I Think I'm in Trouble - TKR

May 30, 2011

Hi Everyone!

I'm hoping for a bit of advice...had a total knee replacement on 29 Mar 11. Doc

used minimally invasive procedures and computer aided navigation. I was doing

well, 95 flexion until my 4th week, when I tripped and, according to OS, gave

myself a manipulation without benefit of anaethesia. I have to say, I've had

lots of surgeries, and this trip by far outweighed any of the pain associated

with them. I saw stars, haze, phew...it was horrible. Doc switched me to

Percoset, told me to proceed with PT no matter what.

Four weeks have passed. I still have swelling...especially the outer area at

the bend of the knee. It's starting to loose some of the hardness, but the pain

when I raise my leg, try to bend it, is really nasty. The Percoset doesn't help

much, which surprises me. Sleep is horrible. And worst of all, my flexion has

dropped to 83.

My PT is very well known to me...she's a PhD and really understands my weird

muscle disease and fibromyalgia. She is laying the blame at the door of both,

plus she's telling me I'm guarding my knee. Honestly, I'm not trying to, the

knee doesn't want to bend, I'm working at it, doing my exercises several times a

day and icing it. Plus I'm massaging the scar according to the book recommended

here.

I probably should have called him 2 weeks ago when I wasn't improving, but I

thought it would take time...but to me, backsliding to this degree is not

acceptable. I will see him on Thursday.

Any pointers on what to expect from the OS...better what, what I should expect

he'll do (he's pretty matter of fact and doesn't spend that much time, but this

visit, he's going to have to come up with a plan of action.) If he suggests a

manipulation, I think I shall go out and have a few drinks! )

Anyway, I know this is long...but I do need your help.

Many thanks!

Lynn

LTHR Oct 09

RTKR Mar 11

ps. Any newbies, please do not be frightened by my story...due to the

dermatomyositis, things are always a little different and not always by the book

for me...listen to the others here. They all have a wealth of knowledge that's

invaluable!

Life itself is the proper binge. - Child

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