Guest guest Posted July 7, 2007 Report Share Posted July 7, 2007 I'm new here, facing I don't yet know what with my knee/knees. I've had a bad knee for over a year, thinking it would heal itself. It didn't. Bone on bone stuff going here. Imagine my surprise when I figured out I cannot walk well on only one leg! Anyway, this post by Ann has given me something to ask the doctor about when I go see him, if I need knee replacement, which it wouldn't surprise me if I do. This looks like a great place for information. I'm a woman, 61, married to a great guy, 4 grown kids, 3 grandsons, two dogs, two cats, a bird. Thanks, Janet > > Because of their wider pelvis, women have a greater Q angle at the knee than men. Most knee implants don't take this into account so all of a sudden the lesser Q angle puts pressure on the femur in a different place, and could cause trouble with the hip joint eventually. OTOH, some women have knee problems because of their wider Q angle and probably should get a femoral implant with a Q angle less than their natural one, but not by so much that it would cause problems with the hip joints. Someone just posted saying that her legs are straight now, that she had been knock-kneed before. I assume this is because she was given a male femoral implant. > > Ann > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted July 16, 2007 Report Share Posted July 16, 2007 Janet, I am 53, great DH, 1 grown daughter, 2 cats:)I had a RTKR on April 26, and today, life is SO much better than it was pre-op, I wonder why I delayed so long. My right knee became more and more painful beginning in 2001. I saw the ortho doc in May 2006, and after a series of Supartz injections didn't really help, I still put off the surgery. Many here say you will KNOW when you're ready for surgery. I was bone-on-bone for many months, but mid-March this year, the pain became SO intense, the only way I can describe it is that it felt like an ice-pick being jabbed into the knee. The transition from sitting to standing and vice-versa was absolutely the most pain I've ever experienced, even more than labor. The first two weeks are very difficult. I don't think many here would say they didn't have any days of " WHY DID I DO THIS?? " But one month out, you'll hopefully have already set aside the walker for a cane; two months out, you really know (if all goes well) that you've done the right thing but I understand that it takes the better part of a year to say one has " recovered " . I'm now at 3+months out, and the one thing I really have yet to iron out is walking down steps in a normal fashion, but that gets better with every PT session. I can now walk upstairs without holding on to the banister! Good luck with whatever you decide. Regards from NWFlorida, Robin --- " Janet " wrote: > > I'm new here, facing I don't yet know what with my knee/knees. I've > had a bad knee for over a year, thinking it would heal itself. It > didn't. Bone on bone stuff going here. Imagine my surprise when I > figured out I cannot walk well on only one leg! > > Anyway, this post by Ann has given me something to ask the doctor > about when I go see him, if I need knee replacement, which it > wouldn't surprise me if I do. > > This looks like a great place for information. > > I'm a woman, 61, married to a great guy, 4 grown kids, 3 grandsons, > two dogs, two cats, a bird. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted August 12, 2007 Report Share Posted August 12, 2007 Hi ,Knee pain is just starting to crest as Boomers begin to deal seriously with chronic pain issues. Documented evidence of arthroscopic knee surgeries failing to reduce local arthritis progression suggests that the causative factor is in the tension in the muscles crossing the joint, resulting in abnormal joint weight-bearing and consequent laying down of new bone to accommodate increased "weight," as well as painful inflammation. Replacing infrastructure of the knee does not address chronic leg tonicity or pain-compensated postural changes at the spine. The problem of maintaining relative full ROM in the new knees remains. Replacement surgery adds another level of inflammatory pain and resistance to full ROM. You could manipulate the knees daily and trace the compensation to the spine and correct those dyskinesia regularly, but giving your father a series of simple resting postures is more efficient, and addresses the problem of peripheral and central tonicities. These postures, which can even be done in bed, lengthen all muscles crossing the knees, hips and pelvis, as well as the spine from tip to tail. Coupled with mindfulness training that addresses Buddha's admonition that, "Pain is inevitable, suffering is optional," one learns to let go of the stories we all carry about our aches and pains that contribute to their centrality and persistence in our fields of attention. Early post-surgical rehab with weight-bearing activities to the legs without addressing the pre-existing tonicities just perpetuates the problems, imho. An accessible and effective daily routine will also enrich a patient's sense of self-worth as they successfully take more responsibility for their own health concerns.Best wishes to your father. And, if you are interested, please contact me for more information in this regard. Sears, DCwww.docbones.comNW PDX On Aug 11, 2007, at 5:57 PM, hillcrestchiro wrote:Does anyone have any experience rehabing a knee replacement (or two)?My father had both knees replaced about 7 weeks ago and his rehab progress has been slow.After talking with him and doing a little research, it sounds and seems like he is right on track. I did speak with the PT about his rehab and he said my dad's knees were developing scar tissue (we had to work at finding a common definition about scarring and adhesions).Any input or experiences?Thanks, , DC, DABCO, LLC Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted August 13, 2007 Report Share Posted August 13, 2007 Hi , Knee degeneration oftenseems to be more about pelvic integrity than knee integrity. You are most likely adjusting your dad as often as he will allow your handson him but be sure to orrect the pelvic obliquity so then knees can operate normally. Sunny Sunny Kierstyn, RN DC Fibromyalgia Care Center of Oregon 2677 Willakenzie Road, 7C Eugene, Oregon, 97401 541- 344- 0509; Fx; 541- 344- 0955 From: hillcrestchiro@...Date: Sun, 12 Aug 2007 00:57:52 +0000Subject: Knee replacement Does anyone have any experience rehabing a knee replacement (or two)?My father had both knees replaced about 7 weeks ago and his rehab progress has been slow.After talking with him and doing a little research, it sounds and seems like he is right on track. I did speak with the PT about his rehab and he said my dad's knees were developing scar tissue (we had to work at finding a common definition about scarring and adhesions).Any input or experiences?Thanks, , DC, DABCO, LLC New home for Mom, no cleanup required. All starts here. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted August 13, 2007 Report Share Posted August 13, 2007 I would call the doctor or go to an appointment with your father and ask the doctor directly what to do and what not to do. I don’t think I would consider ‘manipulating’ the knee until I knew exactly the type of replacement that was done and what their directions are for rehab. s. fuchs dc From: [mailto: ] On Behalf Of hillcrestchiro Sent: Saturday, August 11, 2007 5:58 PM Subject: Knee replacement Does anyone have any experience rehabing a knee replacement (or two)? My father had both knees replaced about 7 weeks ago and his rehab progress has been slow. After talking with him and doing a little research, it sounds and seems like he is right on track. I did speak with the PT about his rehab and he said my dad's knees were developing scar tissue (we had to work at finding a common definition about scarring and adhesions). Any input or experiences? Thanks, , DC, DABCO, LLC Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted January 25, 2008 Report Share Posted January 25, 2008 Hi, I'm new here. I've joined because I'm to have a TKR in the near future I live alone and have to care for my four miniature pinscher dogs and a huge aquarium and my amazon parrot . It scares me trying to visualize how I'm going to do this when I first come home. Does anyone know how long I'm going to require assistance at home? My DIL has said she could stay with me for a little while. I have to get up several times a night to pee and that scares me too. I just don't know how well I'll be walking when I come home. I'd also appreciate hearing how long I'll have to stay in the hospital as I have to arrange with my next door neighbour to come over to look after my pets. Many thanks for any help or suggestions you have. Hugs, Sylvie, and the 4 C's (China, Copper, Chip and Casper)     , BC Canada Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted January 27, 2008 Report Share Posted January 27, 2008 Hi, I'm new here. I've joined because I'm to have a TKR in the near future I live alone and have to care for my four miniature pinscher dogs and a huge aquarium and my amazon parrot . It scares me trying to visualize how I'm going to do this when I first come home. Does anyone know how long I'm going to require assistance at home? My DIL has said she could stay with me for a little while. I have to get up several times a night to pee and that scares me too. I just don't know how well I'll be walking when I come home. I'd also appreciate hearing how long I'll have to stay in the hospital as I have to arrange with my next door neighbour to come over to look after my pets. Many thanks for any help or suggestions you have. Hugs, Sylvie, and the 4 C's (China, Copper, Chip and Casper)     , BC Canada 250-592-5091 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted January 27, 2008 Report Share Posted January 27, 2008 Hi Sylvie, I haven’t gotten as far as finding a doc that will do a knee replacement of hip resurface here. For the hip, I’ll have to go to Seattle, a 2 ½ hour drive. There may be a doc here that will take care of the knees for me. I’d almost rather see what the Seattle doc says before doing anything more to the knees. Anyway, as for taking care of your critters…I’d definitely have someone either stay at your home while you are in the hospital or come to your home while you’re there. If you can have them come after you get home as well, that should also be pre-arranged. You can probably count on 3-4 weeks of needing help with the pets. The dogs might be easier than the bird. Be sure to put the pet food on a countertop so you can easily reach it. Maybe someone can come in to clean your amazon’s cage? If I lived closer, I’d do it for ya. Joi Gizmo, Max, Jazzy, Artemis, Maui, the GC and Painted breeders http://www.toolady.com/www/breeders/joyfulfeathers/index.html Member of the Pyrrhura Breeders Association - Not just for breeders! www.pyrrhurabreedersassociation.com Member of the ASA From: Joint Replacement [mailto:Joint Replacement ] On Behalf Of Sylvie Hanna Sent: Friday, January 25, 2008 11:50 AM Joint Replacement Subject: Re: Re: Knee Replacement Hi, I'm new here. I've joined because I'm to have a TKR in the near future I live alone and have to care for my four miniature pinscher dogs and a huge aquarium and my amazon parrot . It scares me trying to visualize how I'm going to do this when I first come home. Does anyone know how long I'm going to require assistance at home? My DIL has said she could stay with me for a little while. I have to get up several times a night to pee and that scares me too. I just don't know how well I'll be walking when I come home. I'd also appreciate hearing how long I'll have to stay in the hospital as I have to arrange with my next door neighbour to come over to look after my pets. Many thanks for any help or suggestions you have. Hugs, Sylvie, and the 4 C's (China, Copper, Chip and Casper)     , BC Canada Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted January 28, 2008 Report Share Posted January 28, 2008  Sylvie, I don't know how old you are nor am I familiar with the BC health system so my answers may not be the same as your experience. But I was 43 last year when I had my TKR (right leg) and I happened to go back to my home town to do it so I stayed with my mother after my hospital time. Some people get to go to an in-patient therapy facility afterwards. I was in the hospital for four nights then went to her house until the two week post-op mark when I had my staples out. I used a walker that entire time and she made my meals. It would have been hard to make meals and it was nice not to have to go get water for myself. But I was up and around and ate meals at a dining table. At the two week mark, my husband drove to get me (500 mile trip one-way) and we went back to my house. I was vacuuming by the second day home. Slowly, but I was going it. I used a cane from that point on and went to outpatient therapy. I had to have him drive me until 7 weeks post-op, but that could be earlier if you are having the left leg done. I'm not sure how much work your dogs are but you will probably want help walking them for the first two weeks but then you will probably be able to get out afterwards. You will be very tired for the first month or so but able to do things in short bursts. Peeing isn't a real problem. Make sure to have the toilet riser (makes your toilet taller) purchased and installed for you as that is a Godsend. But I was able to do pretty much everything for myself after the first two weeks. -----Original Message-----From: Joint Replacement [mailto:Joint Replacement ]On Behalf Of Sylvie HannaSent: Sunday, January 27, 2008 10:42 PMJoint Replacement Subject: Re: Knee Replacement Hi, I'm new here. I've joined because I'm to have a TKR in the near futureI live alone and have to care for my four miniature pinscher dogs and ahuge aquarium and my amazon parrot . It scares me trying to visualizehow I'm going to do this when I first come home. Does anyone know how longI'm going to require assistance at home? My DIL has said she could staywith me for a little while. I have to get up several times a night to peeand that scares me too. I just don't know how well I'll be walking when Icome home. I'd also appreciate hearing how long I'll have to stay in thehospital as I have to arrange with my next door neighbour to come over tolook after my pets. Many thanks for any help or suggestions you have.Hugs, Sylvie, and the 4 C's(China, Copper, Chip and Casper)     , BC Canada 250-592-5091 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted January 28, 2008 Report Share Posted January 28, 2008 Hi , Thanks for the answer. I'm 68 and having my right knee done. I've been in such pain the last few years that I've got all the 'helps' in place. I bought a Rancher so I'm all on one level. Have riser's on both toilets and those bars to help get up and down too. I've got a walker, crutches, canes and an electric recliner that stands me up. I figure all this should help. I've also got a wheelchair and have made sure my house will be able to accommodate it. I'm planning on having the freezer stocked so meals will be easy. It's all the pets and outside bird feeders that concern me. My next door neighbour is going to look after this while I'm in the hospital but I can't expect him to do more after I come home again. The dogs have a safe back yard and a doggie door so they look after their own 'walks'. (VBG) You were very lucky to be able to go to your Mum's at first and then to have a hubby after that. Sounds like you did very well after your surgery....thanks so much for sharing all that.     , BC Canada From: DeRouen Date: 01/28/2008 5:17:24 AM Joint Replacement Subject: RE: Re: Knee Replacement Sylvie, I don't know how old you are nor am I familiar with the BC health system so my answers may not be the same as your experience. But I was 43 last year when I had my TKR (right leg) and I happened to go back to my home town to do it so I stayed with my mother after my hospital time. Some people get to go to an in-patient therapy facility afterwards. I was in the hospital for four nights then went to her house until the two week post-op mark when I had my staples out. I used a walker that entire time and she made my meals. It would have been hard to make meals and it was nice not to have to go get water for myself. But I was up and around and ate meals at a dining table. At the two week mark, my husband drove to get me (500 mile trip one-way) and we went back to my house. I was vacuuming by the second day home. Slowly, but I was going it. I used a cane from that point on and went to outpatient therapy. I had to have him drive me until 7 weeks post-op, but that could be earlier if you are having the left leg done. I'm not sure how much work your dogs are but you will probably want help walking them for the first two weeks but then you will probably be able to get out afterwards. You will be very tired for the first month or so but able to do things in short bursts. Peeing isn't a real problem. Make sure to have the toilet riser (makes your toilet taller) purchased and installed for you as that is a Godsend. But I was able to do pretty much everything for myself after the first two weeks. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted January 28, 2008 Report Share Posted January 28, 2008 Hi Joi, Looks like we live quite close with only that invisible border between us. (G) Thanks so much for your thoughts. Reading all the replies have sure helped. Makes me feel like I'm going to do just fine after all. I sure hope you are able to find a doctor you trust to take care of your surgeries too! , BC Canada From: JW Date: 01/27/2008 11:03:48 PM Joint Replacement Subject: RE: Re: Knee Replacement Hi Sylvie, I haven't gotten as far as finding a doc that will do a knee replacement of hip resurface here. For the hip, I'll have to go to Seattle, a 2 ½ hour drive. There may be a doc here that will take care of the knees for me. I'd almost rather see what the Seattle doc says before doing anything more to the knees. Anyway, as for taking care of your critters definitely have someone either stay at your home while you are in the hospital or come to your home while you're there. If you can have them come after you get home as well, that should also be pre-arranged. You can probably count on 3-4 weeks of needing help with the pets. The dogs might be easier than the bird. Be sure to put the pet food on a countertop so you can easily reach it. Maybe someone can come in to clean your amazon's cage? If I lived closer, I'd do it for ya. Joi Gizmo, Max, Jazzy, Artemis, Maui, the GC and Painted breeders http://www.toolady.com/www/breeders/joyfulfeathers/index.html Member of the Pyrrhura Breeders Association - Not just for breeders! www.pyrrhurabreedersassociation.com Member of the ASA Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted January 28, 2008 Report Share Posted January 28, 2008  Sylvie, Please don't expect to use the wheelchair after surgery. The best way to get better is to put weight on the leg and walk with a walker. You just need that for balance. It will hurt (but they will give you pain meds) but you need to almost immediately try to walk correctly to begin getting back the use of your knee properly. The main issue isn't that you won't be able to do things, it will just take you longer. You will be tired. Expect to take naps and rest. But you will also be able to do things. By day 7, I was able to be driven to a cafe and sit and work on my laptop for an hour because my work needed something from me (I couldn't do it at my mother's as she doesn't have wireless). I was tired afterwards and it hurt but I could do it. The week after my surgery is had snowed lots and lots and the walker was great for getting around on the ice and snow. So long as you can reach the bird feeders, I think you can easily, but slowly, walk yourself around with your walker and refill them. Think of some sort of hanging bag to put on your walker to hold supplies. I could get up and microwave myself things, it was just annoying to walk around with the walker. I'm not sure what your parrot will need but I imagine you can have some friend come in and help every few days until you feel good. Seriously though, at the two week point we drove 500 miles home (my husband drove) and I did need to sleep on the couch because it was more comfortable. I took pain meds. I was driven to PT each day. And I was lucky to have dinner brought to me that third week after surgery when we got back to Arkansas. But I could get up and help get my six-year-old (then 5) off to school and I could do laundry and I could sit at my computer and do my job (I work from home as an analyst.) I took lots of breaks and took naps. I was slow, but each day you get better. I think you should just assume you need to either be in the hospital, rehab, or have someone there for the first 14 days from surgery. Then just someone to check on you for about a week after that and then you should be fine except probably can't drive until week 7 or so. It hurts and it's hard to move your foot from brake to accelerator and back quickly enough until you recover. Hope this helps. RE: Re: Knee Replacement Sylvie, I don't know how old you are nor am I familiar with the BC health system so my answers may not be the same as your experience. But I was 43 last year when I had my TKR (right leg) and I happened to go back to my home town to do it so I stayed with my mother after my hospital time. Some people get to go to an in-patient therapy facility afterwards. I was in the hospital for four nights then went to her house until the two week post-op mark when I had my staples out. I used a walker that entire time and she made my meals. It would have been hard to make meals and it was nice not to have to go get water for myself. But I was up and around and ate meals at a dining table. At the two week mark, my husband drove to get me (500 mile trip one-way) and we went back to my house. I was vacuuming by the second day home. Slowly, but I was going it. I used a cane from that point on and went to outpatient therapy. I had to have him drive me until 7 weeks post-op, but that could be earlier if you are having the left leg done. I'm not sure how much work your dogs are but you will probably want help walking them for the first two weeks but then you will probably be able to get out afterwards. You will be very tired for the first month or so but able to do things in short bursts. Peeing isn't a real problem. Make sure to have the toilet riser (makes your toilet taller) purchased and installed for you as that is a Godsend. But I was able to do pretty much everything for myself after the first two weeks. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted January 28, 2008 Report Share Posted January 28, 2008 Hi , I thought if I was alone in the first week after coming home the wheelchair would be a very slow but safe way to do what had to be done. It s great if I'll be able to actually walk with the help of a walker though and I'm very glad to hear that. I've put a box on the seat of my walker with a tray on top of that and it's how I feed my little dogs. I push the walker with all four of their dishes on top into the front room where I can feed them on the sofa so I don't have to bend down to the floor for the dishes. I'll be able to use that tray for other things too when I come home from the hospital. Maybe I'll do okay to drive because I never use my right foot to brake anymore. It's impossible to move my leg now from one pedal to the other with the pain in my knee so I've got very used to using the left foot to brake while lifting the right one off the accelerator. Maybe I'll look into getting 'Meals on Wheels' for a couple of weeks as I can't get anyone to stay with me for more than a few days. I'm going to see what's available for home care too. Looks like this is all going to work out and I really do appreciate hearing what it was like for you. Thanks a lot! Sylvia H. , BC Canada Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted January 28, 2008 Report Share Posted January 28, 2008 Thanks Sylvie. There is a doc in Seattle that works on both hips and knees…I just need to make sure my insurance will cover the visit(s) and then make the appointment. We’re getting some bad weather for about the next week or so, so I’m going to wait until after that to call for an appointment. I really don’t want to drive over the mountain passes unless it’s absolutely necessary! I was thinking about your amazon…you could make up some healthy birdie bread with veggies in it and freeze it in a day’s portion. Take it out from the freezer the day before feeding. Keep whatever dry foods you feed in a tub right next to the cage on a table. For water, you can keep a clean dish next to the cage, take out the dirty one, fill it up with a bottle of water, then take the dirty one to wash it. Two water dishes would be even easier. If you feed pellets, you really don’t need to worry much about giving fresh foods since it will only be a short time until you can get around good enough to give the fresh foods again. Joi Gizmo, Max, Jazzy, Artemis, Maui, the GC and Painted breeders http://www.toolady.com/www/breeders/joyfulfeathers/index.html Member of the Pyrrhura Breeders Association - Not just for breeders! www.pyrrhurabreedersassociation.com Member of the ASA From: Joint Replacement [mailto:Joint Replacement ] On Behalf Of Sylvie Hanna Sent: Monday, January 28, 2008 3:59 PM To: Joint Replacement Subject: RE: Re: Knee Replacement Hi Joi, Looks like we live quite close with only that invisible border between us. (G) Thanks so much for your thoughts. Reading all the replies have sure helped. Makes me feel like I'm going to do just fine after all. I sure hope you are able to find a doctor you trust to take care of your surgeries too! , BC Canada From: JW Date: 01/27/2008 11:03:48 PM Joint Replacement Subject: RE: Re: Knee Replacement Hi Sylvie, I haven't gotten as far as finding a doc that will do a knee replacement of hip resurface here. For the hip, I'll have to go to Seattle, a 2 ½ hour drive. There may be a doc here that will take care of the knees for me. I'd almost rather see what the Seattle doc says before doing anything more to the knees. Anyway, as for taking care of your critters definitely have someone either stay at your home while you are in the hospital or come to your home while you're there. If you can have them come after you get home as well, that should also be pre-arranged. You can probably count on 3-4 weeks of needing help with the pets. The dogs might be easier than the bird. Be sure to put the pet food on a countertop so you can easily reach it. Maybe someone can come in to clean your amazon's cage? If I lived closer, I'd do it for ya. Joi Gizmo, Max, Jazzy, Artemis, Maui, the GC and Painted breeders http://www.toolady.com/www/breeders/joyfulfeathers/index.html Member of the Pyrrhura Breeders Association - Not just for breeders! www.pyrrhurabreedersassociation.com Member of the ASA Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted January 29, 2008 Report Share Posted January 29, 2008 > I thought if I was alone in the first week after coming home the > wheelchair would be a very slow but safe way to do what had to be done. I borrowed a wheelchair after my bilateral tkr's and although I didn't use it often, it was a Godsend. I used it the first few weeks to go to my sons basketball games because I was determined not to miss any. There was NO WAY I could of walked through the school halls and into the gym on my own with my walker. I also used it to go Christmas shopping. I tried those little buggy's at stores but found that after a few minutes my legs were killing me because of the position they had to be in. I really would limit it's use, however. As the previous poster stated, it's really necessary for you to use your legs as much as possible for them to get better. For me, I found that just increasing the amount of time I was up and about at home and at therapy was enough for me as I tired very easily those first few weeks and it was comforting to know my chair was just in the other room. Dee Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted January 30, 2008 Report Share Posted January 30, 2008 From: Sylvie Hanna <sylvie_is@...>Date: January 29, 2008 5:09:03 PM PST (CA)Joint Replacement Subject: Re: Re: Knee ReplacementHi Dee, thanks for your reply. I'll have to bring the wheelchair in from the garage and see if my wrists are strong enough to move it when I'm sitting in it. I have severe rheumatoid arthritis so can't rely on my hands/wrists too much. Because I'm alone I do need to figure out some way of moving around on my own when I come home from the hospital. I can remove the leg support for my left leg so would be able to kind of kick with my left foot to get the chair to move a bit too. Maybe a combination of both would work. (G) I'm so glad you were able to borrow a wheelchair to use as I'd imagine having both knees done would really require some form of assistance at first.Sylvie HannaOn 29-Jan-08, at 3:28 PM, Joe wrote:I thought if I was alone in the first week after coming home thewheelchair would be a very slow but safe way to do what had to bedone.I borrowed a wheelchair after my bilateral tkr's and although Ididn't use it often, it was a Godsend. I used it the first few weeksto go to my sons basketball games because I was determined not tomiss any. There was NO WAY I could of walked through the schoolhalls and into the gym on my own with my walker. I also used it togo Christmas shopping. I tried those little buggy's at stores butfound that after a few minutes my legs were killing me because of theposition they had to be in.I really would limit it's use, however. As the previous posterstated, it's really necessary for you to use your legs as much aspossible for them to get better. For me, I found that justincreasing the amount of time I was up and about at home and attherapy was enough for me as I tired very easily those first fewweeks and it was comforting to know my chair was just in the otherroom.Dee Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted January 31, 2008 Report Share Posted January 31, 2008 Hi Dee, thanks for your reply. I'll have to bring the wheelchair in from the garage and see if my wrists are strong enough to move it when I'm sitting in it. I have severe rheumatoid arthritis so can't rely on my hands/wrists too much. Because I'm alone I do need to figure out some way of moving around on my own when I come home from the hospital. I can remove the leg support for my left leg so would be able to kind of kick with my left foot to get the chair to move a bit too. Maybe a combination of both would work. (G) I'm so glad you were able to borrow a wheelchair to use as I'd imagine having both knees done would really require some form of assistance at first. Sylvie Hanna > > On 29-Jan-08, at 3:28 PM, Joe wrote: > >> >>> >> I thought if I was alone in the first week after coming home the >>> wheelchair would be a very slow but safe way to do what had to be >> done. >> >> I borrowed a wheelchair after my bilateral tkr's and although I >> didn't use it often, it was a Godsend. I used it the first few weeks >> to go to my sons basketball games because I was determined not to >> miss any. There was NO WAY I could of walked through the school >> halls and into the gym on my own with my walker. I also used it to >> go Christmas shopping. I tried those little buggy's at stores but >> found that after a few minutes my legs were killing me because of the >> position they had to be in. >> >> I really would limit it's use, however. As the previous poster >> stated, it's really necessary for you to use your legs as much as >> possible for them to get better. For me, I found that just >> increasing the amount of time I was up and about at home and at >> therapy was enough for me as I tired very easily those first few >> weeks and it was comforting to know my chair was just in the other >> room. >> >> Dee >> Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted April 1, 2008 Report Share Posted April 1, 2008 Hazel, Good to hear from you! I am glad you have done well with your knee replacement. Honestly, I have heard it is one painful recovery. The hospital I had my revision in, New England Baptist, is almost exclusively an ortho hospital so most of the patients were knee and hip. I heard some major moaning coming from the rooms around me...and I am pretty sure they were " knee people " ! You are right...they do keep us fairly still so other than those few times a day where they make us get up and move about maybe it is somewhat easier...or maybe its just more/better pain control. Good luck getting back to work. I know we will all be anxious to hear how you do and how your check up goes in July. If you tell me the date I will get it on the calendar so that we can remember to get an update. Take Care, Cam Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted April 1, 2008 Report Share Posted April 1, 2008 I'm glad you are doing well, Hazel! Peggy [ ] Knee replacement Hi All! It's been a while since I posted but have kept up with your posts. I did have the total left knee replacement surgery 6 weeks ago and am doing great. Plan to return to work on Monday. Everyone told me it would be a piece of cake after spine surgery but no way! Spine surgery is much more complicated but you don't have to exercise the back afterwards. I was taken to the PT department the morning after surgery and put thru the paces. WOW! That hurt! Have had home PT and PT at our local hospital but was discharged yesterday. Anyway, the spine seems to be going great. No pain and now I can take long walks every day. See Dr. Hey again in July for my 9 month check-up. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted August 24, 2008 Report Share Posted August 24, 2008 Well, everyone is different but usually there are some similar things you can expect. You will be in pain after the surgery but if you need this surgery then you are already in loads of pain (if you're not, you probably don't need this) and the post-surgery pain will be less and different from the bad knee pain you have now. You will probably be in the hospital for about four nights. Then, depending on age and disability you will either be sent to an inpatient rehab or home to be cared for by family. Most people are sent home. You will have the staples (unless you have stitches, I had staples) in for two weeks and usually can't shower or bathe during that time but can sponge-bathe. I was released at day four to go to my mother's house (I had the surgery out of state and my mother took care of me until my husband got there) and used a walker for the first two weeks. You hurt but it lessens each day. I did need her to help me with meals and toting and wagging at first but if her kitchen had been big enough, I could have gotten around it on my own by 8 days post-op. I dressed myself, got myself to the bathroom, etc. once I was there. In the hospital, the PT will work with you daily to get you up and around with the walker. Most people can get themselves to the bathroom by the next day after surgery (you are usually cathed the first day) and you will be given sufficient pain meds to be ok. You will be tired and will sleep lots even once you are home. I took lots of naps. My husband drove me the 500 miles home at 14 days post-op and that was hard on me but not impossible. Once I was home, the walker seemed more trouble than it was worth so I switched to a cane (oh, I'm 45 now but was 43 when I had the surgery and overweight so if you are young and thinner, it will all be easier on you) and three days after I was home I began daily outpatient PT. I work from home so I didn't have the experience of going into an office but by day 16 I could sit at my computer and work for an hour or so at a time. Sitting hurts a bit until week 4 or so. Mine was my right knee so I didn't drive until week 7 and it hurt until week 8. And by hurt, I just mean achy and uncomfortable. I will still on low-dose pain meds before PT and when I needed it. I iced my knee nightly. I was really pretty ok by week 6 for most anything. Less than two months post-op I flew to Orlando for a three-day work conference and was able to walk through two airports and a big resort hotel without much pain and with ease. Hope this helps. Oh and I have the Zimmer gender knee and I'm happy with it but other people have had luck with many other appliances. Usually you just go with what your doctor uses. Knee Replacement I am supposed to get a knee replaced probably after the first of the year and I'd like to know not only what to expect but also what kind of knee I should be asking for. How long is the recovery period, or how long before I can do for myself, and how much pain is involved? I can handle all kinds of pain as long is it doesn't hurt. I'm a big chicken about long recovery periods though. Austin, Texas Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted August 25, 2008 Report Share Posted August 25, 2008 Hi , I've had a THR in February and bi-lateral TKR in June. Given that you're likely in a lot of pain pre-surgery, you should know that relief will eventually come. For my knees, I spent a 3 nights in the hospital and then moved to Rehabilitation for a week. I'm age 44 and have had psoriatic arthritis since age 8. I had a nerve blocker with my knees and was given a morphine pump which allowed me to self-medicate pain drugs to a limit. The nerve block helped with the pain but it got pretty significant for me the first few days of rehab. For me, losing the nerve blocks and the pump and whatever strong stuff they were giving in one day was difficult. However, the Rehab kept changing the combination of drugs until I was more comfortable and able to actively participate in PT. While they get you out of bed in the hospital pretty fast, I needed help, as I really couldn't walk with a walker those first few days. I think most people can but my legs weren't cooperating. After a few days, I quickly began to make progress with PT.. doing stairs, walking laps, etc. I'm still in PT 3 days a week and working to gain my strength back. I'm comfortable walking without a cane at home but usually use one when I'm out. I'll need an ankle so that's partly why I need a cane too. I saw that someone mentioned the swelling. I was shocked at how much swelling there was with both my hip and my knee surgeries. I gained 10-15 lbs in water weight after both and was told by the Rehab that you can gain upwards of 30lbs. The swelling wasn't even localized by my surgical site. I felt my butt and thighsn were huge. The good news is that it came off during that week. At the Rehab, it's so expected, that they keep weighing you to see how it progresses. Let me know if you have any specific questions. Knee Replacement I am supposed to get a knee replaced probably after the first of the year and I'd like to know not only what to expect but also what kind of knee I should be asking for. How long is the recovery period, or how long before I can do for myself, and how much pain is involved? I can handle all kinds of pain as long is it doesn't hurt. I'm a big chicken about long recovery periods though. Austin, Texas Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted January 2, 2009 Report Share Posted January 2, 2009 Allie: Try this group. http://www.bonesmart.org/public_forum/index.php Cheers, Ross Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted January 3, 2009 Report Share Posted January 3, 2009 > > I had a right knee replacement about 8 weeks ago and am still > experiencing swelling and pain. I am still in physical therapy but > cannot bend my knee more than 95 percent. > > Does anyone know if this is common for this far out from surgery. > Hi, Allie. Yes, it is normal. Stay with it. Keep working on the flexion, too. Bill in Minneapolis went through it last year with a pair of knees on Oct 11 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted January 4, 2009 Report Share Posted January 4, 2009 Some swelling is common for months following your surgery. All of the pain does not go away until some time between 6 months and 12 months, depending on how bad the knee was. I have had both knees replaced. Right knee went fine but I had pain and some slight swelling until 9 months or so. Left knee had 2 different infections and am on 3rd replacement... Keep working really hard on your PT, use ice and things will improve with your motion, the swelling and the pain. Harold Knee replacement I had a right knee replacement about 8 weeks ago and am still experiencing swelling and pain. I am still in physical therapy but cannot bend my knee more than 95 percent. Does anyone know if this is common for this far out from surgery. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted January 4, 2009 Report Share Posted January 4, 2009 Keep it up, everyone heals at a different rate. How many times have you heard that? I gained 10 degrees of flexion just getting my staples out! It was great! I went from 125 to 135. I'm sending increased flexion thoughts you way! God Blesses, Lynette Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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