. I recommend follow-up with her surgeon for further evaluation.
Patricia Goellner
6/3/2021 10:16:05 pm
Had tkr 6 months ago . Numbness is my only side effect. I have done yoga for 25 yrs but finding I'm falling out of poses. Very frustrating. Any suggestiins? 6/23/2021 09:07:56 pm
I don't understand your question. Are you fatiguing early so you can not hold a pose? Are you having pain or inadequate range of motion that limits your ability to maintain a pose? A bit more information would help me to help you.
Barb Furr
6/24/2021 06:13:30 pm
It’s been almost 17 months since my TKR. I had to go on Disability Retirement since I do not have full functionality of my knee (I was a Corrections Nurse). I have a lot of stiffness & IT band pain. Is there anything that can be done? 6/28/2021 12:40:32 pm
This is not a typical outcome following knee replacement surgery. I recommend followup with your surgeon for examination/x-rays/labs to help understand why you have an inferior result.
Leslie
8/20/2021 09:58:58 am
Thanks for this. Your explanation is helpful and comforting.
Lesley Hughes
8/28/2021 08:23:47 pm
I’ve had 4 operations meniscus repair, osteotomy ,plate removal and a new knee 12th July 2021In one leg in 6 years . 7 weeks after op now after having cellulitis and my wound taking 6 weeks to heal . Now in a lot of pain but still rigorously following my physio therapy and my knee is still very swollen. My consultant has said it will be painful for some time . Feeling pretty low at the moment. Just want reassurance to give me motivation to keep going 9/1/2021 03:22:57 am
Having undergone multiple prior operations does increase the chance of an infection following knee replacement surgery. It is fairly common to still experience pain and swelling at this stage following surgery, but if pain and swelling remain significant, it is important to rule out ongoing infection. Assuming there is no infection, I agree with your surgeon, that pain and swelling should gradually diminish for up to an entire year following surgery. It is crucial to regain adequate range of motion in your knee by stretching on a daily basis. Best of luck to you!
Diana Walters
9/8/2021 06:33:02 am
Thanks so much for the information! As an OB RN and former ORRN, I had no idea how to take care of myself after my partial knee replacement. I had it done as an outpatient on 9/7/21 as a 0700 case and was home by 1600. 9/13/2021 10:05:55 pm
My knee replacement was done 3 years ago. I have the numbness on my outer right knee that hasn't went away yet. I went to a nerve doctor for the nerve test. I had surgery with the needle in my spine she thought it was because I have spinal stenosis in my back she thought the numbness was coming from there. But no relief. So what do I do now. 10/5/2021 03:43:53 pm
Numbness on the outside of your knee is normal, and expected following total knee replacement. It will always be present. It does not require any further evaluation or treatment. 9/17/2021 02:25:38 pm
helpful site. I too didn't realize how painful the recovery was going to be and I am only 3 weeks in. I am not sure when to go onto a cane instead of the walker. I know everyone is different but an estimated expectancy would be helpful.thanks . 10/5/2021 03:37:40 pm
Usually your physical therapist can help you decide when it is safe to discontinue assistive devices. It is not appropriate for me to arbitrarily tell you when to do so, since there is so much individual variation. I will say many patient no longer require a walker by 2 weeks from surgery and very few patient still use a cane by 6 weeks. Remember- everyone is different, with unique balance, strength, coordination, and confidence. This is not a race. The most important thing is to avoid falling.
Chrissy Lesdow
9/22/2021 12:51:04 pm
It has been 9 months since my TKR I still have numbness on the outer knee. My question is instead of the numbness patch getting smaller it’s seems to be getting larger and now traveling down below the knee to the outer shin area is this normal.? It’s really uncomfortable weather standing or sitting 10/5/2021 03:30:28 pm
It is not typical for the normal "numb patch" to expand with time. Usually it becomes less obvious as your brain "gets used to it."
Liz Wiederhold
9/28/2021 10:02:28 am
I am 4 weeks post-op on TKR right knee. I have the lateral numbness as described. But, I have medial numbness and odd sensitivity down the inside of leg from about the mid knee area to my ankle. Sensations are wacky there. While numb in some ways, the whole area is also hypersensitive to touch by a blanket or clothing and prickles or almost feels burning to touch. The saphenous nerve seems likely based on one of your earlier answers. If ortho surgeon is disinterested in discussing, what type of doc do I consult? This is not a liveable scenario long term. 10/5/2021 03:27:51 pm
This is not the normal numbness I describe above. I agree that it sounds like your saphenous nerve has been irritated. I think the best bet is to have a physical therapist help you with desensitization therapy. Maybe your surgeon can prescribe this treatment for you?
Steve Brockenshaw
10/5/2021 04:10:33 pm
Hi, 10/5/2021 08:35:24 pm
Most unicondylar replacements are of the medial (inside) part of the knee. They involve replacing both the femoral and tibial joint surfaces. Your bowleggedness suggests this was the case for you. It is definitely possible that the lateral pain you were experiencing was due to stretch of the soft tissues. Assuming there was some correction of the bowleggedness during your surgery, I would expect the lateral sided pain to gradually resolve over the next 6-12 weeks or so. While all pain is transmitted by nerve fibers, and thus all pain is really "nerve pain," Arthritis pain can result from an effusion (excess fluid in the joint) that stretches the joint capsule, synovitis (inflammation of the joint lining), bone bruising due to inadequate cushioning, or soft tissue overload (in your case presumably overstretching the lateral soft tissues). In general, I hesitate to offer unicondylar replacement to patients who do not point directly to the arthritic compartment as the site of their pain, as I feel outcomes are most predictable when pain emanates from the arthritic compartment that is going to be resurfaced.
Jim
11/15/2021 06:31:37 pm
I’m just shy of 3 weeks from recovering from TKR. I only took pain meds for the first 4 days. The excruciating pain of standing up and having all the blood rush to veins is gone after 12 days. The stiffness and tight quads are way better. I’m at 2 degrees from straight and at 105 degrees bent. Not sure what goal should be as my other knee also needing to be replaced can only go to 122 degrees. I can walk without cane around the house but anything with distance like over 20 yards or so I feel safer with cane. 12/16/2021 04:23:38 pm
While the numbness is likely to persist, it is very rare for patients to care much about it long-term. It is probably more concerning right now since it is new. As your brain gradually adjusts to this it will become the new normal and much less distracting. To a certain extent, I believe other nerves may be somewhat "unregulated" meaning the degree of numbness may improve a bit.
Jo
12/21/2021 12:28:32 am
I am 5 months post TKR on right knee. Thank you for explaining numbness on outside of knee. My issue I'm concerned about is that on the right side of the bottom of my right foot is numb all the way up to the little toe. Do you think this is permenate nerve damage? 12/29/2021 08:49:00 am
Foot numbness is very unlikely to come from your knee. I would encourage investigation into a pinched nerve in your back. (Lumbar radiculopathy) This is a common and potentially reversible condition. I am just glad I found your site, I had total knee replacement September 15,2021, I was going bonkers not understanding these odd feelings in and around my knee and leg. After reading all the comments I feel better, I do have an appointment after Christmas to see a spine doctor because I cannot sit long or walk a lot without that whole leg feeling numb and uncomfortable. I also wish the doctors prepare patients for this to be like this always because some people have a hard time adjusting to this new feeling of weirdness after TKR. Being more upfront would help a lot because I went from being angry having this surgery, to hating my new knee, to be alittle depressed, so I am glad I found and read your site.
Brownell
1/11/2022 11:08:43 pm
I had a TKR 11-5-21. I still have a lot of numbness on the outside and around the knee. I have never had any pain and have great range bend. I have this popping on the outside of my knee. You can feel it and hear it? That is so annoying. The numbness is really bothering me. How long will this last and what would the popping be! 1/22/2022 01:39:57 pm
The numbness is likely to be permanent. Popping is not normal following knee replacement surgery, and should be evaluated in your surgeon's office.
Anoma
1/12/2022 02:11:23 pm
This information is very useful to cope with different stages of TKR.This my sixth month after surgery. I have numbness in the thigh on the operated knee. This happens after standing after a long time . This seems to be better after about 5 mts after siiting down. I explained this to an orthopedic surgeon and he said the numbness should never happen in the thigh and advised me to see my GP. Iam very confused reading all the reviews. Thank you so much for your valuable advice. Deeply apprecIated.. 1/22/2022 01:22:34 pm
A numb patch on the lateral side of the incision is totally normal. Thigh numbness is not normal. Numbness that occurs when standing that improves when sitting usually indicates the problem is emanating from your lumbar spine, specifically lumbar stenosis. This can be treated with PT, injections, and sometimes surgery as a last resort.
Andrea Wine Cansfield
2/18/2022 06:33:24 am
I am so thankful I found this discussion! I am 5 weeks post-op and though I seldom have severe pain now, my knee swells a lot after my PT sessions and becomes achey and can throb. I am drinking a lot of water, getting up every hour to move, icing 3-4 times a day, and doing my exercises every day. My surgeon told me I’d be back to work in 3-6 weeks since I’m such a healthy person. However, I have been panicking because there is no way I can go back to my job in education next week based on my daily tasks. I spoke with my physical therapist yesterday and she was shocked the surgeon told me that. She calmed my fears and said they wouldn’t be clearing me. The surgeon should’ve told me approximately 12 weeks. Having the correct expectations for recovery are huge - I’ve gone from feeling a failure and very sad and worried to “I’ve got this!” 2/26/2022 03:00:22 pm
Swelling at this stage is generally normal. It is also normal to experience some degree of discomfort, sometimes for up to 3 months or more following surgery. The trend should be steadily downward, however. It sounds like you are recovering at a normal pace.
Rosemary Obrien
3/13/2022 07:55:55 pm
Question. Years after total knee replacement both knees, the numbness is getting worse. Any on-site as to what May be the cause? 4/9/2022 07:19:28 pm
I would not expect the numbness I describe (lateral to the knee incision) to get worse over time. It usually improves somewhat. If you are having numbness down into your legs, I would recommend you have a doctor check out your lumbar spine for central canal or neuroforaminal stenosis.
David H
3/15/2022 05:02:20 pm
I appreciate the article and all the informative responses. I had a partial knee replacement over three years ago but the lateral numbness still drives me crazy. The skin is hypersensitive and feels like electric shock when touched. 4/9/2022 07:27:43 pm
It is rare for a patient to be so bothered by this numb patch. I only wrote about it, so patients aren't surprised by it. Perhaps you should consider treatment by a pain management specialist. If they can localize the irritated nerve, perhaps they can ablate it using radio-frequency.
Richard J. Coleman
3/26/2022 08:03:54 am
I had a TKR on my right knee 11 months ago, and I am mostly satisfied with the outcome except for a few things: I have numbness on the lateral side of my knee which I thought would go away, but after reading this now realize it will not. I was not told about this before surgery but it likely would not have changed my mind about having the surgery because I just wanted the pain gone. It is only annoying if I focus on it. I had some significant back pain for about four months which has now gone away. I have a strange popping or clicking sensation in the knee which I also understand is normal, but it seems to come and go so I have learned to just ignore it. The important thing is, other than that related to the surgery, my knee pain is completely gone. Is the outcome perfect and what I expected? Probably not, but I am still glad I had it done.
Risa Powell
5/24/2022 11:22:34 pm
Hello, I just came across this post. I have an unusual question. I had a TKR 3 years ago and had no complaints at all… unfortunately, I have injured the knee that I had the replacement in, I landed on it extremely hard and ever since then ( 4 months ago) have had numbness in my entire leg and as well have numbness in my foot. Did not injure the implant just parts around it. Not sure of next steps. Would appreciate your thoughts.. Thanks so much! 6/29/2022 12:34:07 pm
If this problem persists, it sounds like you may have irritated a nerve in your back. Your orthopedic surgeon can do an examination and get some x-rays. Sometimes PT can help. If not, an MRI can be done, and perhaps an epidural steroid injection would be recommended.
Holly Lawler
5/29/2022 09:30:07 pm
I am 5 weeks post patellofemoral replacement with the wave on the right and 9 months post on the left. Both have lateral numbness. I am a PACU nurse and our hospital does a lot of total joint surgeries. I myself was not prepared for this numbness and was caught off guard with this sensation post op and was worried that something wasn’t right. I realized we never educate our pts that this would happen and is very common (esp the same day TKR pts) your explanation and illustration is excellent and reading this forum I see the need for my pts to be aware and educated on this. When I get back to work I will be incorporating this in my TKR discharge education and informing my co-workers that this is something common and we need to educate our pts about.
Roswitha Slone
6/16/2022 10:58:46 am
I am three months post-op and have the numb spot exactly where you have indicated. The question I have is that recently I'm experiencing little tingles in this area. Is this a sign that the nerves are healing or another symptom of the damage? 6/29/2022 12:46:15 pm
I think it could be both things simultaneously.
Risa Powell
6/30/2022 10:29:32 am
Hello, I have been reading through all these posts and am happy to have found this site. Things are explained in great detail and concise. I have to say that my situation is totally different than any of the above posts and indeed may not be able to be answered here. But I case someone else is in the same situation…. I had a very successful total knee replacement 2 years ago. Unfortunately, I overdid it; hiked too long one day ( involved some uneven surfaces) 7 months ago and immediately I knew I had done something. Ultrasounds have shown that I have bursitis in three different bursae ( last ultrasound showed that it is now in two bursae super and Intra) . I am having ongoing tests ( I am on MRI list) and then surgeon BUT my question is the tightness that I have experienced in my leg since I injured it has gone down to my foot. It happened the moment I injured it and it has not gone away since. It is a numb feeling in my foot. I am concerned about it and am hoping the MRI of my knee will show something, or I will be able to get some answers some how. I will see my surgeon after that, which will take a while. Sorry about my going on here. Just wondered if Dr Gorzynski had any insights or comments. Very much appreciated!! 7/9/2022 01:57:01 pm
Numbness in the foot is more likely due to a problem in your back than a problem with your knee. Unfortunately, I really can not comment any more than that. It sounds like you are undergoing appropriate workup for this complaint.
Risa Powell
7/9/2022 10:57:33 pm
I as others on this site, am very appreciative of your visual diagrams of what is involved(and approximately where) the nerves that are cut during surgery . It brings it to life more and easier to visualize. I brought it to my GP and she photocopied it.
Cate
7/26/2022 06:15:46 am
I had the in June 6. I healed quickly overall. But in the last three weeks my left chin muscle hurts so bad I can barely walk. It is still numb so i was told it’s just the nerves reconnecting still. But I am hobbling around for a few hours each day until it stops hurting, exercise helps. But it feels like a broken leg, but all that hurts like crazy is my numb left chin muscle when I walk. Especially in the morning. Please help. 7/29/2022 07:44:49 am
I would recommend you are seen by your surgeon for evaluation as soon as possible. The symptoms you describe could indicate a stress fracture in your tibia.
Jacey
8/10/2022 08:40:04 am
Had tkr almost two months ago and I stumbled on this website and happy I did. The tkr is on my right knee and I now understand the “numb patch”, which like everyone else it was never a subject the surgeon mentioned. Since after surgery I’m having bad pain on the medial side, where there is like a tight knot that prevents further bending. It as as a block. Help! 8/28/2022 10:24:29 pm
It is important to understand that your knee will improve for an entire year following surgery. It is not unusual to have some sensitivity, particularly medially, at this stage. That is where the deep surgical approaches, and the major soft tissue release often occurs. Just keep stretching as recommended, and you should be ok.
Peggy A Tazelaar
10/16/2022 08:17:46 pm
I had a TKR in December of 2021on my left knee that they found was infected finally 2 months later, after my struggle to make my surgeon, PA and PT believe me that something was very very wrong. 10/23/2022 08:36:58 pm
I would expect your knee to gradually improve for a year or more following the most recent surgery. The numbness lateral to the incision is likely to persist. You definitely went through an unpleasant, challenging experience, that is thankfully, rare. Best wishes on your ongoing recovery. 10/24/2022 10:40:46 am
I had a TKR 10 weeks ago. My leg swelling which felt like an elastic band around my thigh, knee and calf only went down about two weeks ago. This prevented me being unable to bend my knee and I can only reach about a 90 degree angle. Flexion is good and I continue with the exercises. My main concern is the skin around the knee appears fixed and tight preventing progress of my knee bends and improvement of movement. Should I be concerned? 11/6/2022 03:51:21 pm
Your experience represents the most common "mistake" patients make during total knee rehabilitation. Something seems "strange" early in their rehabilitative period and they stop stretching. This could be the "elastic band" feeling, swelling, pain, tightness, etc. The problem is the tightness they feel is a normal part of the inflammatory process that happens after the surgical trauma. It is exactly this tightness that requires stretching, otherwise motion is not regained adequately. The tissue planes around your knee scar together and tightness worsens. Unfortunately, at this point (10+ weeks postop) regaining more motion is increasingly difficult/impossible. Long duration stretching, as I describe throughout this website is the key. I also have an algorithm on management of the unacceptably stiff total knee. I usually perform manipulation around 6 weeks postop if motion is not acceptable. Otherwise, I wait until at least 12 weeks postop and then perform arthroscopic lysis of adhesions with manipulation. These are not ideal options, but better than having a stiff, painful knee. I try my very best to provide my patients the information they need to prevent this problem to begin with. I wish I was 100% successful convincing patients they need to stretch even when it hurts.
Brenda
11/26/2022 09:30:43 am
I am at 6 weeks post-op and my knee is still incredibly stiff, I have PT twice weekly and I do my stretches every day. Unfortunately, every morning it's like I'm starting all over again. I'm just as stiff as ever. I have RA so I don't know if that is the issue. I haven't found any good peer reviewed articles on the effect of RA on artificial joints. Any info would be helpful. 12/4/2022 04:52:46 pm
@Brenda- Total joint replacement is highly effective for all subtypes of degenerative joint disease including osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, post-traumatic arthritis, etc. It is common for patients to have difficulty regaining range of motion following knee replacement surgery. The solution is frequent, long duration stretching. Expect good and bad days, but resist the urge to wait for your knee to feel better before increasing your rehabilitative efforts.
Brenda
11/26/2022 09:24:56 am
The numbness I am experiencing seems to be much deeper than the skin. Are there nerves that can be damaged deeper. I am having difficulty with proprioception as my leg/knee feels like it's in a different position than it really is. This leads to knee buckling or tripping at times. 12/4/2022 04:49:28 pm
While it is very unlikely that any deeper nerves are damaged, the diminishment in proprioception is something that is likely. Proprioception is "joint position sense." It is disrupted by a joint replacement because the surface of the joint has been replaced with an insensate device. Most of the time patients are so pleased with the pain relief that any subtle loss of proprioception is worth it. I highly doubt this explains why you are experiencing buckling or tripping. Consider being evaluated for peripheral neuropathy, poor balance, joint instability, poor range of motion, and/or weakness. Thank you so much for this blog and the valuable info posted. Much appreciated. I had Rt TKR 12 weeks ago. My scar area is still warm & very sensitive, so my surgeon told me at my 8 wks visit to make a fist and rub my knuckles along the scar and it will go away in 2-3 wks which it hasn’t. I have pain on the med and lat side of the scar which I now understand why, from your drawing. So I have pain laying on my Rt and Lt side due to this. Hoping it will eventually pass. I am also bow -legged. I have good range of motion 118 and 0 degrees. Walking is not a problem. Going downstairs is still a little difficult. I had Shingles exactly 1 year prior to TKR which affected my Rt leg. I was not able to walk for 9 days due to pain. Would this be the reason why I still have so much nerve pain? Then 2 weeks ago I felt swelling in the back of my knee. I have been icing and applying heat to it as well. Is this normal? My next appt with the surgeon is in April. Sitting is when I feel the numbness, tightness & tingling more. Occ I will get sharp pains, much less than before. Rubbing my knee with both my hands seem to make it feel a little better. When I walk and also sit I feel like a clicking/ popping sound on the med side of my knee. It is esp when I try to bend & straighten my knee it clicks. I still continue to stretch & do all the exercises. I thought I would feel slight improvement every day. At this stage should I still bother to take acetaminophen 500mg every 8 hrs. What can I do to relieve these symptoms? I have minimal sleep at night.☹️Thanks in advance. 1/29/2023 01:56:31 pm
While you may have some post-herpetic neuralgia (pain after shingles), it is also possible this might just be part of a relatively normal healing process. While you are working hard to regain range of motion following knee replacement surgery, you are creating inflammation. This is normal, but causes pain, swelling, warmth. This is on top of the normal healing process following surgery. The mechanical feeling you experience is common and generally normal. Numbness lateral to the incision is normal. Expect to feel improvement for many months yet to come, probably the better part of a year. Your comment will be posted after it is approved.
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