How long untill I can dive again after a knee scope?

[ScubaCollin]

Hey guys, tomorrow im going in to get my knee cap sanded down and cut off some muscle (I guess, I have no clue what EXACTLY theyre doing) anyway Im wondering how long it would be before I could dive again. I live in Canada and I want to get some more diving in before the water freezes over. Last time I dived, I think the temp was 45 degrees so thats not bad. But I want to get some diving in before it all turns to ice and I hope that the surjury doesnt affect this.

 

[MXGratefulDiver]

Depends entirely on the extent of the damage and how hard you're willing to work at physical therapy.

I had arthoscopic surgery for torn lateral meniscus two years ago and was out six weeks ... but the doctor said that was an unusual situation and three weeks was more normal.

Don't skimp on the PT ...

... Bob (Grateful Diver)

 

[Dive-aholic]

knee cap sanded down and cut off some muscle

Ouch! Doesn't sound like a simple procedure. As gratefuldiver said, a typical arthoscopic procedure doesn't have to have a long recovery. They main thing is the incision healing. But what you're having done doesn't sound like a typical procedure. Ask your ortho what the name of the procedure is and call DAN. They should be able to give you advice.

 

[DocVikingo]

Hey guys, tomorrow im going in to get my knee cap sanded down and cut off some muscle (I guess, I have no clue what EXACTLY theyre doing) anyway Im wondering how long it would be before I could dive again. I live in Canada and I want to get some more diving in before the water freezes over. Last time I dived, I think the temp was 45 degrees so thats not bad. But I want to get some diving in before it all turns to ice and I hope that the surjury doesnt affect this.

Your orthopedic surgeon is the proper source to clear you for return to scuba. However, I'd venture to say that on the basis of what you've mentioned so far you will not be ready until after the water freezes over in your region.

The reflexive response from lay contributors to this forum often seems to be, "Call DAN." Kind of makes one wonder about the purpose of a Diving Medicine section if all that really is needed is a simple sticky with the following info:

You or your physician can contact DAN at 919-684-2948 (Monday through Friday, 9am to 5pm EST) or email at http://www.diversalertnetwork.org/c...asp?RE=Medicine

This is educational only and does not constitute or imply a doctor-patient relationship. It is not medical advice to you or any other individual, and should not be construed as such.

Wishing you a speedy recover and let me know how it goes.

DocVikingo

 

[Wendy]

good luck and let us know how things go. Also ask your doc to video tape your surgery so you have something to gross out your friends with at parties.

 

[Spectre]

If you are going to be doing Physical Therapy, I've found they are a good source to discuss the specifics. When I had my knee surgery, the "Diving" thing sort of scared them, but after getting into the mechanics of the finning and that sort of thing, and comparing the motions to the physical therapy exercises I was doing at the time, we were able to arrive at a compromise.

 

[Aquadoc68]

Bump DOC, The PT crew and Your surgeon will know. It's the excercise that they will worry about. Hang up you gear til next season why risk tearing up the stuff you just paid thousands for, well you and your countrymen paid for. JMHO

 

[cyklon_300]

I've had both knees scoped, ten years between operations.

I was playing 'light-duty' basketball 6 days after surgery on the first one. The first day after surgery was uncomfortable, but after that I regained mobility quickly.

The second op required extensive PT rehab and took several weeks to regain even moderate use of the knee. Climbing stairs was brutal.

Your recovery period will depend on the nature and extent of the procedure, your age, and other variables. The Dr. did not want me to immerse the knee for a min of 10 days post-op, but I cheated on that and started doing some lap swimming after a week.

 

[ScubaCollin]

Well, I got out of surgery today . . .I dont remember much. Im all 3 different pills. They said I would be alright after 10 days so I guess Ill be able to get more diving in. Thanx for the help guys.

 

[SDAnderson]

It's been three weeks today since I had my knee scoped and I'm not ready for the water yet. Results will vary and you want to push...just not too hard. Let your doctor and therapist know what you're hoping for and they'll help you get there, and let you know when you've arrived.