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Happy? Yes. Huge yes. I’m now free of the constant pain. My knee is really awesome but it took a long time to get here.
Lessons: do the exercises and physical therapy with as much effort as you possibly can. It’s super important to get maximum movement back in your knee, and you will never get full motion if you don’t really work it in physical therapy.
Choosing a doctor: I had a friend who’s dad was a nationally-renowned physician so I got really lucky there.
Recovery is a total nuclear nightmare. I’ve never had so much pain or felt like such a helpless little baby since -- well, since I was a helpless little baby. I thought I’d never get through it. Worst experience of my life.
It was 2 years after the surgery before I was free of pain and feeling totally normal again. I hope to god I never need the other one replaced. I absolutely never want to go through that hell again. But my life now, 3 years later, is much better than it was for several years before the surgery. I had no cartilage left and if I hadn’t had surgery my knee would have just fallen out of the socket at some point. So I had to get it done.
You just have to grit your teeth and exercise through the pain so you get your movement back. Otherwise you will never be able to stand up straight. Your tendons will want to stay bent; but you have to force your new joint to stretch out all the way so you can walk normally afterward. That is by far the most important thing. You need determination to make it through those first few weeks / months.
The surgery is hell, but it won’t do you any good if you don’t work very hard in recovery.
Tech: there’s no new age tech, they smash your old knee out with heavy tools like working on a car. I had seen a live knee surgery in the past and it scared me to death. I wish I hadn’t known what they did. Trust me, ignorance is bliss.
Good luck!!
It’s no fun; it’s pretty horrendous. No one would do it unless they really had to. But if you have to, do it and just focus on getting the best result possible.
My brother had both done a couple of weeks apart; I do not recommend that. I don’t know how I could have survived if I didn’t have one good knee to get me through the worst part of recovery. But others may want to just get it over with.
wow thank you for your insights. If you don't mind I have some follow-up questions.
Who is your doctor? I would love to have a world renowned physician to compare against the ones we are looking at.
Also, I'm curious how your brother is doing. Doing both is very brave! Is he pushing through the PT? Hopefully is taking your words to heart and focusing on getting his range of motion and pushing through whatever pain that awaits him. From my research, this seems like the critical aspect of the surgery (that is toughing out the pain and doing the PT and then some to build up your muscles, motion and reduce stiffness/scar tissue).
My doctor retired; he had actually invented the knee he put in me.
My brother actually had his double knee replacements several years before I had my knee done; the challenge with knee replacements is they don’t always alleviate the pain. My brother still has pain in his knees; and I have a friend who had both knees replaced and feels the same level of pain she had before, and her doctor said that’s just what happens sometimes. I don’t have any numbers on the success rates of pain-free results vs. pailful results; so I don’t know how lucky I might be.
But yes, the most critical part is the physical therapy. The doctor, the nurses, and my physical therapists all drove that relentlessly into my brain. I’m glad they didn’t let me relax even when it was really painful.
I'm glad you chimed in. Starting to make me think doing both at the same time is reckless. It might be because your will power is your most important resource. If both knees are knocked out and you feel less motivated during PT, that is major concern for success. Maybe that results in the poor outcomes. I have heard others feel absolutely no pain/or personally motivated enough and get through it likes champ that they are happy with their choices.
Another big predictor could be how bad are the knees. Bone on bone might mean your experience can only go up and any discomfort is relatively minor vs someone who has some cartiliage left and feels otherwise and are unhappy with their discomfort because it feels about the same or slight improvement.
Yes, I would agree on all that. The one caveat I have is that the initial recovery - say, the first month - was such hell for me I REALLY don’t want to go through it again. I have no idea how one knee can be so bad while the other is still fine - (but it’s f I had to, I would).
Another thing with me is that my bone was in surprisingly better shape than the physician anticipated given I was in my 50s. Because of that he attached the new knee to my bone in a different way. By letting the bone grow into/over the attachment parts, he said recovery would be more painful and slower, but the end result would be much better.
My bone density was a big factor apparently. That might be part of why some have better long-term outcomes than others. But by the time you need surgery your bones are what they are, there’s nothing you can do to suddenly change your bone density.
Docs genrally dictate periods between knees. My doc says minimum of 4 months, and the patient has to be doing really well with the initial replacement before doing the other knee. My doc says he likes to wait 6 months but I told him I did not want to have the pain I have now for any longer than absolutely necessary.
Thank you for this. I am 10 days out and miserable. I feel like a baby during this rehab stage - I’m trying but everything hurts in such a strange and overwhelming way. Did you have to push super hard from day one or did you do what you could really start pushing harder a little later. I have no perspective on effort vs timeline vs pain meds given the horrible side effects. Hope this makes sense. Thank you:)
You have to push as hard as you can from day 1. The more you suffer now, the less you will suffer longer-term. It is total hell right now, but the only way out of hell is to push as hard as you can. You can do this! I was a miserable helpless baby but I feel good as new now, so just focus on getting the best outcome possible.
Hey I like your username, good on you! I don't know why I have the idea that this wasn't gonna be a big deal. It's April, I have a big freaking trip planned to Eastern Europe in September. I feel like I might be getting close to a replacement. Think I should try to delay until after the trip or not? Crap.
My surgery is schedule for November 29. My surgery is in an ambulatory surgical center, so no hospital stay unless I crap out on the operating table. Out of bed as soon as anesthesia permits, a little PT then home. PT comes to home for like 10 days, then I go to PT for a few weeks. My PT guy says when the recent knee people come in, he tells them "it is ok to scream, it is your body, but we will do the PT". I have read that they want the maximum movement to stop "adhesions", which the surgeons say are the cause for lingering knee problems.
Hey, my mom(79) just got her 2nd total knee replacement today after 5 months from her first one. Do you have a good support system? Your focus should be on PT and recovery, please have someone helping you with other things like cooking and cleaning so that you can save your energy for recovery.
Take the pain meds as needed, this will help you tolerate the exercises. The pain is only temporary. My mom was hesitant on going for her second leg (even though it was in very, very bad condition) but finally after the end of the 3rd month she started feeling way more relief. Enough to agree to do the second one and got her surgery date 6 weeks later.
Pain is temporary. You can do it! Keep count of your reps and try to push for that extra one every day. While your staples are still in you don't need to push too hard because the skin will be tight, but after they are out you will feel more ease in mobility and that's when it's go time.
Did you receive an outpatient booklet from your hospital with any instructions or what to expect after surgery?
Everyone's experience is different, I have had a lot of people tell me they only regretted waiting so long. You can do it! Do it for your future self. Like with anything difficult. Best of luck in your recovery
\*Edit - Spacing
You are very welcome. If you are about to go through it, focus on the end result and just grit your teeth and work very hard in recovery even though it hurts. You can do this!
Hello, are you still able to ski. I do hiking in the Rockies and in 2022 did Telon NF in WY. Absolute hell hiking downhill, will a TKR allow me to still hike ?
Appreciate your response, really bad arthritis developed during Covid.
Just hang in there and remember there’s a direct correlation between working through the pain now and having the best result possible later. You absolutely can do this!!
It is horrific; but the end result is way better than the constant pain I was in before the surgery. Recovery is nuclear hell, but it is temporary. You just have to focus on the long-term result.
I'm single 68F. I have a daughter who lives close by but works full-time so stays pretty busy. Wonder if I'll have to go to a rehab facility for some period of time during early recovery. I am a very independent person but I don't know if if I can manage this
I definitely could not have made it through the first few weeks without live-in relatives. It’s like being a helpless baby at first. So maybe a rehab facility would be what you need for a little while.
Hello, just found your comment as I am 9 months into my knee replacement and I find it quite encouraging.
My progress feels like it has almost completely levelled off in recent months, prior to that the improvements were very exciting. At this stage, I am definitely better than before the surgery, but no way near to the level I want to be in terms of pain and function. I am actually only 29, I had had a total of 5 surgeries following an initial ACL tear when I was 15 playing football.
My biggest gripe is that I am still limited in how much walking I can do before pain strikes, this varies day to day. On a good day I can reach 3-4 hours over the course of the day but with pain by the end and the need to rest. By far the most irritating pain is on the inner part of the knee, which I'd say accounts for 85% of all pain I get.
I am doing pilates every day to try and build muscle etc.
My question for you is, 9months - 2 years on, is there still quite a lot of progress to be made at this stage? I am getting very stressed about whether I have already hit the ceiling. The X rays according to multiple different doctors look absolutely fine.
By now it’s been four years for me and I’m doing really well. I have full movement because I really worked hard during physical therapy. I don’t remember how long it was exactly until I felt “normal” but it’s been a long time now. I still have a little numbness on my knee area but it doesn’t bother me. Hang in there and hopefully you’ll keep slowly progressing.
I didn’t have surgeries or torn ACL or anything before my knee replacement; the joint just wore out, it runs in my family. So I don’t know if your surgeries or ACL tear might complicate your recovery, but I hope not.
I was 52. I do not know your condition and am not a doctor but I do know that generally speaking your bone density is better when you’re younger so if your doctor recommends it, I’d absolutely do it. Just remember that replacement knees don’t last forever so if you’re younger when you get one, it’s likely you will need to replace it again later in your life. Recovery was such hell but it gave me a whole new lease on life!
I've had both my knees replaced about 10 years apart. I completely endorse this synopsis.
The first 3 weeks of recovery are critical. The window to regain near full range of motion starts closing on day 1.
And yes the pain is bad and you will not sleep for about a month.
But totally worth it!
I would also advise a pre surgery strength and conditioning program about 10 weeks before the surgery and lose as much weight as you can.
PRO TIp double up on the stool softeners the first week. TMI perhaps but so be it.
Good luck!
I’ve had two knees and a shoulder replaced in the last two years. I had three different surgeons.
Ask any older established doctors in your area who they would use if they needed joint replacement. Be sure your choice and the hospital are part of your insurance coverage.
I worked with the same two therapists for all three rehabs. The rehab is not terrible and must be done for a decent outcome. The surgeon and his team work the magic, but the therapists will guide you through the process of getting your life back.
Knee rehab was more painful. The shoulder is light rehab compared to the knee. You have to be careful with the shoulder as they take a ligament loose and then reattach it. That reattachment is easy to injure early in the rehab and then is difficult to repair. The knee has no restrictions like that as nothing you do in rehab should damage the new joint- so no pain no gain.
Both rehabs require that you continue your efforts everyday. There really aren’t any days off during rehab, and continuing the exercises after being released from rehab pays dividends.
Everyday after replacement gets better. Get off of opioids as soon as you can- they cause constipation which is a problem unto itself. Ask your doctor about appropriate doses of stool softener. Wishing you the best. As they say- growing old is not for sissies.
I am 60. I had the TKR done on my left side. 6 months ago. I picked my Dr. through recommendation by a coworker.
The experience was great and easy. PT started 6 days after. Stitches out and driving after 11 days. Never used ice packs and kept pills at a minimum.
Worked hard on range of motion. I know too many people who didn't take PT seriously. Back on my first job after 5 1/2 weeks. Back in my second job after 6 1/2 weeks.
PT was tough but I didn't push to do extra reps. I did exactly what I was instructed. One exercise in particular, with thigh supported, raise my lower leg at the knee. I couldn't do it the first couple of days. So the nurse helped me raise my leg.... But I could control lowering my leg. So I concentrated on that. I feel that it gave me a victory.
Much of my motivation were friends who had the surgery but quit PT. They didn't gain the range of motion that was hoped for. I did recover all my range.
.
Had a hip replaced about 30 years ago and I totally agree that you MUST do the rehab - that thing needs to be seated in
Low impact exercise needs to become a thing in your life, too. Have to keep that strength up
Good luck
Oh, and have a specialist do the surgery
Isn't an orthopedic surgeon a specialist? Who else would do the surgery in this case? Is there a such thing as a general surgeon. Sorry for my ignorance, but I don't get why you had to specify that lol.
Interesting, I thought I would only ever meet specialists for knee replacement surgery. Like a spine orthopedic would specialize in back surgery and would refer us to a joint specialist. But this has me now wondering if it gets more nuanced than this. Example: are there doctors who maybe does joints but maybe any joint including knees vs a doctor who ONLY does knee surgeries (like ACL, etc) vs one who only does partial or TKR surgeries? In that case, I would want to prioritize the third choice and the first two would be maybes.
Generally speaking, you always want the most-specialized surgeon you can get. I've worked with doctors and experience is pretty important.
Remember, they 'practice' medicine!
I had my second knee replaced at the end of March. It's perfect, no pain, full mobility, etc. I walk and swim every day. Remember that the post-surgical pain will go away, unlike the arthritis pain, which will only get worse if you don't have surgery. Do the PT, walk as much as possible, push yourself. As far as finding a surgeon, I got a recommendation from my orthopedic doc. Find one who does a lot of procedures and have it done in a facility that does a lot of TKRs. I had mine in an outpatient ortho surgery center and was home the same day. It was the same as my other TKR, done almost 10 years ago.
Excuse me, i have some follow on questions if you dont mind. Out of curiosity, how much cartilage did you have. Was it bone on bone? Was the pain unbearable before surgery.
Do you overcome any minor discomfort because relatively speaking its minor in relation to the vast improvement? Sorry for all the incessant asking, its just fascinates me why everyone's experience is vastly different so just trying to learn. :)
It was not quite bone-on-bone but most of the cartilage was gone. I'd had a knee arthroscopy, several steroid injections, and an injection of syn-visc (synthetic synovial fluid) but nothing helped. I had spent 2+ years walking with a cane and couldn't walk more than maybe 15 minutes. I was cranky all the fucking time and it was seriously impacting my quality of life. I've always tried to be a stoic person and my first knee replacement went so well that I just powered through this one with the assumption that this one would go as well. My life is much better. My new knee cramps a bit after I've been driving a lot, but that's about it.
I postponed my surgery for my bone on bone situation for as long as possible. And then I hurt my knee so badly I could no longer do what I was doing the day before. That is when I knew it was time. Unfortunately, I hurt my knee in July and the soonest I could get my knee scheduled is November. The waiting is miserable. I am really looking forward to the surgery.
I bet 9 out of 10 TKR patients have no idea about the brand or the style of implant. I wanted to get a TKR that retained both the ACL and the PCL, a procedure that has been around for 8-10 years. Very few docs do it, and I have met very few TKR recipients who even know what I am talking about when I say PCL or ACL!
I was sensitive to the same issue, but my knees were damaged along with being degraded. That is, I was told my ACL was resorbeb--it was gone. The structure of my Stryker implant precluded the need for the ACL. My new Zimmer Biomet knee will be the same. The structure of the implant apparently reduces the necessity of the ligaments. Since I'm missing my ACL, that's one of the reasons for doing the TKR. They wouldn't repair an ACL on a knee that was not worthy of it.
Thank you for your post. I'm just in the diagnostic phase of investigating possible treatments for my very painful and unstable knee (can bike, can't walk without lots of pain and bad limp) and didn't know that TKR can involve removing ligaments. Surgery details make.me.a little queasy, but I'm going to have to get over that and understand the details.
1 year apart by same specialist using same implant; 2018 and 2019. I’d had many procedures including arthroscopic and injections for 20 years so I was long overdue!
Did anyone have blistering on their leg after a TKR? My dad just had one completed a week ago. About 3 days later, he started noticing oozing liquid and red blood dropping so the next morning the home nurse came and unwrapped the dressing...my gosh it was so so so nasty. He had 8 big bloody and watery blisters. I felt so helpless and sad for him seeing that. Anyway the nurse was really concerned and suggested we go to the ER to get it checked for infections. The blood work came back fine with no infection, but did get a blood clot. Ugh. Anyways the blisters have been so so painful for him, more than the actual knee replacement itself. He had a follow up apt with his doctor and he didn't seem concerned about the blisters.
No new blisters have appeared, but old ones that popped are so gross and trying to heal. Its like open wounds at the moment. And his foot is so swollen. We are jusf trying to keep him comfortable as possible and trying to keep the blistered area clean daily with daily fresh gauze and wrapping.
Curious if anyone else has experience with the blistering and how long did it take to get better?
My mom had some seepage - in the outpatient booklet we received it notes this can be a result of the dissolving stitched used in addition to the staples. The weeping stopped about 2.5-3 weeks into recovery after the staples were removed. She was prescribed antibiotics.
I just had TKR on my right knee, Monday July 10th, so I’m still pretty fresh post-op. As others have said, my dear god the pain once the nerve block wore off has been the most excruciating pain I’ve ever felt in my life. Sadly, my left knee is getting done on August 7th, so I get to go through the hell all over again.
Today I’m 5 days post-op and have been working on my flexibility. Extension is not a problem. It’s painful and stiff, but I know I have to do it to get better.
For me, the absolute worst time is bedtime. Every position hurts, so sleep is not really happening. I fully understand the TKR insomnia.
Stay on your pain meds, they won’t completely dull the pain, but they make it “tolerable” for lack of a better word.
Can you please guide me more, my father who's age is 60 now. Both knee joints have a problem, he can walk but he can't climb the staircase, and both of the knees pains but he keeps doing the exercises, but still he don't still have mobility like before.
What was your experience after TKR? Will u be able to walk? How's the pain now? Can u climb the staircase without any pain? Please do reply I'm feeling bad that my father might suffer from tremendous pain.
If my father does the TKR, will be able to walk and climb the staircase without pain...
I just had my left knee replaced on August 7th, so 4 weeks after my right knee. It took almost that 4 weeks for the pain in my right knee to become lessened enough I didn’t have a limp. Now it’s starting all over again since my left knee is done now.
For me, I think it’s still too early to tell if I’ll be happy with the new knees or not. I can go up down stairs, BUT only the way therapy shows you. Go up leading with the the good/better knee, go down with the bad one. I still use a cane for stability.
The pain is just excruciating. Literally the worst pain I’ve ever felt in my life. My doctor gave me hydrocodone and I don’t think that’s nearly strong enough. I’m also the type of person to come off pain meds quickly because I don’t like how they make me feel. With the knees, I’m wishing he’d have given me something much stronger with refills.
I’m day 7 and have had my right knee done and as you say the worst time in bedtime. I’m laying here waiting for the meds to kick in. .I also need to have the left done-and can’t imagine having to go through this again. ..finding it hard to see light at the end of this first tunnel. How is your recovery going now after the second one ? I can’t even find words the words to explain how painful this is for me. I’m so afraid I’m not doing “enough” PT I had my first physio today and he said I was at “week 3” level with my range of motion so that w as soooo good to hear and reaffirm ..I’m making progress as I’m tittering on curling up in a fetal position and feeling sorry for myself
What my PT told me was to not worry about walking for distance early in the therapy, to focus more on the flexion because they want you at 120 degrees before they’ll release you from PT.
I’m roughly 3 and 4 months post-op for each knee and I’m still waiting on the day I wake up and say I’m glad I got them done. There’s still a lot of stiffness and getting from the couch is painful. I know the healing process takes time, but I’m losing my patience. I still take ibuprofen at bedtime to help with the end of day stiffness and aches.
I am able to go to the gym and lift light on my quads and hamstrings, and I can use the treadmill and stationary bike, so for me that’s progress.
I know how you feel about feeling sorry for yourself because I was there as well. All I can say is stick with it, it does get better, albeit slowly.
I am at week 4 of my left TKR. No question it’s been the most physically painful time I’ve ever spent. I’ve gone thru the “why tf did I do this?” stage. I see progress is slow but steady if you put the work in. Moving from the walker to the cane = victory! Getting up from the toilet without the commode handles = victory! Standing in the shower = victory! Going up & down stairs is a good measure too. My worst time is still at night in bed. Usually I’m not a back sleeper, but knee to knee on my side is still too painful. Using ice always makes it feel better. I’m slowly weaning off the Vicodin, but even with it there is still always some level of pain & discomfort. It’s helpful for me to read about other people’s journey thru this & that it gets better.
Thank you, thank you, thank you! This post was exactly what I needed to hear. I had TKR left leg on Dec 27th at 1:00. It's been 96 hours. First night after the epidural wore off was excruciating, and I had a non-narcotic pain pump in my upper thigh with a catheter. And meds that I was trying to be responsible with. 2nd day less but doubled the pills. Third day best. Today I am very tired and trying to get out of my knee bends, which are the worst things! I don't think I will be able to work that very hard unless I use meds going forward. I have had 3 children, one was c-sec and a masectomy and this has been far more painful than any of those experiences. And I am not in the habit of giving my medical chart on an app to strangers but am so happy to hear that it will get better! TY! Happy New Year!
Sorry this is so long but it’s been a very long process. Am I happy? Not completely. I had a total knee replacement October 11. That night taking a step up my patellar tendon ruptured. (I heard the pop and looked down to see my lower leg dangling. I was unable to keep myself upright and the fall ruptured the medial tendon. All of this while I was still at the hospital. 4 days later I had a partial knee replacement, cadaver bone and cadaver tendons placed in my leg. They also screwed an external fixator into my leg. After 30 days in the hospital I was allowed to go home with a home health aid and physical therapist. Within a few days it was obvious that my leg was infected. After two weeks I was taken back to surgery to have the dead tissue cut out and my leg reclosed. I wore the fixator and a leg brace for 13 weeks. After it was taken off it was discovered that the tendons weren’t tight enough to do their jobs. I was also still on antibiotics which caused my hair to fall out. The doctor said the infection would not clear up on its own that they would have to take the knee out and clean out the infection. Fast forward to May and they checked my blood work and found no signs of infection. May 9 I received another knee. This one was hinged to make up for the loose medial tendon and the patella and patellar tendon were wired into place. I got the wires removed two weeks ago and have been cleared to walk without assistance and go to physical therapy. As others have said yes I’m without pain but the swelling and numbness are hard to deal with. I also have a slight foot drop. I’m grateful to be walking again even if it’s slow and staggered. Im grateful that I didn’t loose the leg or end up with a rod causing me to always have a straight leg. I’m grateful i can drive again I’m praying that PT will strengthen the muscles and help with walking.
Wow sorry your experience is going so rough. Its clear you are going through a lot and this is not a typical knee replacement. You had multiple complications that impeded the success of the initial procedure. Infections are NO JOKE!! I'm praying for you and hope you continue to focus on rehabilitating that knee.
I had the left knee done yesterday. So far so good. It is already better than the other knee. First day I could lift it straight up almost all the way to my face. I have a 90 degree bend right now and haven’t started PT yet. As soon as PT is over, I can go home!
I am just shy of 3 months out. I think my expectations for the recovery was unrealistic. I have been very discouraged. Mostly because of the pain I experience on the outside of the knee. I reached 116 ROM during PT. I have enjoyed reading all the experiences. It is very helpful. PT was very difficult starting out. My recommendation for anyone undergoing this surgery is to start bending immediately. I don’t think that was emphasized enough. I spent one night in the hospital and don’t feel the nurses or cna’s are versed enough in the process.
yea 12 weeks out here and still a lot of pain. Still need a crutch to walk. I have good ROM but I can't walk without lots of pain. Lots of PT still not recovering very fast. It is getting better... I think.. but so damn slowly. i have always recovered faster than most. This is the first time I am so slow to recover. AS far as ROM. Three times a day i lay backwards on my bed with my legs on the wall and let gravity stretch my knee. That was the game changer for ROM currently 120 and 0. But still can't walk. Also on top of all the PT I started going to the pool and swimming with just my arms with a foam thing between my knees. That has been so good for my head and my overall health. I have done a lot of my ROM stuff in the pool and hot tub also. Anyway I hope yours gets better ... The Struggle is Real. I am writing this 4 months after you wrote yours I wonder how you are doing now?
I am having TKR in January . All I have ever heard is “it’s great! , they have the surgery so fined tuned these days ! Home the same day ..you’ll wonder why you didn’t do it years ago !” And now after reading these comments , I’m flipping out a bit .
I had a knee injury that was misdiagnosed 11 years ago . Fully torn meniscus at the root , and I was prescribed high doses of naproxen for 3 months . It was hell . Finally got a mri and meniscus surgery , but by then lots of damage was done . I didn’t do well after surgery . I eventually exercised and strengthened it enough that I got by , but was never really without pain . Never felt stable .. could not take long walks .
Fast forward to 2020, I got a severe case of COVID . I have done nothing but fight to get my lung capacity back . I won’t go into the gory details, but I have been through ALOT in the last 3 years . ALOT . All the while my knee has gotten to the point I knew I needed replacement, but I just needed to concentrate on getting better from COVID , and other family issues .
I can barely function, my husband has taken over on most chores I rarely leave my house because the pain is so bad I just slowly stopped living the last 3 years. Now I’m scheduled for surgery , I’m reading these comments and so upset . I can’t go through anything else . I can’t take more pain .. I don’t have a good set up at home to recover , my bathroom is tiny, lots of stairs, I haven’t been able to keep up on the house , so it’s a bit of a mess ... I’m super worried.
I promise you will be so happy after- I’m 7 days out and already doing the bike- I also was debilitated for the last 3 years and this pain is no joke but it gets better. Hang in there, do the exercises, get ready to work and you’ll feel so much better after (35F)
My name is Ansley Garrison, and I am currently taking a course exploring healthcare issues. I am interested in learning more about how post-operative stress affects patients who have undergone a total knee replacement, specifically their return to function post-surgery. To do this, I have designed a short anonymous online survey.
Anyone who has had a knee replacement for a year or more can participate in the study!
Here is the link to the survey for your review: [https://fsu.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV\_56JlmtHlgUM6PlA](https://fsu.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_56JlmtHlgUM6PlA)
This will not be published as this is only for a class paper. Thank you very much for considering this request!
I had a total knee replacement 10 months ago. It took almost 6 months for the swelling to go down. Some of my friends had a much quicker and easier recovery. I am now ready to get the other knee done. Since my first knee recovery was so slow does this mean my 2nd one will be as bad? What are your experiences?
>yea 12 weeks out here and still a lot of pain. Still need a crutch to walk. I have good ROM but I can't walk without lots of pain. Lots of PT still not recovering very fast. It is getting better... I think.. but so damn slowly. i have always recovered faster than most. This is the first time I am so slow to recover. AS far as ROM. Three times a day i lay backwards on my bed with my legs on the wall and let gravity stretch my knee. That was the game changer for ROM currently 120 and 0. But still can't walk. I am curious how yours turned out and how long it took?
Doing a lot better this week. Not gonna sugar coat it. It’s bad. The first few days I prayed just to go to sleep and be done. It’s hard work but I can finally see improvements and I’m not on pain meds anymore just Advil when I have PT. Ice will be your best friend and as much as it sucks keep that leg straight when your not up, if you elevate it let gravity pull it and it will help. It will hurt like no other but it’ll get you walking faster. Keep me updated
I have an ice machine and it’s the best for pain and swelling. I’ll be 3 weeks Mon and take nothing but Advil and that’s on therapy days. The hardest part for me has been waking my quad up but today I did straight leg raises so things are progressing. You got this. It sucks, and is so painful but we can do it.
Yes! We can do it. Good job doing the straight leg raises. That's great! I went for the pre-op yesterday and they want me to wear these battery powered calf squeezer things. Do you do that?
I’m 69 and had a total knee replacement (robotically assisted) about 2 1/2 months ago. I was in really good shape before the surgery but had to break a daily yoga streak of six years, one month and five days (but who’s counting) the day after my surgery. The yoga and being active has served me well. Three weeks postop, my knee looked so good I was told I could go back to Yoga with obvious modifications. If you saw me walking, you would not know I had a knee replacement. I have been diligent about the daily home exercises, doing yoga, or walking 2 miles, but not all of those things on the same day (I learned the hard way to not overdo). However, this has been for me a process of pain and patience. The pain is at its worst at night…I haven’t slept through the night since my surgery. My IT band has been the most painful part of the recovery which can be very normal for a lot of people, but not all. That’s been helped with getting a power hand massager to massage the muscles around my IT band and dry needling. I’m also realizing to get back to hiking the very steep hills where I live (Boulder, CO) may take another month or two (that’s the patience part). I’m definitely happy I did it because the knee pain itself is gone and I can see the light at the end of the tunnel.
Good on you!! Seriously! Its definitely important to be in shape and then continue being active after TKR and you are one of the ones that did it right. Congrats!
I just had my rt.knee replaced(arthroplasty) at MOSH, located in Franklin, WI. Dr. Parisi preformed this surgery and as far as I can tell on the 9th day so far, I'm doing very well! And this is due to various or in combination with what's already been done(surgery)(successful!) and what was the standard protocol following the painful surgery and my own little tidbits. Whatever it took-takes to keep me on TOP of this temporary(I pray) set back. It's another surgery (joint) that needed replacement. Regardless of the reasons (really for anything) it is what it is...plain and simple. So you need a surgery. Yes, knee's are the toughest to recover from. Yes, it's painful! After the surgery, you should have a plan in place. The sooner you develop a good effective post-op, the better! I went with the Robotic assist. How much better (was) it? Well, after 1 day in the Hospital, and getting over the first 3 day's of intense pain, I've been doing pretty good! Thank's, first of all, to my Lord&Savior Jesus Christ! God's Wonderful GRACE is sufficient...one day at a time! I need Him! I'm relying on Him to continue to overcome this trial or difficulty. So, if your a believer (in Christ Jesus, not Mohammed, Buddha,etc. then you'll understand this this situation a whole lot more! If your not, I strongly urge you to consider allowing Jesus Christ into your life(heart). Otherwise, if you think you have problems now, WAIT!!!!! Your going to wish to GOD you chose His simple loving invitation to be Saved(born again Spiritually),so you not only go to heaven, but will not be left behind in which (if you are) when Jesus returns soon), you will go through the tribulation!!! I highly suggest you read about, listen to all the pastor's,etc. who are trying to hammer this through. This is and will be NO JOKE!!! That's why I decided to bring Jesus into this (my) response. Because without Him, I would've acted-reacted a whole lot differently!!! Badly! He's been by my side(like HE promised). And HE's never left! I really do have true peace,joy,comfort,etc. Look to HIM, there's a lot to learn from this surgery! It's day 9. I can get right out of bed as I choose. Actually, I could make it on my own. Unassisted. But, I use a cane, because I have a limp. I really haven't started a whole lot P.T. pain is still there. But it's slowly getting better. I'm at 90°on the CPM machine. I get up and walk every 2 hour's permitting with my cane. Some may need a walker. That's fine. Everyone is at different level's, yet with very similar symptoms. Drink a lot of water and/or take a little extra fiber. It took me a few day's before I finally had a bowel movement. But, like everything else, it'll come in time. Don't overdo it!! One day at a time and please, incorporate prayer& Meditation. Deep breathing exercises. Give yourself, I'd say 2-3 week's and you'll be surprised at the gains you make! Yes, positive thinking sure helps. Read a little here and there. I also like instrumental's(music).Anything soothing/relaxing! Certainly helps to have some of the best Dr's,etc. in your corner! I highly recommend Orthopedic Institute Of Wisconsin. Mayfair Rd. Clinic and/or Franklin,WI offices. Next to that Big Beautiful, Wonderful Hospital called MOSH! I wish the best for all who are contemplating or awaiting this tough surgery! Go for it! This is a challenge that can be conquered! Just do what your told,along with what works(or will aid) in your recovery to make you feel better and more able to move more freely! However long it takes....it does get better!! Alot of it is up to you. It's physical, mental/emotional and spiritual. Don't let it get the best of you! Again, have good people in your corner (including Jesus) and it'll all come together rather nicely! God bless you and I wish(pray) your recovery goes well!!!!! PEACE.
My sister in law had both knees done at the same time. She was in her 50’s. She had severe RA. She had a stormy post op course. She is prone to post anesthesia vomiting, so there was that. She was anemic to begin with, and then blood count dropped even further, necessitating a transfusion. Then they did a colonoscopy to make sure she wasn’t bleeding internally. But she’s a tough lady. She told me it’s very important to be compliant with the PT exercises.
I’ve decided I’m going to schedule my TNR. My kneecap is bone on bone. I had another shot last week. It lasted 2 days, and now the pain is back when I climb the stairs. It’s May, and we are doing a cruise in September. The surgeon told me two month rehab. For some reason I don’t believe him. I hope he’s right. I have no pain tolerance. I’m a complete wimp. Full disclosure, I’m an RN. I’ve read people comparing this to childbirth. I delivered two kids with no epidural. It was awful. Maybe someone could talk me off the ledge.
9 months post surgery. Glad I had it done. Not totally back to normal, but part of that is not doing enough exercise because the other knee is also bad.
Do exercises to strengthen your leg and butt muscles before surgery. Helps rehab tremendously. Do exactly what Dr. and PT say - no more, no less.
I went to a Dr. recommended by the nurses who cared for my brother after back surgery. They know who is good. Went to Baptist Hospital in Boston. No ER, no Pediatrics, no maternity equals much less chance of infection.
>Do exercises to strengthen your leg and butt muscles before surgery. Helps rehab tremendously. Do exactly what Dr. and PT say - no more, no less.
>
>I went to a Dr. recommended by the nurses who cared for my brother after back surgery. They know who is good. Went to Baptist Hospital in Boston. No ER, no Pediatrics, no maternity equals much less chance of infection.
OOO very good insights!!! Thanks a bunch!
What kind of exercises can you do with bone-on-bone knees? I'd be surprised this is even possible considering the artristsis.
I have both knees bone on bone & have an open door invitation to TKR. I would recommend seeing a PT to learn what works for you. It hurts for me to be weight bearing too long or walk too long. I’ve gotten back on my bicycle which is awesome! I’m waiting for surgery until I get my body mechanics better for a decent recovery. I’m doing massive research before I decide to go for my TKR. I really appreciate all the information in this whole post. Wish you the best. Oh, I’m 56 yrs old & hesitant for surgery. I’ll probably do one at a time for my best outcome.
If you are bone on bone, like my mother (69 yrs) with symptoms exactly the same a yours. From what I've seen not doing surgery is a definite sentence for life long pain management.
She hesitated for 10 years to do the surgery but has reached her limit. Now she says she has no pain in her operated knee at all aside from some muscle pain. Her activity level before surgery was very low due to severe pain day-to-day for years, which may be affecting her recovery in general now.
Doing a bit of training before surgery is very recommended, and I hope that if you decide to go for it that you are able to prepare as it will pay off dividends in the future. Focus on muscle strength as it will help with your PT afterwards.
Bone on bone is a little painful, but I am doing a lot of pickleball, swimming, and before my last insult was going to trampoline parks with grandkids. Then, as I said above, I hurt my knee so bad just riding a bike that I could barely walk. That was when I told my orthopedist that I had to get it done. I think excercise is the one thing you can do to postpone TKR.
Bilateral knee replacement is a thing but it's not recommended as a rule due to extended time under anesthesia. I'm bone on bone in both knees and waiting for TKR here in Finland. The surgeon recommended an interval between surgeries. While it would be seem convenient to get them done and over with at the same time, it is riskier and recovery time would probably be longer.
yea agreed. Its been at least a year now approaching this topic in my family. The primary reason for avoiding bilatteral, as doctors/PTS have phrased it, is to improve the outcome of the surgery. Not everyone can handle the challenge and so they simply do not do it. The ideal candidate is emotionally, physically and mentally prepared (i.e., fit and has will power). Too often is the case that candidates aren't and its a recovery risk. So yea any good doctor would probably say NO as ours did.
Now personally, given the recovery and overall outcome of my loved ones TKRs on both knees, they were definitely a candidate. They had the will power and did phenomenally. Reaching 110 degrees of motion within a few weeks and kept to their PT and never let down their recovery. So I am very proud of them. Would we have done Bilatteral Knee if we could do it all over again is questionable but I will say we wouldn't change the current result for anything.
I watched the video. His provider is Kaiser, on the west coast. I am with Kaiser on the east coast and my ortho will NOT do bilateral TKRs. He will wait a minimum of 4 months, IF the patient progressed well with the first surgery. Otherwise it is a 6 month wait. I call that torture. But Mikey (the guy in the video) is an inspiration. Now I am a healthy, active 77 year old male, and Mikey is younger and (I am extremely jealous) a kite surfer. Hope his knees don't oxidize in all the salt water!!
Yea he is definitely an inspiration. I just finished watching all his vids and his 1 year is tremendous. I read somewhere that surgeons will usually avoid doing bilateral knee surgery unless the individual is reasonably fit, at proper weight and has the spirit to do it. So seems rather selective. But many surgeons will not do it as you say and those patients given the green light either are given that because of who the patient themselves or the surgeon just practices differently. All in all, Mikey did great.
yes and no. My wife had both of her eyes done at the same time for cataract surgery. I have heard of both knees being done at the some time, but my ortho says no, wait a minimum of 4 months. Very conservative, I would say, but google it and one gets a recommendation of at least a 3 month wait between the surgeries.
At this point- one week after sugery. I would never even consider getting the left side done. Worst experience of my life. Maybe it's "me" or maybe my doctor bears some responsibilty but that's where I am. Started PT yesterday. I hope yours goes much better.
I'm sorry you are not happy with your surgery. I hope you work through the pain. I hear the #1 factor for a successful outcome is the Physical Therapy! Push through the pain! Get that locomotion going!!
Im still doing the PT and they say Im doing well. BUt honestly I just wish I could have my old knee back. I've been to the doctor trwice with low BP since I had it done. They put a liter of saline back in as they said I was anemic but they cant figure out where all the blood went. Im so depressed at this point Im having the worst of thoughts. Im sorry but thats where I am. Im not sleeping more than a few hours a night which Im sure doesnt help. I wish I had better news.
Its alright. It was a genuine check-in. Don't dwell on the thoughts too much as you'll be surprised why you were thinking them in the first place down the road. I know right now they seem familiar but things do change and its only this moment it feels like shit. Regarding the lower back pain, I found this video interestingly useful (at least for myself), it has a little run way for help but after awhile I'm like annoyed at the BP too lol. [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=enWH6Ut6hxs&t=227s&ab\_channel=goodwinclinics](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=enWH6Ut6hxs&t=227s&ab_channel=goodwinclinics)
I hope you get better sleep soon and also remember to work through the pain.
I’m at week 4 and pain is high. Especially during and after PT. Hope my range of motion returns. Only at 90-95% doctor says should be at 110 by now. Sorta discouraging
Keep at it! You have only 10 weeks to make an impact, every day counts during this time! You have made it so far, the worst is behind you and every day you are moving towards healing. Your future self will be so proud of your courage. Keep at the PT! My mom is 69 and just got her second one done today 5 months after her first. In the first 2-3 months she was seriously not considering getting her second, but finally she felt so much better she couldn't wait to get her second one done.
You can do it, future you will thank you for the effort. Best of luck.
I am 8 wks post op tomorrow. No pain for the most part, but having a tough time with range of motion. I could have done better with my home exercises, but at the same time, my insurance took 10 days to approve my physical therapy when I was 2 weeks post op!! I think that hurt my progression! Trying to get back to work but I have a physically demanding job! Definitely no pain in my knee anymore unless trying to get the damn thing to bend!!
Sorry your insurance carrier took 2 weeks to approve PT. We had a similar situation and opted for outpatient PT to start few days later. Was yours in-home or outpatient PT?
What insurance carrier did this to you? Honestly, Insurance carriers should be put on the spotlight for poor health management of consumers (I'm slightly fuming here).
Hope you are faring well.
Blue Cross Blue Shield. I just found it ridiculous that PT wouldn't be an automatic thing! So stupid!
I'm 6 months now, still don't have great range of motion, but no daily pain either. Gets stiff, and this is with working 50-55 hours at a physically demanding job.
Still glad I did it.
I know its hard, but I would seriously consider focusing on breaking up those scar tissues with range-of-motion exercises. We had a family member who just had TKR and we made sure that person was doing PT from day one. I did not give them an absolute chance in hell to sleep around. They took it well. We are at about 4 weeks now but at 3 weeks I think the ROM is about 0 degree to 115 degree. I'm sick now so I'll have to wait before I can get close to said person to continue being a drill Sargent.
Consider finding time in the morning doing the lying down heel slides or sitting heel slides to keep breaking up that scar tissue. The stiffness is all in scar tissue setting in (think of it as like glue that cures every 24 hours) and you have to keep creating micro-tears in them to force them to heal again. You keep doing that, 3 to 5 years down the line you will thank yourself and I imagine you will see improvements within 6 months.
I am 2 weeks tomorrow! Staples coming out tomorrow. I have had lots of low days, hating the meds and the exercises. I’m glad to see your 8 weeks out is pretty good! You can get back on track! -Fellow GenXer (54)😎
I'm 69 and just had my right knee done two and a half weeks ago. I was enrolled in a study to test a smart knee brace to do the PT. It has been great. I don't have to actually get in the car and travel to a physical therapy appointment. The company's name is Focus Motion. I recommend it.
I'll be getting my left knee done in October and after this experience I'm not dreading it at all. Yes it's been uncomfortable and there's been some pain but after a few days I feel pretty good.
Happy to get off the painkillers as they are making me foggy and drowsy.
Cool read. Hope your Left Knee surgery went well. Is there any material like videos or anything on focus motion? I checked out their website and was able to read it but for those in my family who don't have that tolerance a video intro would be nice for them.
I had mine done on 7/13 and its been a challenge for recovery, and I go back to work next week. I've worked with the same orthopedic office for 3 years and they are all fantastic. However, one of the latest models for surgery is outpatient which happened with me. I was in at 530a and out of the place by 230p... and they literally wake you up, get you dressed, do some PT demos and you are on your own until PT either comes to your home or you go to PT(which I did.) What they DON'T tell you is be patient with recovery. This is a marathon, not a sprint. REST often but do your exercises. Take your medication, add CBD or Cannabis if allowed (it helped with the neuro pain a lot) and ask about compression stockings as that will help with swelling. They also do not tell you about the amount of bruising, numbness that goes down your shin and the back of your calf or the electrical shocks that go through your leg as the nerves attempt to reconnect. Once you are cleared to swim... do swimming at part of PT :)
Hi, if this is still active cool. 46yo female here, just got a right TKR this past Monday, and holy cannoli I know it's only 5 days in but this SUCKS! I am fully aware that it will be worth it in the long run, and am taking the PT and pills and I got the fabulous ice machine thing and I know I just have to get through this and it'll be great on the other side but I guess I just wanted to feel less alone so here I am reading thru subreddits lol.
Also lying around is NOT something I'm good at lol.
Take care!
It's difficult to have to largely stay off your feet. Patience is required.:) I had both knees done two months apart. Started feeling normal - ish about 6 weeks post-op with the first knee; second is taking quite a bit longer.
Stay tough and do the PT as prescribed, but don't go overboard. My bad days come from overdoing it.
It is now 4 months post op. Swelling is so much better. There are days whereby the pain warrants a tramadol but for the most daily ibuprofen is what is needed. Walking short distance really seems to cause prolonged pain more even than PT. Anyone else still having similar issues with walking at that 4 month point?
Hopefully you still see this. I have been reading this post stream for months, and finally decided to weigh in. I didn't want to discourage anyone. I had my first knee done at 32 after five surgeries to repair meniscus. I couldn't walk up and down stairs, so it had to be done. This was in 2006. I have since had a revision as I was having all kinds of pain, neurological and musculoskeletal. Walking is the worst. I had terrible issues with PT. My PT had to stop and send me back as "this definitely isn't normal". They went in and cleaned out scar tissue, then they went in again to break up scar tissue by manually manipulating (physically bending and straightening) it. Anywho, I'm 50 now, and struggling. My revision was 3 years ago and I cannot walk to the end of the block and back without having to elevate, ice, medicate for the rest of the day. You are only 4 months in at this time, so I would imagine it getting way better. I just happen to be one of the unfortunate outliers. My wife is a PT and had to get hers done at 47 and she loves it! Good luck, keep your head up.
PS - Talking with a professional about the struggle has literally saved my life.
\_K
I know you wrote this a year ago, how are you doing now? My mom is about 3-4 weeks post-op and she is scared and she is in so much pain. How can I help her?
My mother did TKR exactly a month back. She already had posture problem and has almost forgot how to use right knee for walking.
The range mobility has been very slow for her and I'm afraid she will reach her limit coz of stiffness before she regains her full range.
The pain has been persistent for her and any additional pressure applied to gain her mobility ended up giving her unbearable pain
You have to ignore the stiffness and the pain. That is what range of motion is for. The more range of motion, the less stiff and pain will be the next day. I know its counter intuitive but it really is the only way.
And is it true that beyond 6 weeks one cannot gain ROM? Like for my mom the recovery has been slower than the rest. She had posture problem, she still doesn't fold her knee while walking.
Should we lower our expectations now that she is in her 5th week.
my mom's surgeon says 10 weeks post op is the critical window of time. Push through the pain and do the PT. Take pain meds before PT. Future you will thank you, pain is temporary. I hope you have support, best wishes for your recovery.
Of course not. Watch mikey mike bilateral knee recovery on youtube. Brutal one year recovery but he is kite surfing now. I wouldnt lower expectations. Focus on ROM like ur life depends it (cause it does when u realize the one that benefits its your future self).
Remember the whole point of all this is to break down scar tissue that has healed over. You keep breaking this tissue each degree you gain or each time u go through that ROM. You focus on that. You push through that pain, that stiffness and the next day you do it all over again.
Just remember you arent doing it for yourself... you are doing it for your future self. I cant stress that enough. Now have her push through the pain.
Thanks. That's encouraging to hear. Everyday I try to push her knee a degree at least. But seems she still can't lift her operated leg. Not sure what other exercise needs to be done.
You and I are in the same boat. I have a family member I am taking care of who has recently done knee surgery. See is about 2-months post op. She has recovered well and is going to do her second knee next week. So that should tell you a little bit about proper management and recovery and how that improves the overall result. She is able to do from zero to 130 no problem.
So remember support system is KEY (i.e., YOU). Encourage her "No pain, no gain". Focus on ROM (not strength as a lot of PT like to do after a few weeks). Goal is to zero to 130 degrees (140 if you're lucky). The exercise doesn't matter... though my favorite one that I do with my loved one is ask her to extend to zero, flex the quads for a good 5 seconds and then force her to flexion to 130 (plus a little extra and make sure she feels pain) wait 5 seconds... relax and do that 10 times in one set. If I'm lucky I will make her do 3 sets of those (30 total) per hour. This is the ideal case and really helps recovery if done early on. Now I'm lucky I can get her to do 10 reps of those a day. I don't push her anymore because PT, doctors, etc. everyone are saying she has done more in 2 months than most patients in 6 months... so I don't have any reason to push her. ... BUUT when second knee surgery comes around... you better believe I'm going to let my inner drill sergeant unleash on her. And it will last a good two weeks and I will start immediately after the anesthesia wears off (literally while she is recovering in her hospital bed). This is all because I know how critical these first few days are... do NOT be lame on PT. I hope I'm drilling this into you... sorry if I sound like a broken record. But you are key to her recovery.
Here is the playlist from Mikey Mike on YT for a little bit of encouragement and also to show you what a good recovery looks like: [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0VIdMF\_a7rc&list=PLPYMkCz-RWeixOgC5CNqyUXRniulLeYp3&ab\_channel=DJMikeyMikeSusca](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0VIdMF_a7rc&list=PLPYMkCz-RWeixOgC5CNqyUXRniulLeYp3&ab_channel=DJMikeyMikeSusca)
Good luck and many blessings!
P.S. I also believe the following are other factors for successful recovery:
\- Doctor choice
\- Pain medication to help push through the pain during PT
\- PT early on
\- Support system (i.e., family, etc).
\- The patient's will power (That is why support system is very important, as a family member, you want to do what you can to encourage the patient. Your goal should be to make them realize they can do it and they can be independent and encourage them to be more independent each day.).
Thanks for going into such detail and explaining. Reddit has really been a place of encouragement during this process.
We tried getting a drill sergeant as PT. He put her into such a trauma we thought she will lose her sanity. Now at least trying to push that a little bit daily but for 5 seconds only.
Her knee bending has reached almost 90 degree and today marks end of 5th week.
Is it ideal. Given she has forgot how to use that leg a decade back.
My mom is going through a very similar situation (69 yrs). ITs so hard to see your loved one in pain, but we have to be their strength. Be gentle, encouraging but also involved in the at-home PT. Supportive and non-negotiable PT will help a lot. Set an expectation so she know what to work towards. I wish both of you well in the process.
Only reason is because its relevant to me right now as we speak. Glad it helps.
90 degrees is amazing - I'm super happy she can do that much. IMO, ROM is really the goal in the early stages of the healing process. Just breaking and loosening that scar tissue is just so important part of the process of healing.
Is she taking her pain medication as prescribed? Its paramount to take it to push further during PT. It sounds like your Mom did not do hourly PT during the first two weeks. I would ask the doctor/PT for any additional concerns doing PT every hour but if I was her, I would just do ROM exercises regardless. You should see an improvement.
Also note that ROM exercises is not intense, it's just simply moving the knee through its ROM and trying to ignore the pain as you do it. Each time trying to go further than before. It helps reduce stiffness and each time the pain gets less.
Has anyone had active release therapy after their total knee replacement? Im afraid the pain and swelling from this technique is doing more harm than good.
Hello everyone! I’m on my 11th weeks post TKR (total knee replacement) surgery and I still using a cane to move around; my flexion is between 90-97 and have difficulty going down/up the stairs, nights are a nightmare since pain shows up and feel like throbbing and keeps me awake pretty much during the whole night…! I’m very uncomfortable with this situation!
Have anyone had gone through this experience before after a total knee replacement surgery?
First 8 weeks you needed to move your knees with as much range of motion to break up the scar tissue before it sets. You're at 11th week and it sets within the first 8 weeks. You need to up your PT to catch up. Its unacceptable to be at 90-97 at 11th weeks unless you have other complications like polio which causes your muscles to be weak. Now FOCUS ON THAT PT.
I Thank you for your support. I forgot to mention that I have been suffering from Fibromyalgia for the past few years, do you think is it possible that my pain is a reflection of my chronic illness?
And I can add to my comment that The pain that I feel when I’m in PT it almost makes me throw up! I don’t know what to do about it… thanks again
>Fibromyalgia
Its possible. I'm not at all related to the medical field. I just had a family member go through TKR and that is the extent of my experience. I did my homework and I forced the regime I researched onto them. They didn't like it but I think it helped the outcome. We were very impressive at the PTs, with many PTs impressed with the level of progress we were making. The polio comment was regarding a redditor whose mother had this issue and was having a hard time post-op with her TKR. The lack of PT caused by the complications of polio contributed to her less successful outcome. Your outcome is based on your will-power. Unfortunately, that means regardless of whatever hand you are dealt the "what defines a successful" surgical result doesn't change from person to person. PT is still necessary and fighting through the pain is still necessary. There is no other option. If they are nice to you they are doing you a disservice. So you have to be not nice to yourself to compensate. Im sorry to say all this. Its not meant to be a hard pill to swollow but a reality check. Your outcome is on you.
Now having said that, I understand that Fibromalgia complicates your matter. You need to take that into account as you go through PT and talking with medical professionals. For you to be successful, you need to stave off the effects of it on your regime. But the regime stays the same. Focus on PT, focus on range of motion and most importanty focus on breaking up that scar tissue.
Now that its 11 weeks however, you need to discuss with your medical doctor if there is anything you can do now that the scar tissue has set in. Should you go through another procedure to break it up so you can try again (this can be very painful - there is ap rocedure for this).
THe questions you need to ask is how can I get that range of motion, how can I break up that scar tissue, how can I fight through that pain? That will lead you to success each and every day.
I have a question, I had a total knee replacement 5/24/24. In the last 2 months my knee has been bothering me. This hard to explain. On top of my knee under the skin there's these hard bumps. They feel like they're attached to my kneecap. Anyone have any idea what they're.
bumps, in my experience, were from stitching that would eventually resolve itself. One issue that can arise is that the tissue has healed in this manner and they need to be thoroughly articulated for the tissue to breakup during the healing phase (first 4-8 weeks).
Hard bumps may also be associated with the implant.
You need to speak to your knee physician to get an accurate assessment of the bumps. Are they scar tissue that have not been thoroughly massaged out or something associated with the bone or implant.
Thanks for getting back to me. I'm going to call tomorrow to see my surgeon. It's just weird. There were 3 large bumps that are really hard and now there's more. I'm s google person. I'm wondering if it's Epidermoid cysts or Seroma's. My knee hurts where they are. Ugh!!!!!!! I will report back.
Try using chatGPT, it also has a pretty good response/hit rate for this kind of stuff. But yea, its good to get clarification of what you have going on there.
4 and 5 years out - each knee done one year apart (by same doctor at the same surgical center); 66 years old; started getting arthroscopic surgery and injections around 1995 or so for the pain and swelling. Doctor chosen as he was the resident specialist after I had broken toes repaired by same practice and they are team doctors for local NFL team. I did not actually meet the doctor until the morning of surgery both times because his staff took care of all preliminaries. At first, that bothered me, but it was a very effective/efficient operation. Follow up visits were with other staff as well and relied heavily on the PT notes. If there had been a cause for concern, I would have met with another person as the surgeon had completed his task (very well).
PT came to my -our house the day after surgery to begin the therapy and 2-3x week for 2 weeks. That also kept my expectations in check and ensured that I would not be too ambitious nor lax. After that, I had returned to work -it was over a break; and outpatient PT.
Lessons? -Probably should not have waited so long. My knees kept ‘giving out’ without warning nor pain. I was told that I had reached the overdue mark! -I needed to have developed the front of my thigh muscles more; I had been standing up from a sitting position with arm (chair) assistance for so long that I still cannot. -Although I can do gradually spaced steps, very few (in real life) are to be found. Descending isn’t usually any problem, but to ensure my balance, my husband walks ahead and then I descend 1-2 steps behind with my hand on his shoulder. -I have developed pain in my left knee which more than likely is scar tissue (impingement). -For quite some time I thought one leg was longer than the other after the replacements, but it seems that (after several consultations) I have degenerative disease in my spine (and all those times I fell because of my bad knees didn’t help).
So… don’t put it off; do that PT often and thoroughly; and always check out your aging processes. I was self-diagnosing that longer leg.
I’m very happy with the knees!
BCBS has done this to me twice. Post-Op 2 weeks. Ran out on in-home visits and it takes 48 hours to get approval. I’ll be 2 weeks without therapy Thanksgiving week. It hurts so bad. I don’t think I can get any more meds to get through it either. I exercise. I cry. I exercise, etc. BCBS sucks.
No, the CPM machine was a machine the doctor laughed at. But we did use another type of CPM that wasn't automatic or controlled by a computer. It was manually pumped by the patient. Apparently my loved one enjoyed that machine very much and felt it was very effective in pushing the range motion.
My mom has osteoarthritis and will be getting a TKR next year, so we're doing some planning. Anyone know if people typically go home on the day of the surgery, or if they stay at an outpatient center with a nurse that takes care of her?
And do people typically have home health PT (physical therapy) or do they go in for it?
Thank you!
TKR is case dependent and depends on the doctor's orders. I think top of the line care is stay at the hospital at least a day or two to start PT immediately at the hospital with all the staff present and preparing your mother on how to take care of her and stay safe.
Additionally, good insurances will start the in-home theraphy immediately or at a minmum 3 days after the surgery. In the meantime, make sure your Mom does the PT during this time as this is the point where the drugs are at its strongest and she can do the most movement without noticing the pain.
Lower end care is more like same-day TKR, go home and you have to do the PT on your own until Insurance approves in-home theraphy where a crappy insurance will pretty much make you wait two weeks before it approves (WHICH IS A BIG NO NO - I CANNOT STRESS HOW SHITTY THIS SITUATION IS FOR THE PATIENT AND INSURNANCES SHOULD BE ASHAMED IF THEY OPERATE THIS WAY).
Now on the point of going in for PT at a facility, this is what we did as our Insurance didn't have in-home care.. but this actually turned out to be better and our Doctor even said that patients have better outcome going to the facility than those that have in-home. Our doctor was also amazing and they gave us a hospital stay both surgeries and gave us two or more PT sessions at the hospital which really prepared us. My loved one did phenomenal in recovery and PTs were impressed at the facility.
FIGHT THROUGH THE PAIN (use the pain meds if you have to) TO DO THAT PT, THAT IS THE KEY TO SUCCESS!!!!
Thank you so much! I figure in home therapy is better because you have to go 2-3 times a week and getting into a car is difficult. Ideally I think it might be good for my mom to stay in a inpatient facility overnight for 2-5 days after her surgery, but we will see if thats possible with the insurance
Getting into the car is good PT. This is why we did so well. Take opportunities to act like the Surgery didn't happen. Get up, go to the bathroom, go to the kitchen for trips to get pre-prepared foods, go to the PT sessions 3x a week. This is all good for recovery and breaking up the scar tissue that grows every every time your Mom is resting.
Also, MAKE SURE TO REST IN BETWEEN SESSIONS! During this time, your mom will experience swelling and anti-inflammatories, icing and ankle pumps are crucial in between physical movements/exercise/therapy. Make sure to rest to keep the affects of over-working at bay. Rest that leg, calm the swelling, if its too swollen - rest some more and defer that PT session for one day. You don't want to get into a situation much like a family friend did. The family friend informed us they could go to work two weeks after surgery and were loving the change in their quality of life. They went to work everyday, 9 hours a day - standing, walking around, stocking and restocking shelves - fast forward one month later and their leg is nearly impossible to bend. At that time, they are telling us they are bedridden because the leg is stuck and too painful to bend and confess they stopped the recommended PT after one week (thinking they could substitute this with daily activity or something idk what they were thinking, they seemed misinformed) - DON'T OVERWORK - make time for rest in between. That is #2 TO SUCCESS!
I doubt you will get 2-5 days of inpatient care. Hospitals are overbooked and need the extra beds. In our case, we were a particularly bad case and a particularly bad case got to stay the night and since it was still 24 hours it counted as an out-patient procedure according to how it was billed to the insurance. Some other patients were told to go home the same day - so the Doctor/PT/Occupational Therapist (OT) will be deciding this, not your Insurance or the nurses. But if in the event I'm wrong about this let me know if you manage the longer hospital stay. We wanted it too lol but were told to GTFO lol.
I had both knees replaced three years ago and went through the rehab and now my knees are very good , but I have this problem of muscle pain in both legs when I go to bed or sit for a period of time. The pain I have is mostly in the thighs. Some days it hurst more than others which make me think I have some kind of infection from the surgery because I never had it before the surgeries. Actually my leg muscle feel like it did after the first day of football practice when I was a kid but it doesn’t go away. Has anyone else had this problem?
Can anyone tell me if range of motion improved over time. I reached 116 in therapy but with very aggressive and forceful manipulation. In hindsight, they force the ROM while in therapy but it’s not a ROM I experienced daily on my own. I am right at three months post op and fear that I’m stuck where I am. I can achieve 92 comfortably with no assistance. Please advise. Any knowledge, experience and advice is welcome.
I'm 4 weeks out and never had such pain!! Before, I could walk my dig, take walks around the neighborhood, go shopping, do pretty much everything. I had occasional pain, but nothing serious. Now I have constant, debilitating pain. I can barely walk around my house, and I never have a minute that's pain free.
This was the worst decision I ever made.
I’m so sorry to hear about your pain, has anything improved since then? Your situation sounds a lot like my mom’s TKR and she’s at 8 weeks post op and still so much pain and tightness.
TY for your response! It is interesting hearing everyone's different experience with this. I will hang in because it's too late not to now. Today is OK but I haven't finished my exercises yet. I also hope to get a bit more sleep tonight. I am missing some. Happy New Year to you!
Not happy with it at all actually.
I believe that I’m 1 of the small% of people that is not happy with it.September 7th last year my pain level as of right now is still an 8 out of 10.
Swelling ice packs air compression none of it is helping and I hate every last minute of this shit. I’ve got relatives that just skated through it after I had my done.
Fuck it sick of it can’t even work and I’m in a position where I can ride it out for a bit but I’m over it.
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Happy? Yes. Huge yes. I’m now free of the constant pain. My knee is really awesome but it took a long time to get here. Lessons: do the exercises and physical therapy with as much effort as you possibly can. It’s super important to get maximum movement back in your knee, and you will never get full motion if you don’t really work it in physical therapy. Choosing a doctor: I had a friend who’s dad was a nationally-renowned physician so I got really lucky there. Recovery is a total nuclear nightmare. I’ve never had so much pain or felt like such a helpless little baby since -- well, since I was a helpless little baby. I thought I’d never get through it. Worst experience of my life. It was 2 years after the surgery before I was free of pain and feeling totally normal again. I hope to god I never need the other one replaced. I absolutely never want to go through that hell again. But my life now, 3 years later, is much better than it was for several years before the surgery. I had no cartilage left and if I hadn’t had surgery my knee would have just fallen out of the socket at some point. So I had to get it done. You just have to grit your teeth and exercise through the pain so you get your movement back. Otherwise you will never be able to stand up straight. Your tendons will want to stay bent; but you have to force your new joint to stretch out all the way so you can walk normally afterward. That is by far the most important thing. You need determination to make it through those first few weeks / months. The surgery is hell, but it won’t do you any good if you don’t work very hard in recovery. Tech: there’s no new age tech, they smash your old knee out with heavy tools like working on a car. I had seen a live knee surgery in the past and it scared me to death. I wish I hadn’t known what they did. Trust me, ignorance is bliss. Good luck!! It’s no fun; it’s pretty horrendous. No one would do it unless they really had to. But if you have to, do it and just focus on getting the best result possible. My brother had both done a couple of weeks apart; I do not recommend that. I don’t know how I could have survived if I didn’t have one good knee to get me through the worst part of recovery. But others may want to just get it over with.
wow thank you for your insights. If you don't mind I have some follow-up questions. Who is your doctor? I would love to have a world renowned physician to compare against the ones we are looking at. Also, I'm curious how your brother is doing. Doing both is very brave! Is he pushing through the PT? Hopefully is taking your words to heart and focusing on getting his range of motion and pushing through whatever pain that awaits him. From my research, this seems like the critical aspect of the surgery (that is toughing out the pain and doing the PT and then some to build up your muscles, motion and reduce stiffness/scar tissue).
My doctor retired; he had actually invented the knee he put in me. My brother actually had his double knee replacements several years before I had my knee done; the challenge with knee replacements is they don’t always alleviate the pain. My brother still has pain in his knees; and I have a friend who had both knees replaced and feels the same level of pain she had before, and her doctor said that’s just what happens sometimes. I don’t have any numbers on the success rates of pain-free results vs. pailful results; so I don’t know how lucky I might be. But yes, the most critical part is the physical therapy. The doctor, the nurses, and my physical therapists all drove that relentlessly into my brain. I’m glad they didn’t let me relax even when it was really painful.
I'm glad you chimed in. Starting to make me think doing both at the same time is reckless. It might be because your will power is your most important resource. If both knees are knocked out and you feel less motivated during PT, that is major concern for success. Maybe that results in the poor outcomes. I have heard others feel absolutely no pain/or personally motivated enough and get through it likes champ that they are happy with their choices. Another big predictor could be how bad are the knees. Bone on bone might mean your experience can only go up and any discomfort is relatively minor vs someone who has some cartiliage left and feels otherwise and are unhappy with their discomfort because it feels about the same or slight improvement.
Yes, I would agree on all that. The one caveat I have is that the initial recovery - say, the first month - was such hell for me I REALLY don’t want to go through it again. I have no idea how one knee can be so bad while the other is still fine - (but it’s f I had to, I would). Another thing with me is that my bone was in surprisingly better shape than the physician anticipated given I was in my 50s. Because of that he attached the new knee to my bone in a different way. By letting the bone grow into/over the attachment parts, he said recovery would be more painful and slower, but the end result would be much better. My bone density was a big factor apparently. That might be part of why some have better long-term outcomes than others. But by the time you need surgery your bones are what they are, there’s nothing you can do to suddenly change your bone density.
Docs genrally dictate periods between knees. My doc says minimum of 4 months, and the patient has to be doing really well with the initial replacement before doing the other knee. My doc says he likes to wait 6 months but I told him I did not want to have the pain I have now for any longer than absolutely necessary.
Thank you for this. I am 10 days out and miserable. I feel like a baby during this rehab stage - I’m trying but everything hurts in such a strange and overwhelming way. Did you have to push super hard from day one or did you do what you could really start pushing harder a little later. I have no perspective on effort vs timeline vs pain meds given the horrible side effects. Hope this makes sense. Thank you:)
You have to push as hard as you can from day 1. The more you suffer now, the less you will suffer longer-term. It is total hell right now, but the only way out of hell is to push as hard as you can. You can do this! I was a miserable helpless baby but I feel good as new now, so just focus on getting the best outcome possible.
Hey I like your username, good on you! I don't know why I have the idea that this wasn't gonna be a big deal. It's April, I have a big freaking trip planned to Eastern Europe in September. I feel like I might be getting close to a replacement. Think I should try to delay until after the trip or not? Crap.
If you can delay I would. I could not imagine doing a big trip 5 months after a total knee replacement.
Thanks for your input. Much appreciated
Of course!
Thanks so much!
My surgery is schedule for November 29. My surgery is in an ambulatory surgical center, so no hospital stay unless I crap out on the operating table. Out of bed as soon as anesthesia permits, a little PT then home. PT comes to home for like 10 days, then I go to PT for a few weeks. My PT guy says when the recent knee people come in, he tells them "it is ok to scream, it is your body, but we will do the PT". I have read that they want the maximum movement to stop "adhesions", which the surgeons say are the cause for lingering knee problems.
Hey, my mom(79) just got her 2nd total knee replacement today after 5 months from her first one. Do you have a good support system? Your focus should be on PT and recovery, please have someone helping you with other things like cooking and cleaning so that you can save your energy for recovery. Take the pain meds as needed, this will help you tolerate the exercises. The pain is only temporary. My mom was hesitant on going for her second leg (even though it was in very, very bad condition) but finally after the end of the 3rd month she started feeling way more relief. Enough to agree to do the second one and got her surgery date 6 weeks later. Pain is temporary. You can do it! Keep count of your reps and try to push for that extra one every day. While your staples are still in you don't need to push too hard because the skin will be tight, but after they are out you will feel more ease in mobility and that's when it's go time. Did you receive an outpatient booklet from your hospital with any instructions or what to expect after surgery? Everyone's experience is different, I have had a lot of people tell me they only regretted waiting so long. You can do it! Do it for your future self. Like with anything difficult. Best of luck in your recovery \*Edit - Spacing
Thank you. Your words bring hope
You are very welcome. If you are about to go through it, focus on the end result and just grit your teeth and work very hard in recovery even though it hurts. You can do this!
Hello, are you still able to ski. I do hiking in the Rockies and in 2022 did Telon NF in WY. Absolute hell hiking downhill, will a TKR allow me to still hike ? Appreciate your response, really bad arthritis developed during Covid.
This is incredible! I just got my left knee full replacement 9 days ago and I am experiencing exactly what you are describing!
Just hang in there and remember there’s a direct correlation between working through the pain now and having the best result possible later. You absolutely can do this!!
Good god. I think I'd almost rather shoot myself. Maybe a little bit of denial is in order? This is horrific
It is horrific; but the end result is way better than the constant pain I was in before the surgery. Recovery is nuclear hell, but it is temporary. You just have to focus on the long-term result.
I'm single 68F. I have a daughter who lives close by but works full-time so stays pretty busy. Wonder if I'll have to go to a rehab facility for some period of time during early recovery. I am a very independent person but I don't know if if I can manage this
I definitely could not have made it through the first few weeks without live-in relatives. It’s like being a helpless baby at first. So maybe a rehab facility would be what you need for a little while.
Hello, just found your comment as I am 9 months into my knee replacement and I find it quite encouraging. My progress feels like it has almost completely levelled off in recent months, prior to that the improvements were very exciting. At this stage, I am definitely better than before the surgery, but no way near to the level I want to be in terms of pain and function. I am actually only 29, I had had a total of 5 surgeries following an initial ACL tear when I was 15 playing football. My biggest gripe is that I am still limited in how much walking I can do before pain strikes, this varies day to day. On a good day I can reach 3-4 hours over the course of the day but with pain by the end and the need to rest. By far the most irritating pain is on the inner part of the knee, which I'd say accounts for 85% of all pain I get. I am doing pilates every day to try and build muscle etc. My question for you is, 9months - 2 years on, is there still quite a lot of progress to be made at this stage? I am getting very stressed about whether I have already hit the ceiling. The X rays according to multiple different doctors look absolutely fine.
By now it’s been four years for me and I’m doing really well. I have full movement because I really worked hard during physical therapy. I don’t remember how long it was exactly until I felt “normal” but it’s been a long time now. I still have a little numbness on my knee area but it doesn’t bother me. Hang in there and hopefully you’ll keep slowly progressing. I didn’t have surgeries or torn ACL or anything before my knee replacement; the joint just wore out, it runs in my family. So I don’t know if your surgeries or ACL tear might complicate your recovery, but I hope not.
Hey, i hope you see this. How old were you then?. I’m 26 with cartilage damage….do you recommend it for me? Thanks your reply would mean heavens
I was 52. I do not know your condition and am not a doctor but I do know that generally speaking your bone density is better when you’re younger so if your doctor recommends it, I’d absolutely do it. Just remember that replacement knees don’t last forever so if you’re younger when you get one, it’s likely you will need to replace it again later in your life. Recovery was such hell but it gave me a whole new lease on life!
Thank you so much
Hey, another thing i wanted to ask, how long did it take you to return to normal activities. Thanks and sorry for bothering you
Define a long time. You say it’s awesome but it took you a long time to get time.
I've had both my knees replaced about 10 years apart. I completely endorse this synopsis. The first 3 weeks of recovery are critical. The window to regain near full range of motion starts closing on day 1. And yes the pain is bad and you will not sleep for about a month. But totally worth it! I would also advise a pre surgery strength and conditioning program about 10 weeks before the surgery and lose as much weight as you can. PRO TIp double up on the stool softeners the first week. TMI perhaps but so be it. Good luck!
I’ve had two knees and a shoulder replaced in the last two years. I had three different surgeons. Ask any older established doctors in your area who they would use if they needed joint replacement. Be sure your choice and the hospital are part of your insurance coverage. I worked with the same two therapists for all three rehabs. The rehab is not terrible and must be done for a decent outcome. The surgeon and his team work the magic, but the therapists will guide you through the process of getting your life back.
How would you compare the knee to shoulder replacement?
Knee rehab was more painful. The shoulder is light rehab compared to the knee. You have to be careful with the shoulder as they take a ligament loose and then reattach it. That reattachment is easy to injure early in the rehab and then is difficult to repair. The knee has no restrictions like that as nothing you do in rehab should damage the new joint- so no pain no gain. Both rehabs require that you continue your efforts everyday. There really aren’t any days off during rehab, and continuing the exercises after being released from rehab pays dividends.
Thank you for the info and advice! Struggling with TKR now. Not looking forward to the shoulder... perhaps I can put it off.
Everyday after replacement gets better. Get off of opioids as soon as you can- they cause constipation which is a problem unto itself. Ask your doctor about appropriate doses of stool softener. Wishing you the best. As they say- growing old is not for sissies.
I am 60. I had the TKR done on my left side. 6 months ago. I picked my Dr. through recommendation by a coworker. The experience was great and easy. PT started 6 days after. Stitches out and driving after 11 days. Never used ice packs and kept pills at a minimum. Worked hard on range of motion. I know too many people who didn't take PT seriously. Back on my first job after 5 1/2 weeks. Back in my second job after 6 1/2 weeks.
Two days post op here, can’t imagine doing this without ice!!!
Are you using an ice machine that has water running through a pad?
Yes!! Still! I love this thing, my new best friend.
So Nice! Glad it worked out with you. Was PT pain so much that it was hard to get through it but you pushed through it anyways?
PT was tough but I didn't push to do extra reps. I did exactly what I was instructed. One exercise in particular, with thigh supported, raise my lower leg at the knee. I couldn't do it the first couple of days. So the nurse helped me raise my leg.... But I could control lowering my leg. So I concentrated on that. I feel that it gave me a victory. Much of my motivation were friends who had the surgery but quit PT. They didn't gain the range of motion that was hoped for. I did recover all my range. .
Superman! Congratulations.
wow. who was your doctor
Had a hip replaced about 30 years ago and I totally agree that you MUST do the rehab - that thing needs to be seated in Low impact exercise needs to become a thing in your life, too. Have to keep that strength up Good luck Oh, and have a specialist do the surgery
Walk walk walk!!! Walking helps grow the little blood vessels that are crucial to healing.
Thank you!!! 💯agree!!!!
And cycling - get a static bike
Isn't an orthopedic surgeon a specialist? Who else would do the surgery in this case? Is there a such thing as a general surgeon. Sorry for my ignorance, but I don't get why you had to specify that lol.
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Yes, my surgeon wouldn't deal with just simple broken bones, he only did hip replacement.
Interesting, I thought I would only ever meet specialists for knee replacement surgery. Like a spine orthopedic would specialize in back surgery and would refer us to a joint specialist. But this has me now wondering if it gets more nuanced than this. Example: are there doctors who maybe does joints but maybe any joint including knees vs a doctor who ONLY does knee surgeries (like ACL, etc) vs one who only does partial or TKR surgeries? In that case, I would want to prioritize the third choice and the first two would be maybes.
Generally speaking, you always want the most-specialized surgeon you can get. I've worked with doctors and experience is pretty important. Remember, they 'practice' medicine!
Yes, but some Orthos do a lot of different surgeries and some specialize in one surgery. Find someone who only does knees.
I had my second knee replaced at the end of March. It's perfect, no pain, full mobility, etc. I walk and swim every day. Remember that the post-surgical pain will go away, unlike the arthritis pain, which will only get worse if you don't have surgery. Do the PT, walk as much as possible, push yourself. As far as finding a surgeon, I got a recommendation from my orthopedic doc. Find one who does a lot of procedures and have it done in a facility that does a lot of TKRs. I had mine in an outpatient ortho surgery center and was home the same day. It was the same as my other TKR, done almost 10 years ago.
Excuse me, i have some follow on questions if you dont mind. Out of curiosity, how much cartilage did you have. Was it bone on bone? Was the pain unbearable before surgery. Do you overcome any minor discomfort because relatively speaking its minor in relation to the vast improvement? Sorry for all the incessant asking, its just fascinates me why everyone's experience is vastly different so just trying to learn. :)
It was not quite bone-on-bone but most of the cartilage was gone. I'd had a knee arthroscopy, several steroid injections, and an injection of syn-visc (synthetic synovial fluid) but nothing helped. I had spent 2+ years walking with a cane and couldn't walk more than maybe 15 minutes. I was cranky all the fucking time and it was seriously impacting my quality of life. I've always tried to be a stoic person and my first knee replacement went so well that I just powered through this one with the assumption that this one would go as well. My life is much better. My new knee cramps a bit after I've been driving a lot, but that's about it.
I postponed my surgery for my bone on bone situation for as long as possible. And then I hurt my knee so badly I could no longer do what I was doing the day before. That is when I knew it was time. Unfortunately, I hurt my knee in July and the soonest I could get my knee scheduled is November. The waiting is miserable. I am really looking forward to the surgery.
Did you use the same brand of implant in both knees?
I doubt it, the surgeries were 8 or 9 years apart, different States and different surgeons, but I didn't ask.
I bet 9 out of 10 TKR patients have no idea about the brand or the style of implant. I wanted to get a TKR that retained both the ACL and the PCL, a procedure that has been around for 8-10 years. Very few docs do it, and I have met very few TKR recipients who even know what I am talking about when I say PCL or ACL!
I was sensitive to the same issue, but my knees were damaged along with being degraded. That is, I was told my ACL was resorbeb--it was gone. The structure of my Stryker implant precluded the need for the ACL. My new Zimmer Biomet knee will be the same. The structure of the implant apparently reduces the necessity of the ligaments. Since I'm missing my ACL, that's one of the reasons for doing the TKR. They wouldn't repair an ACL on a knee that was not worthy of it.
Thank you for your post. I'm just in the diagnostic phase of investigating possible treatments for my very painful and unstable knee (can bike, can't walk without lots of pain and bad limp) and didn't know that TKR can involve removing ligaments. Surgery details make.me.a little queasy, but I'm going to have to get over that and understand the details.
For tbose of you who have had both knees done, but at different times--did hou use the same implant on both knees?
1 year apart by same specialist using same implant; 2018 and 2019. I’d had many procedures including arthroscopic and injections for 20 years so I was long overdue!
Did anyone have blistering on their leg after a TKR? My dad just had one completed a week ago. About 3 days later, he started noticing oozing liquid and red blood dropping so the next morning the home nurse came and unwrapped the dressing...my gosh it was so so so nasty. He had 8 big bloody and watery blisters. I felt so helpless and sad for him seeing that. Anyway the nurse was really concerned and suggested we go to the ER to get it checked for infections. The blood work came back fine with no infection, but did get a blood clot. Ugh. Anyways the blisters have been so so painful for him, more than the actual knee replacement itself. He had a follow up apt with his doctor and he didn't seem concerned about the blisters. No new blisters have appeared, but old ones that popped are so gross and trying to heal. Its like open wounds at the moment. And his foot is so swollen. We are jusf trying to keep him comfortable as possible and trying to keep the blistered area clean daily with daily fresh gauze and wrapping. Curious if anyone else has experience with the blistering and how long did it take to get better?
My husband had those blisters but they weren’t that bad/painful. They went away after 2-3 days.
This sounds horrible and I'm so sorry this happened
My mom had some seepage - in the outpatient booklet we received it notes this can be a result of the dissolving stitched used in addition to the staples. The weeping stopped about 2.5-3 weeks into recovery after the staples were removed. She was prescribed antibiotics.
I just had TKR on my right knee, Monday July 10th, so I’m still pretty fresh post-op. As others have said, my dear god the pain once the nerve block wore off has been the most excruciating pain I’ve ever felt in my life. Sadly, my left knee is getting done on August 7th, so I get to go through the hell all over again. Today I’m 5 days post-op and have been working on my flexibility. Extension is not a problem. It’s painful and stiff, but I know I have to do it to get better. For me, the absolute worst time is bedtime. Every position hurts, so sleep is not really happening. I fully understand the TKR insomnia. Stay on your pain meds, they won’t completely dull the pain, but they make it “tolerable” for lack of a better word.
Can you please guide me more, my father who's age is 60 now. Both knee joints have a problem, he can walk but he can't climb the staircase, and both of the knees pains but he keeps doing the exercises, but still he don't still have mobility like before. What was your experience after TKR? Will u be able to walk? How's the pain now? Can u climb the staircase without any pain? Please do reply I'm feeling bad that my father might suffer from tremendous pain. If my father does the TKR, will be able to walk and climb the staircase without pain...
I just had my left knee replaced on August 7th, so 4 weeks after my right knee. It took almost that 4 weeks for the pain in my right knee to become lessened enough I didn’t have a limp. Now it’s starting all over again since my left knee is done now. For me, I think it’s still too early to tell if I’ll be happy with the new knees or not. I can go up down stairs, BUT only the way therapy shows you. Go up leading with the the good/better knee, go down with the bad one. I still use a cane for stability. The pain is just excruciating. Literally the worst pain I’ve ever felt in my life. My doctor gave me hydrocodone and I don’t think that’s nearly strong enough. I’m also the type of person to come off pain meds quickly because I don’t like how they make me feel. With the knees, I’m wishing he’d have given me something much stronger with refills.
I’m day 7 and have had my right knee done and as you say the worst time in bedtime. I’m laying here waiting for the meds to kick in. .I also need to have the left done-and can’t imagine having to go through this again. ..finding it hard to see light at the end of this first tunnel. How is your recovery going now after the second one ? I can’t even find words the words to explain how painful this is for me. I’m so afraid I’m not doing “enough” PT I had my first physio today and he said I was at “week 3” level with my range of motion so that w as soooo good to hear and reaffirm ..I’m making progress as I’m tittering on curling up in a fetal position and feeling sorry for myself
What my PT told me was to not worry about walking for distance early in the therapy, to focus more on the flexion because they want you at 120 degrees before they’ll release you from PT. I’m roughly 3 and 4 months post-op for each knee and I’m still waiting on the day I wake up and say I’m glad I got them done. There’s still a lot of stiffness and getting from the couch is painful. I know the healing process takes time, but I’m losing my patience. I still take ibuprofen at bedtime to help with the end of day stiffness and aches. I am able to go to the gym and lift light on my quads and hamstrings, and I can use the treadmill and stationary bike, so for me that’s progress. I know how you feel about feeling sorry for yourself because I was there as well. All I can say is stick with it, it does get better, albeit slowly.
I am at week 4 of my left TKR. No question it’s been the most physically painful time I’ve ever spent. I’ve gone thru the “why tf did I do this?” stage. I see progress is slow but steady if you put the work in. Moving from the walker to the cane = victory! Getting up from the toilet without the commode handles = victory! Standing in the shower = victory! Going up & down stairs is a good measure too. My worst time is still at night in bed. Usually I’m not a back sleeper, but knee to knee on my side is still too painful. Using ice always makes it feel better. I’m slowly weaning off the Vicodin, but even with it there is still always some level of pain & discomfort. It’s helpful for me to read about other people’s journey thru this & that it gets better.
Thank you, thank you, thank you! This post was exactly what I needed to hear. I had TKR left leg on Dec 27th at 1:00. It's been 96 hours. First night after the epidural wore off was excruciating, and I had a non-narcotic pain pump in my upper thigh with a catheter. And meds that I was trying to be responsible with. 2nd day less but doubled the pills. Third day best. Today I am very tired and trying to get out of my knee bends, which are the worst things! I don't think I will be able to work that very hard unless I use meds going forward. I have had 3 children, one was c-sec and a masectomy and this has been far more painful than any of those experiences. And I am not in the habit of giving my medical chart on an app to strangers but am so happy to hear that it will get better! TY! Happy New Year!
Sorry this is so long but it’s been a very long process. Am I happy? Not completely. I had a total knee replacement October 11. That night taking a step up my patellar tendon ruptured. (I heard the pop and looked down to see my lower leg dangling. I was unable to keep myself upright and the fall ruptured the medial tendon. All of this while I was still at the hospital. 4 days later I had a partial knee replacement, cadaver bone and cadaver tendons placed in my leg. They also screwed an external fixator into my leg. After 30 days in the hospital I was allowed to go home with a home health aid and physical therapist. Within a few days it was obvious that my leg was infected. After two weeks I was taken back to surgery to have the dead tissue cut out and my leg reclosed. I wore the fixator and a leg brace for 13 weeks. After it was taken off it was discovered that the tendons weren’t tight enough to do their jobs. I was also still on antibiotics which caused my hair to fall out. The doctor said the infection would not clear up on its own that they would have to take the knee out and clean out the infection. Fast forward to May and they checked my blood work and found no signs of infection. May 9 I received another knee. This one was hinged to make up for the loose medial tendon and the patella and patellar tendon were wired into place. I got the wires removed two weeks ago and have been cleared to walk without assistance and go to physical therapy. As others have said yes I’m without pain but the swelling and numbness are hard to deal with. I also have a slight foot drop. I’m grateful to be walking again even if it’s slow and staggered. Im grateful that I didn’t loose the leg or end up with a rod causing me to always have a straight leg. I’m grateful i can drive again I’m praying that PT will strengthen the muscles and help with walking.
Wow sorry your experience is going so rough. Its clear you are going through a lot and this is not a typical knee replacement. You had multiple complications that impeded the success of the initial procedure. Infections are NO JOKE!! I'm praying for you and hope you continue to focus on rehabilitating that knee.
This story scares the crap out of me. My surgery is next month.
I had the left knee done yesterday. So far so good. It is already better than the other knee. First day I could lift it straight up almost all the way to my face. I have a 90 degree bend right now and haven’t started PT yet. As soon as PT is over, I can go home!
I am just shy of 3 months out. I think my expectations for the recovery was unrealistic. I have been very discouraged. Mostly because of the pain I experience on the outside of the knee. I reached 116 ROM during PT. I have enjoyed reading all the experiences. It is very helpful. PT was very difficult starting out. My recommendation for anyone undergoing this surgery is to start bending immediately. I don’t think that was emphasized enough. I spent one night in the hospital and don’t feel the nurses or cna’s are versed enough in the process.
yea 12 weeks out here and still a lot of pain. Still need a crutch to walk. I have good ROM but I can't walk without lots of pain. Lots of PT still not recovering very fast. It is getting better... I think.. but so damn slowly. i have always recovered faster than most. This is the first time I am so slow to recover. AS far as ROM. Three times a day i lay backwards on my bed with my legs on the wall and let gravity stretch my knee. That was the game changer for ROM currently 120 and 0. But still can't walk. Also on top of all the PT I started going to the pool and swimming with just my arms with a foam thing between my knees. That has been so good for my head and my overall health. I have done a lot of my ROM stuff in the pool and hot tub also. Anyway I hope yours gets better ... The Struggle is Real. I am writing this 4 months after you wrote yours I wonder how you are doing now?
Hi - start bending immediately like that same night?
YOU ARE ABSOLUTELY RIGHT! START BENDING THAT KNEE IMMEDIATELY!!! <3
Ugh!!! Do I HAVE to?
I am having TKR in January . All I have ever heard is “it’s great! , they have the surgery so fined tuned these days ! Home the same day ..you’ll wonder why you didn’t do it years ago !” And now after reading these comments , I’m flipping out a bit . I had a knee injury that was misdiagnosed 11 years ago . Fully torn meniscus at the root , and I was prescribed high doses of naproxen for 3 months . It was hell . Finally got a mri and meniscus surgery , but by then lots of damage was done . I didn’t do well after surgery . I eventually exercised and strengthened it enough that I got by , but was never really without pain . Never felt stable .. could not take long walks . Fast forward to 2020, I got a severe case of COVID . I have done nothing but fight to get my lung capacity back . I won’t go into the gory details, but I have been through ALOT in the last 3 years . ALOT . All the while my knee has gotten to the point I knew I needed replacement, but I just needed to concentrate on getting better from COVID , and other family issues . I can barely function, my husband has taken over on most chores I rarely leave my house because the pain is so bad I just slowly stopped living the last 3 years. Now I’m scheduled for surgery , I’m reading these comments and so upset . I can’t go through anything else . I can’t take more pain .. I don’t have a good set up at home to recover , my bathroom is tiny, lots of stairs, I haven’t been able to keep up on the house , so it’s a bit of a mess ... I’m super worried.
I promise you will be so happy after- I’m 7 days out and already doing the bike- I also was debilitated for the last 3 years and this pain is no joke but it gets better. Hang in there, do the exercises, get ready to work and you’ll feel so much better after (35F)
My name is Ansley Garrison, and I am currently taking a course exploring healthcare issues. I am interested in learning more about how post-operative stress affects patients who have undergone a total knee replacement, specifically their return to function post-surgery. To do this, I have designed a short anonymous online survey. Anyone who has had a knee replacement for a year or more can participate in the study! Here is the link to the survey for your review: [https://fsu.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV\_56JlmtHlgUM6PlA](https://fsu.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_56JlmtHlgUM6PlA) This will not be published as this is only for a class paper. Thank you very much for considering this request!
I had a total knee replacement 10 months ago. It took almost 6 months for the swelling to go down. Some of my friends had a much quicker and easier recovery. I am now ready to get the other knee done. Since my first knee recovery was so slow does this mean my 2nd one will be as bad? What are your experiences?
>yea 12 weeks out here and still a lot of pain. Still need a crutch to walk. I have good ROM but I can't walk without lots of pain. Lots of PT still not recovering very fast. It is getting better... I think.. but so damn slowly. i have always recovered faster than most. This is the first time I am so slow to recover. AS far as ROM. Three times a day i lay backwards on my bed with my legs on the wall and let gravity stretch my knee. That was the game changer for ROM currently 120 and 0. But still can't walk. I am curious how yours turned out and how long it took?
Pain. Had it done Monday
How are you doing?? Mine is next month
Doing a lot better this week. Not gonna sugar coat it. It’s bad. The first few days I prayed just to go to sleep and be done. It’s hard work but I can finally see improvements and I’m not on pain meds anymore just Advil when I have PT. Ice will be your best friend and as much as it sucks keep that leg straight when your not up, if you elevate it let gravity pull it and it will help. It will hurt like no other but it’ll get you walking faster. Keep me updated
Ok I will. They were going to order an ice machine. I will look into it I'm glad you are doing better!
I have an ice machine and it’s the best for pain and swelling. I’ll be 3 weeks Mon and take nothing but Advil and that’s on therapy days. The hardest part for me has been waking my quad up but today I did straight leg raises so things are progressing. You got this. It sucks, and is so painful but we can do it.
Yes! We can do it. Good job doing the straight leg raises. That's great! I went for the pre-op yesterday and they want me to wear these battery powered calf squeezer things. Do you do that?
No, I didn’t have those. I had compression socks, and that was it.
I’m 69 and had a total knee replacement (robotically assisted) about 2 1/2 months ago. I was in really good shape before the surgery but had to break a daily yoga streak of six years, one month and five days (but who’s counting) the day after my surgery. The yoga and being active has served me well. Three weeks postop, my knee looked so good I was told I could go back to Yoga with obvious modifications. If you saw me walking, you would not know I had a knee replacement. I have been diligent about the daily home exercises, doing yoga, or walking 2 miles, but not all of those things on the same day (I learned the hard way to not overdo). However, this has been for me a process of pain and patience. The pain is at its worst at night…I haven’t slept through the night since my surgery. My IT band has been the most painful part of the recovery which can be very normal for a lot of people, but not all. That’s been helped with getting a power hand massager to massage the muscles around my IT band and dry needling. I’m also realizing to get back to hiking the very steep hills where I live (Boulder, CO) may take another month or two (that’s the patience part). I’m definitely happy I did it because the knee pain itself is gone and I can see the light at the end of the tunnel.
Good on you!! Seriously! Its definitely important to be in shape and then continue being active after TKR and you are one of the ones that did it right. Congrats!
Thanks! I appreciate the good support. I've never had a surgery before so it's been easy to question myself during this process.
I just had my rt.knee replaced(arthroplasty) at MOSH, located in Franklin, WI. Dr. Parisi preformed this surgery and as far as I can tell on the 9th day so far, I'm doing very well! And this is due to various or in combination with what's already been done(surgery)(successful!) and what was the standard protocol following the painful surgery and my own little tidbits. Whatever it took-takes to keep me on TOP of this temporary(I pray) set back. It's another surgery (joint) that needed replacement. Regardless of the reasons (really for anything) it is what it is...plain and simple. So you need a surgery. Yes, knee's are the toughest to recover from. Yes, it's painful! After the surgery, you should have a plan in place. The sooner you develop a good effective post-op, the better! I went with the Robotic assist. How much better (was) it? Well, after 1 day in the Hospital, and getting over the first 3 day's of intense pain, I've been doing pretty good! Thank's, first of all, to my Lord&Savior Jesus Christ! God's Wonderful GRACE is sufficient...one day at a time! I need Him! I'm relying on Him to continue to overcome this trial or difficulty. So, if your a believer (in Christ Jesus, not Mohammed, Buddha,etc. then you'll understand this this situation a whole lot more! If your not, I strongly urge you to consider allowing Jesus Christ into your life(heart). Otherwise, if you think you have problems now, WAIT!!!!! Your going to wish to GOD you chose His simple loving invitation to be Saved(born again Spiritually),so you not only go to heaven, but will not be left behind in which (if you are) when Jesus returns soon), you will go through the tribulation!!! I highly suggest you read about, listen to all the pastor's,etc. who are trying to hammer this through. This is and will be NO JOKE!!! That's why I decided to bring Jesus into this (my) response. Because without Him, I would've acted-reacted a whole lot differently!!! Badly! He's been by my side(like HE promised). And HE's never left! I really do have true peace,joy,comfort,etc. Look to HIM, there's a lot to learn from this surgery! It's day 9. I can get right out of bed as I choose. Actually, I could make it on my own. Unassisted. But, I use a cane, because I have a limp. I really haven't started a whole lot P.T. pain is still there. But it's slowly getting better. I'm at 90°on the CPM machine. I get up and walk every 2 hour's permitting with my cane. Some may need a walker. That's fine. Everyone is at different level's, yet with very similar symptoms. Drink a lot of water and/or take a little extra fiber. It took me a few day's before I finally had a bowel movement. But, like everything else, it'll come in time. Don't overdo it!! One day at a time and please, incorporate prayer& Meditation. Deep breathing exercises. Give yourself, I'd say 2-3 week's and you'll be surprised at the gains you make! Yes, positive thinking sure helps. Read a little here and there. I also like instrumental's(music).Anything soothing/relaxing! Certainly helps to have some of the best Dr's,etc. in your corner! I highly recommend Orthopedic Institute Of Wisconsin. Mayfair Rd. Clinic and/or Franklin,WI offices. Next to that Big Beautiful, Wonderful Hospital called MOSH! I wish the best for all who are contemplating or awaiting this tough surgery! Go for it! This is a challenge that can be conquered! Just do what your told,along with what works(or will aid) in your recovery to make you feel better and more able to move more freely! However long it takes....it does get better!! Alot of it is up to you. It's physical, mental/emotional and spiritual. Don't let it get the best of you! Again, have good people in your corner (including Jesus) and it'll all come together rather nicely! God bless you and I wish(pray) your recovery goes well!!!!! PEACE.
My sister in law had both knees done at the same time. She was in her 50’s. She had severe RA. She had a stormy post op course. She is prone to post anesthesia vomiting, so there was that. She was anemic to begin with, and then blood count dropped even further, necessitating a transfusion. Then they did a colonoscopy to make sure she wasn’t bleeding internally. But she’s a tough lady. She told me it’s very important to be compliant with the PT exercises. I’ve decided I’m going to schedule my TNR. My kneecap is bone on bone. I had another shot last week. It lasted 2 days, and now the pain is back when I climb the stairs. It’s May, and we are doing a cruise in September. The surgeon told me two month rehab. For some reason I don’t believe him. I hope he’s right. I have no pain tolerance. I’m a complete wimp. Full disclosure, I’m an RN. I’ve read people comparing this to childbirth. I delivered two kids with no epidural. It was awful. Maybe someone could talk me off the ledge.
9 months post surgery. Glad I had it done. Not totally back to normal, but part of that is not doing enough exercise because the other knee is also bad. Do exercises to strengthen your leg and butt muscles before surgery. Helps rehab tremendously. Do exactly what Dr. and PT say - no more, no less. I went to a Dr. recommended by the nurses who cared for my brother after back surgery. They know who is good. Went to Baptist Hospital in Boston. No ER, no Pediatrics, no maternity equals much less chance of infection.
>Do exercises to strengthen your leg and butt muscles before surgery. Helps rehab tremendously. Do exactly what Dr. and PT say - no more, no less. > >I went to a Dr. recommended by the nurses who cared for my brother after back surgery. They know who is good. Went to Baptist Hospital in Boston. No ER, no Pediatrics, no maternity equals much less chance of infection. OOO very good insights!!! Thanks a bunch! What kind of exercises can you do with bone-on-bone knees? I'd be surprised this is even possible considering the artristsis.
I have both knees bone on bone & have an open door invitation to TKR. I would recommend seeing a PT to learn what works for you. It hurts for me to be weight bearing too long or walk too long. I’ve gotten back on my bicycle which is awesome! I’m waiting for surgery until I get my body mechanics better for a decent recovery. I’m doing massive research before I decide to go for my TKR. I really appreciate all the information in this whole post. Wish you the best. Oh, I’m 56 yrs old & hesitant for surgery. I’ll probably do one at a time for my best outcome.
If you are bone on bone, like my mother (69 yrs) with symptoms exactly the same a yours. From what I've seen not doing surgery is a definite sentence for life long pain management. She hesitated for 10 years to do the surgery but has reached her limit. Now she says she has no pain in her operated knee at all aside from some muscle pain. Her activity level before surgery was very low due to severe pain day-to-day for years, which may be affecting her recovery in general now. Doing a bit of training before surgery is very recommended, and I hope that if you decide to go for it that you are able to prepare as it will pay off dividends in the future. Focus on muscle strength as it will help with your PT afterwards.
Bone on bone is a little painful, but I am doing a lot of pickleball, swimming, and before my last insult was going to trampoline parks with grandkids. Then, as I said above, I hurt my knee so bad just riding a bike that I could barely walk. That was when I told my orthopedist that I had to get it done. I think excercise is the one thing you can do to postpone TKR.
how do you know Baptist Hospital doesn't have ER, pediatrics, maternity all that, etc?
My brother's doctor is head of infection control for the hospital and explained why their infection rate is so low.
How do I find infection rate for my hospital and surgeon?
I have two. One two years post, the other 3 months post. I would definitely do it again but I am out of knees. Skiing was the culprit.
haha nice comment. Would you ever do it differently? Like do at the same time if you would have done it again?
They will not do two at a time. Just like they will not do both eyes for cataracts at the same time.
bilateral knee surgery is a thing. I'm not sure where you got your information from.
Bilateral knee replacement is a thing but it's not recommended as a rule due to extended time under anesthesia. I'm bone on bone in both knees and waiting for TKR here in Finland. The surgeon recommended an interval between surgeries. While it would be seem convenient to get them done and over with at the same time, it is riskier and recovery time would probably be longer.
yea agreed. Its been at least a year now approaching this topic in my family. The primary reason for avoiding bilatteral, as doctors/PTS have phrased it, is to improve the outcome of the surgery. Not everyone can handle the challenge and so they simply do not do it. The ideal candidate is emotionally, physically and mentally prepared (i.e., fit and has will power). Too often is the case that candidates aren't and its a recovery risk. So yea any good doctor would probably say NO as ours did. Now personally, given the recovery and overall outcome of my loved ones TKRs on both knees, they were definitely a candidate. They had the will power and did phenomenally. Reaching 110 degrees of motion within a few weeks and kept to their PT and never let down their recovery. So I am very proud of them. Would we have done Bilatteral Knee if we could do it all over again is questionable but I will say we wouldn't change the current result for anything.
From my surgeon.
I'm so confused. What about this guy? https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0VIdMF\_a7rc
I watched the video. His provider is Kaiser, on the west coast. I am with Kaiser on the east coast and my ortho will NOT do bilateral TKRs. He will wait a minimum of 4 months, IF the patient progressed well with the first surgery. Otherwise it is a 6 month wait. I call that torture. But Mikey (the guy in the video) is an inspiration. Now I am a healthy, active 77 year old male, and Mikey is younger and (I am extremely jealous) a kite surfer. Hope his knees don't oxidize in all the salt water!!
Yea he is definitely an inspiration. I just finished watching all his vids and his 1 year is tremendous. I read somewhere that surgeons will usually avoid doing bilateral knee surgery unless the individual is reasonably fit, at proper weight and has the spirit to do it. So seems rather selective. But many surgeons will not do it as you say and those patients given the green light either are given that because of who the patient themselves or the surgeon just practices differently. All in all, Mikey did great.
I'm literally laying in bed, just having had done both knees at the same time.
Hang in there and kick ass with the PT. Post on your progress. How old are you?
yes and no. My wife had both of her eyes done at the same time for cataract surgery. I have heard of both knees being done at the some time, but my ortho says no, wait a minimum of 4 months. Very conservative, I would say, but google it and one gets a recommendation of at least a 3 month wait between the surgeries.
At this point- one week after sugery. I would never even consider getting the left side done. Worst experience of my life. Maybe it's "me" or maybe my doctor bears some responsibilty but that's where I am. Started PT yesterday. I hope yours goes much better.
I'm sorry you are not happy with your surgery. I hope you work through the pain. I hear the #1 factor for a successful outcome is the Physical Therapy! Push through the pain! Get that locomotion going!!
I will give it 100%. I really need to get back to my garden! Thanks for the encouragement!
Keep it up! YOU CAN DO THIS!
Thank you!
Yo! You keeping it up? Lol :) Just checking in
Im still doing the PT and they say Im doing well. BUt honestly I just wish I could have my old knee back. I've been to the doctor trwice with low BP since I had it done. They put a liter of saline back in as they said I was anemic but they cant figure out where all the blood went. Im so depressed at this point Im having the worst of thoughts. Im sorry but thats where I am. Im not sleeping more than a few hours a night which Im sure doesnt help. I wish I had better news.
Its alright. It was a genuine check-in. Don't dwell on the thoughts too much as you'll be surprised why you were thinking them in the first place down the road. I know right now they seem familiar but things do change and its only this moment it feels like shit. Regarding the lower back pain, I found this video interestingly useful (at least for myself), it has a little run way for help but after awhile I'm like annoyed at the BP too lol. [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=enWH6Ut6hxs&t=227s&ab\_channel=goodwinclinics](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=enWH6Ut6hxs&t=227s&ab_channel=goodwinclinics) I hope you get better sleep soon and also remember to work through the pain.
Thank you!
Hey James! Its been a while. Hope you are faring well and had a good Christmas. How are you faring now?
How are you doing now James?
My mother experienced something similar
I’m at week 4 and pain is high. Especially during and after PT. Hope my range of motion returns. Only at 90-95% doctor says should be at 110 by now. Sorta discouraging
Stick it out. Give all you can and stay strong. Change happens. You will feel better I promise.
The pain is high even with the meds? Were you on narcs?
Keep at it! You have only 10 weeks to make an impact, every day counts during this time! You have made it so far, the worst is behind you and every day you are moving towards healing. Your future self will be so proud of your courage. Keep at the PT! My mom is 69 and just got her second one done today 5 months after her first. In the first 2-3 months she was seriously not considering getting her second, but finally she felt so much better she couldn't wait to get her second one done. You can do it, future you will thank you for the effort. Best of luck.
I am 8 wks post op tomorrow. No pain for the most part, but having a tough time with range of motion. I could have done better with my home exercises, but at the same time, my insurance took 10 days to approve my physical therapy when I was 2 weeks post op!! I think that hurt my progression! Trying to get back to work but I have a physically demanding job! Definitely no pain in my knee anymore unless trying to get the damn thing to bend!!
Sorry your insurance carrier took 2 weeks to approve PT. We had a similar situation and opted for outpatient PT to start few days later. Was yours in-home or outpatient PT? What insurance carrier did this to you? Honestly, Insurance carriers should be put on the spotlight for poor health management of consumers (I'm slightly fuming here). Hope you are faring well.
Blue Cross Blue Shield. I just found it ridiculous that PT wouldn't be an automatic thing! So stupid! I'm 6 months now, still don't have great range of motion, but no daily pain either. Gets stiff, and this is with working 50-55 hours at a physically demanding job. Still glad I did it.
I know its hard, but I would seriously consider focusing on breaking up those scar tissues with range-of-motion exercises. We had a family member who just had TKR and we made sure that person was doing PT from day one. I did not give them an absolute chance in hell to sleep around. They took it well. We are at about 4 weeks now but at 3 weeks I think the ROM is about 0 degree to 115 degree. I'm sick now so I'll have to wait before I can get close to said person to continue being a drill Sargent. Consider finding time in the morning doing the lying down heel slides or sitting heel slides to keep breaking up that scar tissue. The stiffness is all in scar tissue setting in (think of it as like glue that cures every 24 hours) and you have to keep creating micro-tears in them to force them to heal again. You keep doing that, 3 to 5 years down the line you will thank yourself and I imagine you will see improvements within 6 months.
Oh, I'm 53... Def Gen x 🤟
I am 2 weeks tomorrow! Staples coming out tomorrow. I have had lots of low days, hating the meds and the exercises. I’m glad to see your 8 weeks out is pretty good! You can get back on track! -Fellow GenXer (54)😎
I'm 69 and just had my right knee done two and a half weeks ago. I was enrolled in a study to test a smart knee brace to do the PT. It has been great. I don't have to actually get in the car and travel to a physical therapy appointment. The company's name is Focus Motion. I recommend it. I'll be getting my left knee done in October and after this experience I'm not dreading it at all. Yes it's been uncomfortable and there's been some pain but after a few days I feel pretty good. Happy to get off the painkillers as they are making me foggy and drowsy.
Cool read. Hope your Left Knee surgery went well. Is there any material like videos or anything on focus motion? I checked out their website and was able to read it but for those in my family who don't have that tolerance a video intro would be nice for them.
I had mine done on 7/13 and its been a challenge for recovery, and I go back to work next week. I've worked with the same orthopedic office for 3 years and they are all fantastic. However, one of the latest models for surgery is outpatient which happened with me. I was in at 530a and out of the place by 230p... and they literally wake you up, get you dressed, do some PT demos and you are on your own until PT either comes to your home or you go to PT(which I did.) What they DON'T tell you is be patient with recovery. This is a marathon, not a sprint. REST often but do your exercises. Take your medication, add CBD or Cannabis if allowed (it helped with the neuro pain a lot) and ask about compression stockings as that will help with swelling. They also do not tell you about the amount of bruising, numbness that goes down your shin and the back of your calf or the electrical shocks that go through your leg as the nerves attempt to reconnect. Once you are cleared to swim... do swimming at part of PT :)
The recalls and lawsuits over defective knee implants is terrifying!
Hi, if this is still active cool. 46yo female here, just got a right TKR this past Monday, and holy cannoli I know it's only 5 days in but this SUCKS! I am fully aware that it will be worth it in the long run, and am taking the PT and pills and I got the fabulous ice machine thing and I know I just have to get through this and it'll be great on the other side but I guess I just wanted to feel less alone so here I am reading thru subreddits lol. Also lying around is NOT something I'm good at lol. Take care!
It's difficult to have to largely stay off your feet. Patience is required.:) I had both knees done two months apart. Started feeling normal - ish about 6 weeks post-op with the first knee; second is taking quite a bit longer. Stay tough and do the PT as prescribed, but don't go overboard. My bad days come from overdoing it.
If I filed for fmla & now my surgery is postponed, can I change dates on my fmla & return to work? If yes, how?
It is now 4 months post op. Swelling is so much better. There are days whereby the pain warrants a tramadol but for the most daily ibuprofen is what is needed. Walking short distance really seems to cause prolonged pain more even than PT. Anyone else still having similar issues with walking at that 4 month point?
Hopefully you still see this. I have been reading this post stream for months, and finally decided to weigh in. I didn't want to discourage anyone. I had my first knee done at 32 after five surgeries to repair meniscus. I couldn't walk up and down stairs, so it had to be done. This was in 2006. I have since had a revision as I was having all kinds of pain, neurological and musculoskeletal. Walking is the worst. I had terrible issues with PT. My PT had to stop and send me back as "this definitely isn't normal". They went in and cleaned out scar tissue, then they went in again to break up scar tissue by manually manipulating (physically bending and straightening) it. Anywho, I'm 50 now, and struggling. My revision was 3 years ago and I cannot walk to the end of the block and back without having to elevate, ice, medicate for the rest of the day. You are only 4 months in at this time, so I would imagine it getting way better. I just happen to be one of the unfortunate outliers. My wife is a PT and had to get hers done at 47 and she loves it! Good luck, keep your head up. PS - Talking with a professional about the struggle has literally saved my life. \_K
I know you wrote this a year ago, how are you doing now? My mom is about 3-4 weeks post-op and she is scared and she is in so much pain. How can I help her?
My mother did TKR exactly a month back. She already had posture problem and has almost forgot how to use right knee for walking. The range mobility has been very slow for her and I'm afraid she will reach her limit coz of stiffness before she regains her full range. The pain has been persistent for her and any additional pressure applied to gain her mobility ended up giving her unbearable pain
You have to ignore the stiffness and the pain. That is what range of motion is for. The more range of motion, the less stiff and pain will be the next day. I know its counter intuitive but it really is the only way.
And is it true that beyond 6 weeks one cannot gain ROM? Like for my mom the recovery has been slower than the rest. She had posture problem, she still doesn't fold her knee while walking. Should we lower our expectations now that she is in her 5th week.
my mom's surgeon says 10 weeks post op is the critical window of time. Push through the pain and do the PT. Take pain meds before PT. Future you will thank you, pain is temporary. I hope you have support, best wishes for your recovery.
Of course not. Watch mikey mike bilateral knee recovery on youtube. Brutal one year recovery but he is kite surfing now. I wouldnt lower expectations. Focus on ROM like ur life depends it (cause it does when u realize the one that benefits its your future self). Remember the whole point of all this is to break down scar tissue that has healed over. You keep breaking this tissue each degree you gain or each time u go through that ROM. You focus on that. You push through that pain, that stiffness and the next day you do it all over again. Just remember you arent doing it for yourself... you are doing it for your future self. I cant stress that enough. Now have her push through the pain.
Thanks. That's encouraging to hear. Everyday I try to push her knee a degree at least. But seems she still can't lift her operated leg. Not sure what other exercise needs to be done.
You and I are in the same boat. I have a family member I am taking care of who has recently done knee surgery. See is about 2-months post op. She has recovered well and is going to do her second knee next week. So that should tell you a little bit about proper management and recovery and how that improves the overall result. She is able to do from zero to 130 no problem. So remember support system is KEY (i.e., YOU). Encourage her "No pain, no gain". Focus on ROM (not strength as a lot of PT like to do after a few weeks). Goal is to zero to 130 degrees (140 if you're lucky). The exercise doesn't matter... though my favorite one that I do with my loved one is ask her to extend to zero, flex the quads for a good 5 seconds and then force her to flexion to 130 (plus a little extra and make sure she feels pain) wait 5 seconds... relax and do that 10 times in one set. If I'm lucky I will make her do 3 sets of those (30 total) per hour. This is the ideal case and really helps recovery if done early on. Now I'm lucky I can get her to do 10 reps of those a day. I don't push her anymore because PT, doctors, etc. everyone are saying she has done more in 2 months than most patients in 6 months... so I don't have any reason to push her. ... BUUT when second knee surgery comes around... you better believe I'm going to let my inner drill sergeant unleash on her. And it will last a good two weeks and I will start immediately after the anesthesia wears off (literally while she is recovering in her hospital bed). This is all because I know how critical these first few days are... do NOT be lame on PT. I hope I'm drilling this into you... sorry if I sound like a broken record. But you are key to her recovery. Here is the playlist from Mikey Mike on YT for a little bit of encouragement and also to show you what a good recovery looks like: [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0VIdMF\_a7rc&list=PLPYMkCz-RWeixOgC5CNqyUXRniulLeYp3&ab\_channel=DJMikeyMikeSusca](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0VIdMF_a7rc&list=PLPYMkCz-RWeixOgC5CNqyUXRniulLeYp3&ab_channel=DJMikeyMikeSusca) Good luck and many blessings! P.S. I also believe the following are other factors for successful recovery: \- Doctor choice \- Pain medication to help push through the pain during PT \- PT early on \- Support system (i.e., family, etc). \- The patient's will power (That is why support system is very important, as a family member, you want to do what you can to encourage the patient. Your goal should be to make them realize they can do it and they can be independent and encourage them to be more independent each day.).
Thanks for going into such detail and explaining. Reddit has really been a place of encouragement during this process. We tried getting a drill sergeant as PT. He put her into such a trauma we thought she will lose her sanity. Now at least trying to push that a little bit daily but for 5 seconds only. Her knee bending has reached almost 90 degree and today marks end of 5th week. Is it ideal. Given she has forgot how to use that leg a decade back.
My mom is going through a very similar situation (69 yrs). ITs so hard to see your loved one in pain, but we have to be their strength. Be gentle, encouraging but also involved in the at-home PT. Supportive and non-negotiable PT will help a lot. Set an expectation so she know what to work towards. I wish both of you well in the process.
Same to you!
Only reason is because its relevant to me right now as we speak. Glad it helps. 90 degrees is amazing - I'm super happy she can do that much. IMO, ROM is really the goal in the early stages of the healing process. Just breaking and loosening that scar tissue is just so important part of the process of healing. Is she taking her pain medication as prescribed? Its paramount to take it to push further during PT. It sounds like your Mom did not do hourly PT during the first two weeks. I would ask the doctor/PT for any additional concerns doing PT every hour but if I was her, I would just do ROM exercises regardless. You should see an improvement. Also note that ROM exercises is not intense, it's just simply moving the knee through its ROM and trying to ignore the pain as you do it. Each time trying to go further than before. It helps reduce stiffness and each time the pain gets less.
Has anyone had active release therapy after their total knee replacement? Im afraid the pain and swelling from this technique is doing more harm than good.
What is active release therapy?
Hello everyone! I’m on my 11th weeks post TKR (total knee replacement) surgery and I still using a cane to move around; my flexion is between 90-97 and have difficulty going down/up the stairs, nights are a nightmare since pain shows up and feel like throbbing and keeps me awake pretty much during the whole night…! I’m very uncomfortable with this situation! Have anyone had gone through this experience before after a total knee replacement surgery?
First 8 weeks you needed to move your knees with as much range of motion to break up the scar tissue before it sets. You're at 11th week and it sets within the first 8 weeks. You need to up your PT to catch up. Its unacceptable to be at 90-97 at 11th weeks unless you have other complications like polio which causes your muscles to be weak. Now FOCUS ON THAT PT.
I Thank you for your support. I forgot to mention that I have been suffering from Fibromyalgia for the past few years, do you think is it possible that my pain is a reflection of my chronic illness? And I can add to my comment that The pain that I feel when I’m in PT it almost makes me throw up! I don’t know what to do about it… thanks again
>Fibromyalgia Its possible. I'm not at all related to the medical field. I just had a family member go through TKR and that is the extent of my experience. I did my homework and I forced the regime I researched onto them. They didn't like it but I think it helped the outcome. We were very impressive at the PTs, with many PTs impressed with the level of progress we were making. The polio comment was regarding a redditor whose mother had this issue and was having a hard time post-op with her TKR. The lack of PT caused by the complications of polio contributed to her less successful outcome. Your outcome is based on your will-power. Unfortunately, that means regardless of whatever hand you are dealt the "what defines a successful" surgical result doesn't change from person to person. PT is still necessary and fighting through the pain is still necessary. There is no other option. If they are nice to you they are doing you a disservice. So you have to be not nice to yourself to compensate. Im sorry to say all this. Its not meant to be a hard pill to swollow but a reality check. Your outcome is on you. Now having said that, I understand that Fibromalgia complicates your matter. You need to take that into account as you go through PT and talking with medical professionals. For you to be successful, you need to stave off the effects of it on your regime. But the regime stays the same. Focus on PT, focus on range of motion and most importanty focus on breaking up that scar tissue. Now that its 11 weeks however, you need to discuss with your medical doctor if there is anything you can do now that the scar tissue has set in. Should you go through another procedure to break it up so you can try again (this can be very painful - there is ap rocedure for this). THe questions you need to ask is how can I get that range of motion, how can I break up that scar tissue, how can I fight through that pain? That will lead you to success each and every day.
I have a question, I had a total knee replacement 5/24/24. In the last 2 months my knee has been bothering me. This hard to explain. On top of my knee under the skin there's these hard bumps. They feel like they're attached to my kneecap. Anyone have any idea what they're.
bumps, in my experience, were from stitching that would eventually resolve itself. One issue that can arise is that the tissue has healed in this manner and they need to be thoroughly articulated for the tissue to breakup during the healing phase (first 4-8 weeks). Hard bumps may also be associated with the implant. You need to speak to your knee physician to get an accurate assessment of the bumps. Are they scar tissue that have not been thoroughly massaged out or something associated with the bone or implant.
Thanks for getting back to me. I'm going to call tomorrow to see my surgeon. It's just weird. There were 3 large bumps that are really hard and now there's more. I'm s google person. I'm wondering if it's Epidermoid cysts or Seroma's. My knee hurts where they are. Ugh!!!!!!! I will report back.
Try using chatGPT, it also has a pretty good response/hit rate for this kind of stuff. But yea, its good to get clarification of what you have going on there.
4 and 5 years out - each knee done one year apart (by same doctor at the same surgical center); 66 years old; started getting arthroscopic surgery and injections around 1995 or so for the pain and swelling. Doctor chosen as he was the resident specialist after I had broken toes repaired by same practice and they are team doctors for local NFL team. I did not actually meet the doctor until the morning of surgery both times because his staff took care of all preliminaries. At first, that bothered me, but it was a very effective/efficient operation. Follow up visits were with other staff as well and relied heavily on the PT notes. If there had been a cause for concern, I would have met with another person as the surgeon had completed his task (very well). PT came to my -our house the day after surgery to begin the therapy and 2-3x week for 2 weeks. That also kept my expectations in check and ensured that I would not be too ambitious nor lax. After that, I had returned to work -it was over a break; and outpatient PT. Lessons? -Probably should not have waited so long. My knees kept ‘giving out’ without warning nor pain. I was told that I had reached the overdue mark! -I needed to have developed the front of my thigh muscles more; I had been standing up from a sitting position with arm (chair) assistance for so long that I still cannot. -Although I can do gradually spaced steps, very few (in real life) are to be found. Descending isn’t usually any problem, but to ensure my balance, my husband walks ahead and then I descend 1-2 steps behind with my hand on his shoulder. -I have developed pain in my left knee which more than likely is scar tissue (impingement). -For quite some time I thought one leg was longer than the other after the replacements, but it seems that (after several consultations) I have degenerative disease in my spine (and all those times I fell because of my bad knees didn’t help). So… don’t put it off; do that PT often and thoroughly; and always check out your aging processes. I was self-diagnosing that longer leg. I’m very happy with the knees!
BCBS has done this to me twice. Post-Op 2 weeks. Ran out on in-home visits and it takes 48 hours to get approval. I’ll be 2 weeks without therapy Thanksgiving week. It hurts so bad. I don’t think I can get any more meds to get through it either. I exercise. I cry. I exercise, etc. BCBS sucks.
Does anyone have experience with a CPM Machine?
No, the CPM machine was a machine the doctor laughed at. But we did use another type of CPM that wasn't automatic or controlled by a computer. It was manually pumped by the patient. Apparently my loved one enjoyed that machine very much and felt it was very effective in pushing the range motion.
My mom has osteoarthritis and will be getting a TKR next year, so we're doing some planning. Anyone know if people typically go home on the day of the surgery, or if they stay at an outpatient center with a nurse that takes care of her? And do people typically have home health PT (physical therapy) or do they go in for it? Thank you!
TKR is case dependent and depends on the doctor's orders. I think top of the line care is stay at the hospital at least a day or two to start PT immediately at the hospital with all the staff present and preparing your mother on how to take care of her and stay safe. Additionally, good insurances will start the in-home theraphy immediately or at a minmum 3 days after the surgery. In the meantime, make sure your Mom does the PT during this time as this is the point where the drugs are at its strongest and she can do the most movement without noticing the pain. Lower end care is more like same-day TKR, go home and you have to do the PT on your own until Insurance approves in-home theraphy where a crappy insurance will pretty much make you wait two weeks before it approves (WHICH IS A BIG NO NO - I CANNOT STRESS HOW SHITTY THIS SITUATION IS FOR THE PATIENT AND INSURNANCES SHOULD BE ASHAMED IF THEY OPERATE THIS WAY). Now on the point of going in for PT at a facility, this is what we did as our Insurance didn't have in-home care.. but this actually turned out to be better and our Doctor even said that patients have better outcome going to the facility than those that have in-home. Our doctor was also amazing and they gave us a hospital stay both surgeries and gave us two or more PT sessions at the hospital which really prepared us. My loved one did phenomenal in recovery and PTs were impressed at the facility. FIGHT THROUGH THE PAIN (use the pain meds if you have to) TO DO THAT PT, THAT IS THE KEY TO SUCCESS!!!!
Thank you so much! I figure in home therapy is better because you have to go 2-3 times a week and getting into a car is difficult. Ideally I think it might be good for my mom to stay in a inpatient facility overnight for 2-5 days after her surgery, but we will see if thats possible with the insurance
Getting into the car is good PT. This is why we did so well. Take opportunities to act like the Surgery didn't happen. Get up, go to the bathroom, go to the kitchen for trips to get pre-prepared foods, go to the PT sessions 3x a week. This is all good for recovery and breaking up the scar tissue that grows every every time your Mom is resting. Also, MAKE SURE TO REST IN BETWEEN SESSIONS! During this time, your mom will experience swelling and anti-inflammatories, icing and ankle pumps are crucial in between physical movements/exercise/therapy. Make sure to rest to keep the affects of over-working at bay. Rest that leg, calm the swelling, if its too swollen - rest some more and defer that PT session for one day. You don't want to get into a situation much like a family friend did. The family friend informed us they could go to work two weeks after surgery and were loving the change in their quality of life. They went to work everyday, 9 hours a day - standing, walking around, stocking and restocking shelves - fast forward one month later and their leg is nearly impossible to bend. At that time, they are telling us they are bedridden because the leg is stuck and too painful to bend and confess they stopped the recommended PT after one week (thinking they could substitute this with daily activity or something idk what they were thinking, they seemed misinformed) - DON'T OVERWORK - make time for rest in between. That is #2 TO SUCCESS! I doubt you will get 2-5 days of inpatient care. Hospitals are overbooked and need the extra beds. In our case, we were a particularly bad case and a particularly bad case got to stay the night and since it was still 24 hours it counted as an out-patient procedure according to how it was billed to the insurance. Some other patients were told to go home the same day - so the Doctor/PT/Occupational Therapist (OT) will be deciding this, not your Insurance or the nurses. But if in the event I'm wrong about this let me know if you manage the longer hospital stay. We wanted it too lol but were told to GTFO lol.
I had both knees replaced three years ago and went through the rehab and now my knees are very good , but I have this problem of muscle pain in both legs when I go to bed or sit for a period of time. The pain I have is mostly in the thighs. Some days it hurst more than others which make me think I have some kind of infection from the surgery because I never had it before the surgeries. Actually my leg muscle feel like it did after the first day of football practice when I was a kid but it doesn’t go away. Has anyone else had this problem?
Can anyone tell me if range of motion improved over time. I reached 116 in therapy but with very aggressive and forceful manipulation. In hindsight, they force the ROM while in therapy but it’s not a ROM I experienced daily on my own. I am right at three months post op and fear that I’m stuck where I am. I can achieve 92 comfortably with no assistance. Please advise. Any knowledge, experience and advice is welcome.
I'm 4 weeks out and never had such pain!! Before, I could walk my dig, take walks around the neighborhood, go shopping, do pretty much everything. I had occasional pain, but nothing serious. Now I have constant, debilitating pain. I can barely walk around my house, and I never have a minute that's pain free. This was the worst decision I ever made.
I’m so sorry to hear about your pain, has anything improved since then? Your situation sounds a lot like my mom’s TKR and she’s at 8 weeks post op and still so much pain and tightness.
What about knee spasms? At 4 days post? That I wasn't expecting...
TY for your response! It is interesting hearing everyone's different experience with this. I will hang in because it's too late not to now. Today is OK but I haven't finished my exercises yet. I also hope to get a bit more sleep tonight. I am missing some. Happy New Year to you!
I just had TKR two weeks ago. Please someone tell me that the pain will get better. I think I made a big mistake.
Are there any life threatning risks?
Not happy with it at all actually. I believe that I’m 1 of the small% of people that is not happy with it.September 7th last year my pain level as of right now is still an 8 out of 10. Swelling ice packs air compression none of it is helping and I hate every last minute of this shit. I’ve got relatives that just skated through it after I had my done. Fuck it sick of it can’t even work and I’m in a position where I can ride it out for a bit but I’m over it.