I had 30 years of no stability and loss of meniscus and we believe it’s the biggest reason why it’s taken so long for me to recover I had blood pulled out of my knee for three weeks, doctor didn’t understand why, long story short he told me to stop taking the aspirin and it seemed to help I had a lateral release and that is on top of everything that’s going on, so finally I’m down to 44 cm for diameter of my surgical knee Seems like I’m going in the right direction after 9 weeks like I’ve said before I’m an x athletic and use to healing quickly but this has been trying as hell I appreciate people such as Tony talking about this I’m was losing my mind but when I found Tony and Russ from (Russ I’d right) I feel like I’m on the correct path it was a lonely ride but I’m am very great full for your guys because of the COVID times I can’t get out much Great work you guys! 🍻🍻🍻
I had TKR at 71 yrs old. I had an operation in my teens when all cartilage was removed at that time (1967);. I was walking bone on bone and had knee spurs. My leg had also bowed out from all the years of walking with no cartilage. Shots no longer helped. This was the worst pain I ever experienced. I lived with an ice machine 24/7. Physical therapy sometimes brought me to tears but I kept pushing. I did not sleep much first full night of sleep happened at 6 weeks. I am actively exercising and still doing therapy. Medicare started counting allowed sessions at the NEW YEAR. I have learned harder exercises since the first 18 visits and feel much more confident in what I can do, I still have pain but very manageable. I hope I never have to go thru this again on my other bad knee. I would certainly never do two knee surgeries close together. A saw is used to cut your bone and a 3 lb. tamper to fit the stem of the artificial knee into the bone. Then a type of cement is used to keep things together. Our bodies have to adjust to all this stress and new material. I was very thankful to find this website and I have purchased the car risers to stretch my calves, which really helps out later in stretching the hamstrings to alleviate pain.
@@pamelashoemaker1614 Keep pushing- it gets better after 3 to 4 months I had 30 yrs of no meniscus and I dealt with that nasty pain and I’m fine now except of stiffness and uncomfortable pain at times but doesn’t get over 3
My knee replacement was extremely brutal. Yes brutal. The pain was at a 10 for 4 straight weeks. I was only on 5mg of pain meds and Tylenol. It was awful. I could barely walk, as my leg was extremely weak. So happy for those that had so much less pain. My doctor had to increase my pain meds because i couldn’t function. It was the hardest situation I have been though. I am now 7 weeks post-op and I am doing so much better.
You’ll get there. Minimal exercise just small walk on flat surfaces. Try to get to pushing off the heels when walking. Under do it. Don’t straighten the knee fully when walking - sl bend.
Why was it so intense? Did they have to cut a lot of bone? Did they cut your quad muscle instead of folding it over? I don’t understand why this surgery has to hurt so much. It’s not right! I’m glad you are better!
@@fancyfrancy2244I had my total right knee replacement 4 weeks ago. All I have is time so I read stuff like this and ice and elevate. I am in horrific pain. Yes they did cut the bone. I'm sure they did with this person too. Why are you so shocked? I am miserable 🥺
I had my surgery 10 days ago and found it was easier then ever expected. After the first couple days I asked for pain meds only every 12 hours. I continue to do my therapy exercises everyday. Glad I had this done, even at my age of 81.
I can relate with that. Take your pain meds and stay ahead of the pain. If it isn’t working have the doctor order a different one. I had to do that. Keep icing it. It does help. Hope you feel better soon.
I am a 68-year-old male. Had robotic TKR two weeks ago. Pain has been nothing more than an annoying ache. Took NORCO for a few days but stopped due to fuzzy head and constipation. Pro Tip: Be sure to have MiraLax available and use it at first sign of constipation. Day three - Switched to Two Alieve and Two Tylenol 12 hours apart. Had about the same pain reduction effect as NORCO without side-effects. Iced and elevated often. Did not push for ROM during swelling. On walker for two days. Then cane for a few days only. Extension = 5. Flexion = 101. Now, two weeks out. Taking two Alieve and two Tylenol before bed. Back to general housework and light hiking. Pain is still a 2 or 3 but I just ignore it. I could knock it back more with meds, but feel it is better for me this way. Occasionally, wake up around 3:00 a.m. with some pain, so I just wrap with ice gel pack and go back to sleep. Overall, this TKR experience has been kinda mild - MUCH less pain and difficulty than expected. Pro Tip 2: Don’t watch too many videos about the horrors of knee replacement. Just stay in the present and make adjustments to issues in real time. Get off NORCO soon. Don’t let PTs push you hard into ROM when you are still significantly swollen. Muscles will return naturally. Gel ice packs cool the knee for about 15 minutes which is what you need to prevent tissue damage. Avoid ice machines. Eat fresh, healthy food. Stay hydrated. Cut back sugars and alcohol. Sleep whenever you feel like it. Relax. Smile. Wishing you all the best.
OK, what is ROM, NORCO, and ice machines?? And, what does 5 mean on extension? For flexion, I guess we want 90 degrees or less? For extension, don't we want 180 degrees? And what in the world is "robotic" TKR?!?!
This is some good advice. Especially about the pt pushing you when you’re still swollen. My surgeon advised me not to go to pt until 2 weeks after my surgery. I am to do home pt until then. He said the pt can cause more damage that early on by pushing on leg for rom too soon.
I had both my knees done about 14 months apart. The turning point on the pain was about week 4 to 5. I'm so glad I had it done. Very close to the knees I was born with.
I've got mine scheduled 4 months apart. Is that crazy? My first one is tomorrow. And I scheduled this one back in Aug. He's booked that far out. I'm starting to wonder if he's crazy booking them this close together but would be nice having a few weeks off in June. Enjoy some sun!
Insomnia hit me hard. Never slept sound the first 7 weeks, even with melatonin and Benadryl. My PA prescribed a sleep aid for me to get my body back on track. The pain I had curbed my appetite, too. In six weeks I lost 20 lbs. I am happy with that part!
Hi Tony, Good Information on your video. I'd just like to pose a question. This is my 2nd knee replacement on the opposite knee. I am using my pain meds as prescribed and trying to stay ahead of my pain. For the most part, it's working well. My problem is that I am still having pain especially with exercise and like you said, it can really come on at night. I am now running low on meds with continued pain and basically am told, no more pain meds- thats it! I am not "seeking" drugs but since when did the "experts" stop believing the patient when they say that they are having genuine pain? A total knee replacement is a BFD! It seems too me that its better to medicate so that one can get through their exercise regimen, rather than not exercise to avoid the pain. I get why some patients don't push themselves. It's because they have a fear of being in pain and not getting appropriate refills.
I'm 80 years of age and had my Knee replacement surgery 7 days aog. My worst day, by far was the Second day (70) when I felt I had hit a bick wall! Now feelingaround 7. Time is the great healer, roll on 12 months
I’ve had a few severe operations one nearly losing arm ,many surgeries and skin grafts and I’m telling you for me having a knee replacement is by far the worse.I’m three months post op and its not good. I do all that’s expected of me , I’ve gone back to work part time but it’s really painful. This op I believe isn’t for everyone. I was in pain before but now I’ve got pain and disability . The physio says legs straight fantastic bend really good, just can’t walk for more then 30 mins then I’m leaning on walls or having to stop and not move . I’m not having my other leg done too barbaric, people who haven’t had one or even surgeons you don’t know what it’s like and everyone’s different so it doesn’t help telling us how to feel. I hope anyone who’s having one soon that it goes well and the pains bearable.
I just found this video and I am in my second week 2 days of a total knee replacement. I have trouble with pain meds( they make me nauseous and I get sick), so the doctor has put me on a medication called Gabapentin. This has been a life saver. I walk for 30 minutes,then row on the rowing machine for 15 minutes, then I do 4 sets of step up step down exercises. The pain is there but very tolerable. Then i ice the knee and I’m good. I love this video. Thank you sir for sharing. I hope I’m on the right track to recovery.
I'm on day 10 post-op. I feel strong and healthy; anxious to get back to my life. I think the reason being for my positive recovery is due to how well prepared my body, mind and soul was. I've always exercised. I eat extremely healthy, buying and preparing my own meals. I do not smoke, drink, or do any drugs. My attitude is quite positive and first and foremost, I am a devout practicing Catholic. Life is unbelievable!
@user-pp2uh8ji9x I am having TKR one week from today. I agree with you on preparing your body, mind and soul before any procedure. I too am a practicing Roman Catholic and a priest will anoint me before my surgery. Speedy recovery and may God bless you.🙏📿
I had a TKR Oct 18th. It was done outpatient and I was able to discharge within an hour of arriving in the recovery room. My first day was ok because I still had the benefit of having the anesthesia in my knee. I was advised to take short walks 1x an hour on my 2nd day. The pain was a 7-8 especially at night so pretty intense. Day 3 was my first PT session which was only an assessment but the therapist was impressed that I was able to get a 90° bend 3 days after surgery. I was given some exercises to do and went to my post-op appointment right after where I got some x-rays and doctor was happy with my progress. Since then, I have had 3 more PT sessions and I am at 114° bend as of my 3rd visit. I was able to get full rotation on the bike sessions 2 (for 4 minutes and 6 minutes on the 3th visit) Tuesday will be my 4th session so I am hoping to see continued progress. I can't say that I have had "pain" since day 4 and I have been off the prescription pain killers (consistently) since day 2 post op, using Tylenol day 3-8 for break through pain. I will take my prescription meds an hour before my PT sessions but have not needed any other pain meds otherwise. I hope this helps someone.
UPDATE: Due to some overly aggressive PT, I developed tendinitis which took me from a high of 130° back to 114°. I scaled-down the PT and added hot Epsom Salt soaks with some stretching immediately after and now I'm back to 130°. There's still some swelling, but I am confident that I can get a few more degrees in the next 6 months.
I had both done at the same time. I have a high pain tolerance. My pain was the worst pain I've ever had. Even worse than childbirth. Scale of 1-10. It was 20 for the first week.
I am 3 weeks post BLTKR and think you nailed the pain time windows here. Up until 2 weeks post-op my pain levels were between 5-10 with one emergency trip to the ER due to a bout of blinding pain. But then around 2 week mark the intense surgical pain just dropped off over the course of a few days. Today is exactly three weeks post-op and it is the first time since surgery that I can read a book, it’s crazy to think my pain was so great that I was unable to read a book which is my favourite thing to do.
@@bradje12 I just seen this message. I started PT right away and continued until 7-months post op. Since my BTKR I have had the right knee revised twice which has been much less painful than the original BTKR, but similar time frames, first two weeks are hell, weeks 2-4 are better, and big pain improvements follow with every 2-3 week progression.
Tony, you nailed this. I had a right knee replacement 1/9/20 and the nights were the most difficult for me. My wife, the dogs and I hiked 2.5 hours yesterday and my pain level was zero. To all the people out there that think this is never going to get better and they will never get their life back I am living proof that you can. My knee no longer swells after hard activity and to be honest I very rarely think it about it anymore. I worked hard in therapy, used my ice machine daily and elevated 4 or 5 times per day. Most of my pain started to lessen after 10-12 weeks and I was pain free after 18-20 weeks. My max pain range would be 7-8. I worked hard at therapy and I did my exercises at home. Once done with therapy I continued to work hard and push myself and my knee started responding positively. If you do not do YOUR PART you will not see optimum results. Before my surgery my knee was on my mind constantly because of the pain and swelling. Once in a while I will have a little stiffness but overall it feels pretty darn close to my real knee before my football injury in high school many years ago. I have more flexibility than I have had in over 30 years. This surgery has given me my life back and we can enjoy the outdoors like we did many years ago. Nothing but best wishes for anyone going through this journey and those getting ready to. I wish I would have had it done years ago.
@@hertzranks2229 I could run but I do not because of the wear and tear on the joint. I can ride a bike like it was my real knee. No swelling or pain. My wife and I hike for hours without any discomfort.
Hi Mike, was very helpful your comment thank you; I’m a little worried about pain medication, what works better for you? I have got my surgery March 5, I would like to find something good for my pain. Thanks!!🙌🏼
@@mariareza2206 Hello. I took Tramadol and Tylenol. The pain was manageable most of the time. Make sure to keep it iced and elevated and it will make a huge difference. Please buy some stool softeners and take them on a regular basis. The pain meds can cause issues.
Thanks for the info. I'm getting mine in 2 weeks. I'm petrified. I'm only 46 but the pain and swelling in my knee is nearly unbearable so a tkr is needed. Is riding a bike going to make it wear out quicker? I have pre assessment on Thursday so I'll ask them as well. Wish I wasn't so nervous.
Had my left TKR done on 4/7/23,i got there abou,it10:40 AM i was sorta nervous Had a great Dr.he had already done 3 TKR's i was his fourth, every one is telling you stuff saying hes a great Dr. and then you just wake up and its over,i Just saw the Dr. 1time after the surgery, i asked him how di it go? he said 1 word PERFECT. Then he was on to something else.so now the fun part begins, i herd the 3rd & 4th day are the worst, for pain every is different, the therpist gave me 3 excrises to do for the first few days just to do what i can and dont worry about getting it perfect and take my MEDs had my 1st crap 1 hr ago 7 :30 AM had to drink 2 cap fulls in 10 oz of water, of the poop power not to bad= felt Good. TOO , it is what it is though im 63 next guy comes on monday, Yippie HI Yo KI YEA RB
I’ll tell you Tony…. It was pain beyond what I was able to imagine… I’ve had 5 babies… and you are right… that first 2 weeks was pretty significant pain… caused me to burst out crying several times because I didn’t feel I could cope…without meds….Im not sure what I would have done. After the first 2 weeks (week 2 was slightly better than week 1, but still excruciating) things got a wee bit better each day…. Thank goodness!!! For me… it’s been a slow heal… bend is slow also…. Am at 3 months and only bending at 90… but still improving slowly. Am seeing Dr tomorrow and may need MUA…. Hoping not 💗🙏Thank you for all you share on your channel 😊🙏💕
I have had total knee replacement. I can say unequivocally that total knee replacement is absolutely the most painful surgery you can be subjected to. In addition you must be subject to massive doses of oxy drugs. Then you must suffer through narcotic withdrawal.
I had both knees replaced on November 3rd. The worst pain that l have ever felt in my life. Days and nights were hell. It took about five days for me to stand with a walker. I was in rehab for two weeks, terrible pain. Now after six months l am able to do things that l was not able to do in years. No pain, totally worth the suffering.
I gather that Bill doesn’t know how to check for replies to his comments, which is a shame because I wanted to validate his pain and recovery experience - and thank him for sharing it. 🙁 Everyone’s experience will be different, and while the guidelines and benchmarks are certainly solid goals to shoot for, each has to go at their own pace.
I am terrified thinking that next week I'm going for knee replacement, but watching these videos listening to testimony of different people I gain strength and courage. I know it is painful but better to do it once and be pain free. I'll come share my story when I'm done. Big thank to all of those who shared their experiences. ❤️
Please give us an idea as to how your surgery went, Sizwe. I am having a TKR next week and am pretty apprehensive but am looking forward to having a knee that doesn't hurt all the time.
I went in at 8AM was sitting in a restaurant at 3:30! Recovery was a bit longer 10 weeks! Rent the chair it really helps,and do yourPT. 6-8 months for full mobility! I was 75 at the time!
Today is 2 wks. Pain is 10 because I tried stopping pain meds 3 days ago. Going to take pain med right now. I also feel I’ll, week and can’t concentrate on anything.
My surgery was 6 months ago. I was so afraid of getting constipated that I never took narcotics. I utilized ice, elevating, And stuck to my P. T. Exercises like my life depended on it. If I had any discomfort in the night, I threw off the blankets, did 30 front leg lifts, 30 side leg lifts, pain resolved, went back to sleep. During the day, I discovered that "motion is lotion" was actually true. Resisting the urge to curl up with a blanky and cry, movement (in the right way) was the best therapy of all. I'm a 65 yr. old female, having labored and birthed enough times to know that listening to and working with pain is always better than trying to get out of it by any means. And often that means getting all the education on the subject you can find. Not as abundant as you would think. That was the most painful part of all, alone, afraid, confused ,.... Then I found Tony's channel and it made all the difference. Frankly, I'm confused as to why I have a surgeon and 3 physical therapists, and yet I found the best help on some you tube channel. I should probably tell my surgeon that maybe his best follow up treatment plan could be to simply refer and direct his post op folks to Tony's channel. Then this whole TKR reality wouldn't be such a nightmare!!!
Well said! The only analogy that I’m thinking is that it is like parachuting into a desert with a broken wing and expecting to develop survivalist skills on the ground. There should be more emphasis on finding the right pt person before surgery who has a particular interest in knee rehab and sensitivity to the individual’s aptitude and ability and willingness to progress. I let myself be casual and picked the spot closest to my home. Can you imagine doing that with your surgeon? Closest thing in my life to an abusive relationship both physically with 9 out of 10 pain and shaming...you are not giving it all up to me by trying hard enough. That’s changed but it was so counterproductive in first month.
My experience was similar to several posters. I did the exercises as prescribed and as frequently as tolerated. Kept moving every hour or two-sitting for long hours on couch is not helpful! Stay on top of the pain with meds as needed. I am ~4 months on L TKR and ~6months on R TKR and I am out boating in the San Juan Islands in WA state...some discomfort & stiffness, especially in the morning...but very manageable! My mobility is amazingly better! At home, working out at gym, riding bike, walking, strength training. Sure beats the chronic, worsening pain I have experienced for several years prior to TKRs. I had a great PT and he told me about Tony’s TKR group & RUclips channel-incredibly helpful! I watched all the videos just about daily.
@@enoughtimetug I have scheduled my knee replacements for 2 weeks apart, do you think that is too soon? I am in very good physical shape . And have the time and support for it at this time .
@@megchambers8799 If your surgeon approves, go for it!! People have them done at the same time frequently now. Have a pain management plan and the best PT lined up. You should be fine. The newer “minimally invasive” techniques are improving the recovery rapidly.
I'm early on in my journey (6 days post-op). I take my Oxycodone prior to my PT session and use my ice machine for an hour after PT (My first official PT session isn't for 2 days but I'm doing simple exercises I found online- ankle pumps, heel slides to increase ROM, leg straightening, and prop the ankle up and allow my knee to hang down (to me the worst). My max pain generally is a 3, maybe a 4. Sleeping is good (I take an OXY just before bedtime). Getting up at night for the bathroom is the hardest, those first dozen steps or so. After that, pretty good. I walk down the hall to limber the leg up. I can walk short distances (to the bathroom and kitchen from the living room) without an aid. It will be interesting to see how I am after M\onday's formal PT. Best thing so far is how quickly I was able to walk "normally" (normal gait and light pressure on the walker handles standing upright). Worst thing is how these opiods mess with my system (aka #2) but I take a Dulcolax each day and that helps a lot.
Ditto on the pain scale. It should be universal. I had a TKR 12 weeks ago having lived with arthritic knee pain 24/7 for 15 years. Immediately, post surgery, that pain was completely gone. I had a number of new pains however, as a result of the surgery. I did the prescribed exercises, no more, no less (Important). And, I did notice a daily improvement each day, for the first 6 weeks. Staples were remover after 10 days. 14 days later, the dressing was removed and stitches were dissolved. The surface wound was healed, but inner healing takes longer. For the first 6 weeks, I noticed a daily improvement, I noticed a weekly improvement thereafter. After 4 weeks my knee was better than it had been for a decade and a half. Three months on, the knee is slightly warm to the touch, so, still healing inwardly. But I can now walk! My wife said to a friend, "It's like dating a new man. The other night, he asked me if I wanted to go for a walk. I can't remember when he said that to me last"! Still applying the ice pack to reduce the swelling. I can see how it takes 12 months for a full recovery, As for pain, it quickly reduces to discomfort and id nothing like the persistent pain I lived with for 15 years. Shane Guerin was my surgeon and I would recommend. OI hope this helps.
I remember an Orthopedic surgeon stated that the first 3 months your knee owns you. I would say that is absolutely true. I am an experienced TKR patient now into my 4th week of recovery from second TKR. I tell everybody that to just expect me bitchin' about everything TKR for 3 months then I will start being a reasonable person again. LOL
I to am an experienced TKA (2019) , at 6 weeks my fluctuation was at 130 no need for pain meds , so I can not agree your knee owns you for 3 months/ 12 weeks although my surgeon says I’m in the top 1% for recovery . Now I’m days away from a 2nd TKA , I do expect the same or better results.
Just had dbl replacement 7 weeks ago.when I first woke up no one had to tell me what I had done,the first 2 nights were rough but not unbearable and every day is a little bit better...I dont regret it a bit
I’m a 60 year old teacher. I received my first knee replacement last November (2020)and currently I am getting ready for my second knee replacement. I don’t like pain, but overall the pain was tolerable. My husband was awesome, but I had a good friend stay with me for the first four days. She helped me with my exercises and my medication. My suggestion is to do your exercises religiously because it’s going to help you later on. Also, take your medication around the clock. This will help with your exercises! You will weed off your meds later on. Don’t worry about becoming addicted! If you skip on your medication now, you will increase your pain; therefor you won’t want to do your exercises! Exercising is extremely important:-)
Thank you each and everyone of you everything you said help me. my knee replacement surgery is next Tuesday, tomorrow is Friday I’ll do what you did. I’ll put my days and Waze on here for the next person.
I had TKR 5wks ago. Almost no pain first 3wks but surgeon did not want PT for 2wks. I had excessive thigh/knee swelling so when I started PT they only did stim pads. Surgeon was unhappy as knee not bending well so I asked another therapist to help attain goals, then the torture started. Sharp pain inside tibial area, tendonitis of IT band on left side. Max bend after 5wks finally 90 degrees today using TERT therapy. I thought I was pain tolerant- I ride horses and thighs are tight. This has been excruciating. I started going to gym on alternate days to use recumbent bike and Elliptical but now think I may not giving time to recover. Also use red light therapy. Ended up with a DVT after 3wks. Thank you for your videos and one on allowing recovery time. I accidentally clicked thumbs down on that video but you have helped me as well as hearing others having tough time too. Surgeon was threatening to reansthetize me to bend knee after 3wks. I refused! Now Im glad I trusted myself to allow my body time to heal! Thank you, Tony!
Left knee was replaced January 28th, right knee was replaced May 14. I have a very low tolerance to pain and thought it was excruciating with the 1st knee. I never gave up, did all therapy and worked out 3x a day. 3 1/2 months later I could really see improvement just in time for 2nd knee. Now 4 months in on 2nd knee and am walking at a good pace every day. Left knee has loosened up a lot. I feel by January 2021 should be back to normal. NEVER GIVE UP. IT TAKES TIME AND A WANT TO!
Thanks. I'm going on 10 weeks with my left and will do right in about 5 weeks. So about 3 months apart. I didn't know that I would still be stiff at 10 weeks. Now the doc and PTs are saying it could take a year to come to some normalcy. I have been disappointed in this. But like you, doing my exercises and still doing PT. Getting a little better every day. But not looking forward to going through with it again on the other knee!
@@gosman949 i agree. I had no idea how time-consuming a), the physio would be and b), the pain. It's not that i was seeing the physio more than x2 a week but i was doing all the exercises every 15 mins in order to unstiffen/loosen up. At 10 weeks, i really stuffen up still. Just did a long car journey for 1st time today and had to stop to loosen up twice! I am so grateful tho. No looking back to the swelling from dodgy ligaments, old patella damage x2 and the severest arthritis at aged 55. My knee is going to be great.
The pain scale is beyond my worst imagination. Every day I try to bend my knee towards 90 degrees it inflicts an extreme level of pain. Update: It is now 8 weeks since my surgery, two weeks since an MUA. I am able to bend the knee to 120 degrees with help from a pull strap or from PT person. The dull thud pain behind the kneecap has been joined by an electric shock pain that runs down the side of the leg between two points where the surgeon attached something or cut away something. That pain feels like a cattle prod was attached, it's impossible to sleep thru it and OXY doesn't help. What does seem to help is the combo of Pure Magnesium Oil and ICY HOT with Lidocaine. Think long and hard about alternatives because my experience with doctors and PT people is they are often cheerleaders urging you to proceed and "deal with the pain". They don't get paid unless you sign up for this. Fortunately, I don't have to go to a job every day because that's impossible.
I had TKR 2 weeks ago and I can say everything you say is right on. The first three days were pretty terrible, even though on the pain scale I would have to rate it at about a 7. Now, I am down to 1.5 doses of hydrocodone a day, and the pain is probably goes from 2-6 throughout the day. My experience of night time pain is the opposite of what you describe. It feels best at night. Perhaps because I have one of those ice machines, and I have an adjustable bed so I can elevate my leg above my heart. Morning is the worst. The most important take away is that the pain is not constant. It will vary throughout the day, so at worst you may have short bursts of extreme pain.
Rose, please let me know what brand ice machine you bought and from where. Amazon lists so many but I want something that really works because this is too important to buy a dud.
I just had my second knee replacement yesterday. I am in excruciating pain right now. So bad that I’m shaking. I am fighting to keep my blood pressure up. Every time I stand up it drops. With the first one the bottom number was 36. Today with the second knee the bottom number is 46. They can’t do too many pain meds because of the blood pressure. This is horrible. I’m glad there are only two knees.
Had total left knee replacement on March 22, 2023. Don't mean to be redundant but be sure to do your home exercises regularly and also attend physical therapy and work as directed. If you can do home exercises like quad strengthening before surgery it would be a big help in healing. The first two weeks were painful but lessening of pain proceeded regularly after that. I needed help with toileting for the first few weeks but managed once I was able to better flex my knee. Make sure you do regular knee extension work. It will really pay off whenever you begin walking without assistance equipment. Just keep in mind, you will feel much better by 3 -4 months.
I am at day 17. The pain was the worst for the first week or so. My base was about a 4, going up to a 5 or 6 when pain meds were due. I am now taking pain meds every 6 hours and keeping the pain level at a 3 or 4 when moving around. I think your assessment is correct. The first two weeks are the worst. After that, it is do-able with incremental improvement every day. I never regretted having the procedure done. I needed it! Only time will tell if it is worth it, needing 6 months to a year to properly judge. Rehab is slow and can be frustrating. Managing my own expectations are the hardest. I ask myself every day "Am I doing/feeling better today than I felt yesterday?" So far the answer has been yes. Keep up the good work with the videos! I appreciate the support for my journey!
I am also now on day 17, just starting to try to put some full weight on in still walk with one crutch...hope this gets better, or I too will be questioning myself as to why I did it.
Explaining pain levels in this way has really helped me out. At least now I know I am progressing as I should. I am 4 weeks today and am experiencing most of the things you have mentioned, super stiff in the mornings but gets better as I start my exercise routine.
At 51 y/o I had my TKR done on 5/16/22 and to date I’ve completed my PT 3 weeks ago. And I’m feeling extremely elated with my progress. I’m almost back to 100%. Now for me day 3 was my worst by far on the pain scale. But it gradually wavered over the course of 3 weeks. I would suggest doing the pre surgery PT. As I did 6 weeks worth prior to my surgery date which helped tremendously. And did 17 weeks afterwards. Be sure to search out the best orthopedic surgeon you have available to you in your area. I wish that my wife pushed me to get it done sooner as my quality of life is back to what it used to be. I’m now walking 5 miles twice a week and while it’s sore afterwards I feel so much stronger now than in prior years. So if you’re thinking of getting a TKR don’t wait just do it you’ll be happy you did trust me. Don’t wait 7 years like me to get it done. Good luck to anyone thinking of having it done. You’ll do just fine.
I had my TKR January 2020 and for the first two weeks I didn't. Are if I woke up or not. I got better pain meds at week 2 when the staples came out. We won't talk about how the pain in rehab was...
I’ve had 2 knee replacements, one in 2015 and the other in 2017 and even though I had quite a lot of pain, the worse part was having the staples removed. I’m now mainly pain free even though I’ve started having the odd twinges now. But I can now walk for miles. Glad I had it done. I was in my 50’s when I had them done.
Bilateral knee replacement. 72 years old at the time. Now 82 and doing great. Had rotator cuff surgery 25 years ago. Also doing great. About rehab. I would rather have my knees done again than my shoulder.
I had both knees done at the same time on 8/26/22. You nailed the pain scale. I would say the toughest period is the first 8-10 days, gradually getting better from there. I had many moments where pain jumped to an 8, maybe even 9 at times. This Friday will be 3 weeks from surgery date and my pain levels have dropped dramatically. I’m so happy I had this done. The reason I did both was it only made sense for me to go through the pain, the therapy, the time, etc only once. It was tougher than I thought it would be but I feel better already and see light at the end of the tunnel. The following are a couple things I’d like to mention. In the surgery prep they place tourniquets on your upper thighs to restrict blood flow during surgery. This causes pretty severe bruising with a lot of pain for about 80-85% of the people getting it done. The other issue I had was the sciatica pain caused from the tourniquets being used. This flared up my sciatica nerve and caused additional pain throughout the first couple weeks. I told my surgeon about it and he immediately put me on prednisone and I felt some relief pretty quick. This was a blessing. I’m mentioning this stuff to help you discuss with your surgeon prior to surgery and hopefully this will help alleviate some possible discomfort. Once I had the Sciatica pain under control it was so much better to deal with the pain from the surgery. The Tourniquet pain and sciatica pain is just as hard to deal with as the surgery itself. The key to remember here is no two surgeries are identical and everybody’s experience will be different. Best of luck to everyone.
I just had my right knee replaced and I was in intense pain for two days I was in the hospital. My pain was back pain sciatica pain that here at the VA hospital they seemed I’ll equipped to handle that pain. Once I got out of the hospital and home I started getting relief with a good chair to sit in and a bed that allowed sleep. I started massaging that bulging disk and pain level was all from my knee then. I’m still just beginning this journey but I’m already glad I did it because I can tell I have a knee that is useful again. Now to get over the weakness and pain and it’ll be a journey worth taking.
I'm so glad you mentioned this because I have problems with my Sciatica nerve and was worried this may be a problem for me. This is good to know. Thank you!
I am week three post knee surgery and had Mako robotic. I had some pain daily early on but finishing Nerve pain med and narcotic so just on Tylenol and Cekebrex. Could not tolerate Mavik. I have pain in lower leg fue to bruising and swelling decreasing. Using compressed stockings and machine at night but the compression machine is painful but trying to to use stockings and pain meds for it. Stay tuned.
Love it when people who have never experienced the pain they are trying to explain to those who are the ones who have to actually deal with the PAIN and all the side effects of the pain medication.
I’m considering the replacement surgery this year, but scared to death of being rendered helpless for a few months and having to deal with pain 24 seven. Sometimes I think I should just suck it up and deal with that knee pain I have.
@@jondstewart I have waited too many years and watched my lifestyle dwindle to sitting. I'm tired of that so, surgery. I want to ride a bike again. Don't suffer because in just gets worse in time . Good luck!
@@357CLOUDY thanks for the heads up! I didn’t have any real knee pain until my 40’s, but by 50, it was annoying! I work as a chef and been an avid skier for the past 10-12 years. Now 53 and can’t stand for long without it hurting. If I drink tons of water and eat a lot of leafy greens, it’s reduced, but I still limp.
@@jondstewart get it done, there's no other solution, what's worse to go through, temporary post surgical pain and rehabilitation to being pain free or not having the surgery and having pain(it gets worse over time) for the rest of your life and needing some sort of aid to get around, wheelchair, walker, cane, crutches, Mobil scooter,,,,, get the surgery brother
I had a total knee replacement 1 month and 2wks ago. I can honestly say this was the worst pain I've ever had. I'm thankful that I'm doing so much better now I'm still having mild pain but not nearly as I was I'm walking and driving I still can't bend it like I use to my physical therapist say that's normal and I want really be able to bend it like I did before. The pain does get better any they say about 6months from now I will be in a much better stage in my recovery 😊
Tony, thank you. I had the Mako total knee replacement on 05/31/23. At 76 years old with osteoarthritis, my pain tolerance was extremely low. The oxycodone and oxycodone ER didn't' seem to touch the pain for at least 3 weeks, and at almost 6 weeks post-surgery, I've still not had more than 2 hours of continuous sleep during the night. PT is very difficult. My body's response to the drugs made it more difficult to concentrate. Yet I'm now seeing the light at the end of the tunnel. The muscles, tendons, ligament, or whatever that was cut to get into the knee still scream a bit, and amazingly, the bone itself, where the pieces went in, also hurt, but it's gradually subsiding. I write this for the sake of those who literally have a very low pain tolerance. Keep doing whatever you can, and keep bugging your surgeon, PA, PT, nurse navigator, or whoever, because they're your greatest professional help. Mine were definitely shocked at a my low pain tolerance, but are working with me. Will I have the other knee done? Right now I'd say a definite no, but looking at the videos and reading these other reactions tells me that perhaps, down the line, I might.
Thanks for a great video. Was having difficulty with the pain scale and you nailed it. My surgery was six weeks ago on 4/13/21 and the first week was tough. Had surgery on a Tuesday, home on Wednesday and up the steps to our bedroom on Friday after PT. Hit the eight scale several times but going into the second week I was at a four level and had a great PT. I liked your pain scale mentioning that it was hard to breathe being an eight. At week five I started walking and am walking about 2 miles a day with no pain. The morning after I am a little stiff with minimum pain but have reached the level of walking without thinking about it. If needed I would have the other knee done without thought and a lot sooner.
I had my left knee done in March 2021 and my right knee done in June 2021. My experience…This is a very painful healing journey. I had intense pain for the first 5 weeks and the opioids didn’t give me much relief. Nights have been very difficult. Everyday I told myself tomorrow will be better but to be honest the first 5 weeks it wasn’t. I started feeling some relief at week 6 but nights did not improve until 8 weeks. I am on week 9 of my second surgery and 5 months from my first and both knees still hurt and are stiff every morning. I have faithfully done my exercises 2 times a day and actually over did my activity more than once and had to take a week off. I have found more is not better and because I have a high pain tolerance I have pushed myself to hard at times. It is a balancing art to push just the right amount to bring healing and not harm. I love my New knees and I would do it again but be warned it hurts for a long time.
Thank you for sharing this. I am 13 days post op for LTKR. My pain is intense, at least a 6. I take Hydrocodone and Aleve. The meds give me some relief but when they wear off the pain returns as bad as ever. I do my exercises as I should. Guess I expect too much too soon. I thought the pain would lessen by now but after reading your post I can see I am being unrealistic. Again, it is helpful to hear the experience others have had. Thanks again.
Thanks, Most applicable comments for me yet. Just passed week three and expected a gradual incline towards getting progressively pain free, my journey has been more of an up down, good/bad, day/ night. Having encouraging patient coaches is key. Don’t over do it, sometimes standing for longer periods is over doing it! Started icing less, PT said SOME inflammation and warmth this late is essential for healing.
Your assessment of a TKR is 100% correct! I had my left in 8/2014 and my right in 8/2015. I can’t even imagine what you went through having them so close together…🤕 isn’t something that I could have done…looking back. There is NO WAY! I had open heart surgery back in ‘95 - from a PFO ostium secundum and I thought that was the worst surgery that I would ever go through. Well, the LTKR was pretty close to to my heart surgery. The pain at times was unbearable. To make matters worse, I was getting ready to go out with mom and I moved the wrong way to put on my sock. The pain I felt was excruciating…I had never felt anything that bad before…it was shooting up my whole left quad. It has never been pain free…but the right knee a year later, it was a piece of cake! It’s too bad that I had the major stroke in ‘94 (misdiagnosed heart defect- heart surgery post stroke, seizures x12 years = 2 brain surgeries) so I get tired easily and have to rest my noggin. All things considered, I would do it again, just like you would. However, if things in my life had been different, I wish I could prepare myself for the surgeries differently. I just forget and the next thing I know, they are here. C’est la vie.
I had my knee replacement December 14 2020 I’m now into my 6 week post op and still experiencing pain. I have seen my Surgeon a week ago, and she told me my ex ray looks good and that everything seems to be going well. So why still pain. I’m still sleeping in my recliner chair. (The most comfortable:)) Love your videos
Thanks Rhonda! Lots of patients continue to experience pain. The challenge with pain is there are so many contributing factors. How is your range of motion and swelling? Are you able to walk much? 6 weeks is usually a turning point toward improvement.
@@totaltherapysolutions yes I can walk without Cane or walker. That’s exactly what my surgeon said... When you get to 6 weeks you will take a turn for the better:)
Thank you for a frank appraisal of what to expect - I had a TKR 6 years ago and have recently had a hip replacement on the same side (right) the hip replacement was much easier. I really like how you say you want to hear from people who have had the operation because you have never had one. There are too many people on RUclips who give advice very easily who have absolutely no idea of the pain after a TKR. Thank you.
It’s extremely painful. Don’t let anyone kid you. I had some complications and was in hospital 10 days but 1-10 it hurts and sucks. But a year later it’s worth it. How did I manage the pain? IV morphine and OxyContin. That’s how. It was extremely painful and I have had 11 arthroscopic surgeries so I am not unfamiliar with knee pain.
What you have said is exactly 💯 I have had both knees done & I'm in week 2. What I experienced now is no where near what agonizing pain I was going thru before the surgery. I'm glad I done the surgery.
After my first TKA, the first 3 days were no fun. After 3 days it got really better and I could walk around and function. (with a walker) . 2 weeks our of surgery, I threw the walker away and had a cane for support if I needed it. Now then, 10 weeks out of my first one. My second one will happen in 4 days, not a fan of going through this again, but my experience will help.
Had my left knee replaced in June 2021. Pain was not as bad as I feared , maybe a 7 at worst but I was able to keep on top of it with narcotics in the first 3 weeks and lots of ice packs. Previously, narcotics have given me terrible constipation but the lower dosage wasn’t a problem. 12 weeks later I’m walking 3 miles a day and playing golf. Glad I had it done.
You give me hope the the pain during and after therapy is killing me also the swelling has made it very hard to move it around I’m icing,elevating and my exercises even through tears I’m two weeks in thanks for sharing
I had mine done almost six years ago. worst thing I ever did. For pain comparrison. I had my face smashed in on a construction job. Knee replacement worse. I got crushed with 5000lbs of steel on a different construction job, knee is worse. Used to race motorcycles got run over in the first turn by twenty motorcycles, Knee worse. It was almost eight weeks before I could sleep because of the pain. My doctor gave me five pain pills then told me to take Tylenol. Today still hurts.
I cried all day everyday from extreme depression after my surgery because of the anesthesia. I cried fir 40 days straight. The pain was horrible snd lack of sleep very difficult to deal with. I managed my physical therapy okay but dreaded nights. Now seven months in I am doing pretty well .
I hear you I cried for the first 4 weeks and every day because of a bleeding ulcer most pain meds I couldn’t take and Oxy made me hallucinate. Tylenol with Codeine was all I could take and it helped very little. I do PT 3 times a week if it wasn’t for the physical therapists I don’t know how I would have made it. I just turned 75. Will I have the other knee ? When hell freezes over!!!
bless your heart honey . i am in that same boat. my operation on my left knee is the worst pain i have ever dealt with. i had to quit my physical therapy because i would start boo-hooing and then my leg would swell till it was huge ! i had my surgery in jan of this year 2022 and i am still trying to walk straight through the pain and fear of falling. you are not alone and i pray you get well soon.
Five months out. Pain at PT unbearable when trying to flex at about 130. Need more for work. Why is pain still so intense. Pain is okay walking but on the bend pain soars. Zingers and night pain still persist.
Sorry to hear this. Are you still in therapy? I recorded a recent video discussing the pain from patellar tendinitis and other inflammatory conditions around the knee.
Some really good info in the video and the comments. Thanks to all. I'm 67 and have serious knee pain due to some of the things I've done in my younger days. As they say, payback is a bitc@. Lol. Anyway, my doctor says knee replacement is the only answer for long term relief but I've been hesitant to get it done because I live alone and can't get my cats to do anything for me. Not sure how I would manage the pain and take care of myself. Guess I'll figure it out eventually.
I have had both knees done by 2 different surgeons AND 2 different knee’s (Attune & Stryker) First remember, the pain & discomfort you will feel will go away unlike the pain you felt prior to surgery. 1- The knee itself does not hurt but the skin/incision will be very sensitive. 2- The worst pain is created by the tourniquet they use on your thigh. It bruises your muscles & can make them not work for a few days. PT can help get them to “fire” again. 3- Nights can be the worst but sleeping with your knee outside the covers and using a pillow between your legs can help. 4- Your surgeon’s technique can eliminate a lot of the potential pain. Everything they do you have to heal from. So one of my surgeons was rough (I have the video of my surgery), the other surgeon (female) was not rough. The recovery was completely different. 5- Don’t start PT the week of your surgery, let your knee recover then start PT week 2. Remember, all of this post op pain is a pain that will go away 👍🏼👍🏼
Had tkr 4 days ago and highest pain level was at 2. So far it's been going very well. Biggest problem is constipation. Had PT yesterday and I am ahead of schedule. Stopped taking oxycodone and now just on Tylenol.
There are probably as many different stories about knee replacement as there are people that have them. I had one replaced last year and am recovering from the other one after about 4 weeks. My doc said they may be very different. So true. My left one was a piece of cake for 10 weeks. No narcotics, just Ibuprofen. Plenty of range of motion. Moved thru therapy very fast. Then the hammer fell. I got adhesions on the tendons. Could not get out of a chair without help from my hands. Had to have the doc go back in and clean it up. The outcome was spectacular. No pain and full range of motion. My right one started out different. More pain, could not go without narcotics. Therapy and range of motion are doing well. At 4 weeks, narcotics twice a day. Hoping to get off the narcotics soon. Fervently hoping for no adhesions this time. GFM
My hip replacement was a breeze I was not prepared for all the additional pain of knee pain after surgery even after seeing my husband having both knees replaced one in Spring other in Fall. My husband a rancher and now climbs 6 ft ladder with 50 lbs feed bag on shoulder and also throws 70 lb hay bails. There is life after surgery. I know it works just hard going through it.
I’m day 15 post surgery after waiting 25 years for a replacement . The worst thing is the knee is giving way when I try to walk and the nerve pain that feels like electric shocks shooting across the top of my knee. I gather that’s normal?
On the Universally adopted pain scale (Australia) and 3 days after surgery (one walking on a frame, one back at home) My knee pain AM is 7, Noonish 7 and night time 7. After 2 other joint replacements, I advise that people get up asap, do small exercises and get the heck out of the hospital system. Each time, I left the hospital rooms full of people with staff trying to get individuals mobile. It's very personal, pain is personal and in the long run, fear can be an ambulatory killer. We need to walk through that fear and pain.
Having my right knee done on March 29th and then June 14th I am hoping for the best. I am in so much pain both knees are bone on bone my Sciatica hurts from my knees and it is hard to walk
Stay on top of the pain. Don't wait until it really hurts. The second week for me was worse. Swollen leg, bruised and tight skin. I was in tears. Keep your leg elevated above your heart. Keep it iced. It helps to have a pillow under you calf when sleeping. At week seven, I can get around with some pain. Do the exercises!! Exercise daily and go to PT at least twice a week for 3 to 4 months.
I’m 8 days out from TKR starting to feel a bit better. Still sore and stiff but I’m trying to get up stairs to sleep in my bed and get out of the recliner.
Hello, When I listen to you, I feel that I am addressing someone who really cares and comfort his patients . Now on the pain scale, I can determine the degree of my pain to the doctor, God bless.
I am on week 5and I still get the stiff pain and I am returning to normal activities slowly with out and Walker or cane still doing my therapy and getting better every day
I am 6 days post surgery. Pain is much worse than I was prepared for. Hard not to get discouraged. My wife took off to help and thank god she did. Nights and early morning are worse. This has to get better. Trying to limit the OXY by using Tylenol but can only take so much. Most of the pain is below the knee but also above the knee. Part of my problem is the temptation to think something more serious is wrong. Patience has never been my strong suit. Thanks for the video and for being a sounding board.
I'm in my 11th week and still need 800mg of ibuprofen and vodka every 5 hours to get the pain to a level where I can walk. Had to use oxycodone until week 6. Still have extreme stiffness after sitting for 20-30 minutes. Mornings require 800mg, cup of coffee, vodka, and 1 1/2 to 2 hours before I can move somewhat normally. My advice is this: unless you can't walk or the joint pain is excruciating, DO NOT GET A KNEE REPLACEMENT!
First two weeks was painful,very little sleep. I used pain killers as needed. Fourth week,still pain,less pain med. I’m on my fifth week now,no meds but sleeping a bit challenging. Pain still there but much less .I would say the first three weeks were the hardest. Thanks
Shoulder is worse, as odd as that sounds. You will be ok. Getting my knee done in July. After having both feet done, I’m grateful I’ll have one leg to stand on. The feet, I tell everyone to suffer through both, because no one will go back for the second. It was awful but just for a few months. The pain was insane, I even a accidentally kicked my foot into a brick fireplace and felt like I was going to die. I’ve had two babies without meds, first with a 15” head circumference, (think Charlie Brown) and the foot pain was way worse. Ps. Wanted pain meds for births but I lived too far from the hospital. Mistake. You will overcome your fear when your other knee pain cuts off all your life activities.
I thought I was really struggling until I seen the comments on here 😱 I’m 5 days in from my first TKR, & yes, I’ve been in excruciating pain the first few days, of course the physio is torture! But when I’m resting, it’s not half as bad as it was & im not too bad during the night now either. Certainly not saying I’m pain free......I cry every physio session 4 times a day! But pushing myself as much as possible. I’m keeping on top of meds & ice, to limit the pain as much as I can. Hang in there guys! We can do this! 🤞😁
I’ve had a knee replacement 5 weeks ago today. Worst pain I’ve ever had and I’ve had a dislocated hip in the past! The first few weeks were pretty bad. I’ve had intense pain in my hip and hamstring, probably because I hadn’t walked properly for several years. Here on week 5 I can go up and down stairs and do some light chores in the garden. Still having trouble getting a decent sleep as hip and knee pain wake me up several times and sometimes just can’t get comfortable to go back to sleep. I’m doing all my exercises and stretching but still have enough swelling to limit bend to about 90 degrees. I hope to get on top of the hip pain soon and increase range of motion. If you are having one done try to do as much preoperative stretching and strengthening first! Good luck!
Day 0 hrs after surgery I was asked to stand up. Pain level 9. Day 1 asked to walk 150 ft pain level 9 walked 15 steps on stairs. Went home on day two started physical therapy at home pain level 6. Keep doing your exercises and do medicine. I went for slow walk with wife. Goal keep moving ice, meds, rest. Elevate leg don’t overdo it rest!
TKR 5 days ago. Cramps at night are the worst. Day 2, when the block wore off, was a steady 6-7 with no let up. Bending the knee during physio is a 7 or 8. Still can't manage 90°. I've got hydrocodone to get me through it. Without that, and ice-packs, life would be unbearable. I feel like i can get off the walker in about a week.
Yes first two weeks were horrible. Exactly the way you explained morning stiffness and late night severe pain. After 2 weeks managed with Tylenol. After that manageable but lot of pain during Physical Therapy. But after 4 weeks I am walking without cane with a limp. Still after 4 weeks I cannot straighten my leg due to tight hamstring.
I was 74 when my left knee was totally replaced because of degenerative arthritis. My pain was truly almost none. I stopped the heavy duty pain pills after four days and relied on Tylinol only except for PT days. I even stopped that after the 2nd week. I reached my PT goals during week 3 but continued until completing 6 weeks. I was blessed by having a great surgeon using the latest techniques and support staff and a high threshold of pain personally. I was walking within an hour of returning to my room and an introductory PT session within 4 hours of return to my room - which I walked to but rode back. I did the prep PT program prescribed and aggressively attacked the PT session. (Like in the Army - "More PT First Sergeant!") It was an excellent experience all in all...great doctor, great hospital and staff and awesome support at home. I tell everyone that my last significant pain was walking into the hospital.
During PT at home, about week 2, when she asked me pain level, I said knee 0 body 15. That was so true. PT can activate everything in the body, but it is so important.
Thanks, Joe, for your input. I'm 74 and am scheduled to have both knees replaced next month. Both knees are bone on bone. The only way I'm able to walk now is by taking prednisone every day. Even then if I go shopping at Walmart for an hour or 2, I'm not able to walk much or do much the next day or two. I hang out with some other widow ladies, and I would love to be able to join them when they go on hikes.
My first 3 weeks were a virtual trip to hell. Had TKR 2 years ago and preparing to do the other knee soon. I should have already done it but my memory hasn't faded at all on what that was like. So I'm limping around telling myself I'm in pain and need to get my second knee done but.... scared. Geez... it was awful.
Thank you so much for this video!! I has helped me put my pain in perspective. I believe you have hit my pain experience exactly the way you have described.
I had my TKR on October 9, 2023. I am at week 5. My pain level is about 4-6 without meds after being on my feet 3 or more hours. It feels fatigued and achy. I finally don't need pain meds for pain at night. I can get by with drinking some sleepy time tea. If I sit for about 15 minutes, the leg gets restless and then I need to stand and walk but I can't do that too long at a time either. I have been without a cane for a couple of weeks. I usually just ice and elevate to help with pain but I will take a very mild pain medication if I am going to be out and about for several hours. Right now there is a mental factor involved in that I want to be pain free now but I know that it will feel much better in another month. I have made great progress and my flexion is already at 125 and extension basically 0. Just need to be patient and think of all the progress that has been made already. I no longer have the pain going up into my hip since surgery. I can sleep good. I can generally get around well, etc.
Tony thanks for your lucid and clear definition of the pain scale. I'm 71 and 26 days ago under went bilateral knee replacement. Yesterday I overdid my phase 2 ( weeks 3 and 4 ) physical therapy. I think I foolishly added 1 exercise of my own which was strapping a light weight to my ankles and doing about 40 repetitions of stepping up two steps. I did this for both legs. Later in the afternoon I had to visit my MD on a previously scheduled checkup. While out we decided to stock up on some groceries. Long story short I over did it. Left knee swollen up and a pain level of about 5/6. Today not game to exercise so just elevating knee above heart and frequently icing. Have you heard of problems like this from your other subscribers?
I have just had one knee replacement after the other one I have had them done one month apart. It is interesting to compare there was different damage with the knees, but they were both basically worn out arthritis too much sport no articular cartilage left no higher line cartilage left . After the first one, I suffered the massive hematoma, which was possibly due to the fact that the knee had not been further than 90° for over 20 years following septic arthritis of the knee and the factor surgeon, manipulated the knee during the operation may have caused that. I made the mistake with the first knee operation of not managing the pain relief which is partly through confusion of so many options that could be taken. Some could be taken in combination with other medicines, and there was on my part a reluctance to just simply try and manage it. . For this reason, I got through the first one for the first two or three weeks, mainly using paracetamol, and I would not advise this for anybody at all. First bit of advice I would give is to understand write down and remember or make a board which tells you when you've taken your medicine what you took how you took it and be very very careful on that. for the second operation this is exactly what I did. I took maximum of everything that I was able to take from the start and the pain relief was much better to manage the second operation prizing the surgeon felt was a little bit more complicated due to the wear and tear of the knee, the fact that so much of it had hardened and his ability to cut the bone etc. you never get full details off the surgeon but he did say to me be very careful how you go with this one, I took that to mean, as much as you can manage with the knee, obviously compression elevation and ice for both knees was a major part of what I was doing all the time, but where is with the first knee I did attempt to do some short works from early on to the second, I just have not been able to, and I've noticed that just getting up on the knee and doing very limited amount of washing and dressing would lead to the knee swelling up so it has been slower from that point of view . due to the experience, I decided to not push the amount of Physio and exercise on the second knee, because experience told me for them from the first knee, the knee will heal overtime, and suddenly it will feel that much easier, and at that point to start to increase the exercise naturally I was still seeing a Physio, and doing exercises with the first knee while the other knee it was difficult to do anything very much at all when does the knee start to feel better? If you managing the pain relief properly as I did in the second one I would say that you can almost judge from week. Two end of two weeks. You will find it easier to sleep positions of the leg in the bed will be easier and then from there, I believe end of week three is when you can comfortably stay on your feet fix a meal or two do the short walk have time up and about . i'm not quite yet there, but at the end of week four for the second week if if it feels like the first knee at the end of week four that's the position to start thinking about the walking cycling little bit of swimming things like that pain won't be totally gone and cam must be taken not to overdo it, but I think that's the sort of timeline . I was somebody that did a lot of sports, but still fit right up until the operation and thought OK a month apart couple of weeks. Be back on my feet start to get fit a bit get ready for the second operation and I must say it's not of the sort as mention in the video. The pain associated with replacement of the knee is quite intense, but it just continues. It continues day after day after day during the night and so it's not something where you see step like recovery. It's very very gradually the recovery takes place. Hope this helps. I really enjoyed the video excuse a few spellings because I've dictated it for speed but if you can make sense of it good luck to you. Good luck to anybody having it done. I'm still living in. Hope that's everybody says it'll change your life. Good luck .
Your pain scale is good. I had day surgery with nerve block and spinal. Went home same day. I went back to work 9 days after. I set at an desk and walk down the hall to the printer. I was exhausted by the end of the day. I am 3 weeks out walking without a cane. Iam going to schedule PT starting tomorrow. I can bend my knee 90 degrees. My leg and ankle was horribly bruised. Anyone else experienced this? My worse pain was my ankle. I cannot get comfortable to sleep at night. I do not sleep well on my back. I am not to the happy I did this point. I need my other knee fixed and Iam so stressed! that I have to go thru this again. Ive also had 2 shoulder replacements . They were no where near as bad. I wish I could sugar coat this for people who needs it done however! I think people needs to know what their getting into. I wish you all a speedy recovery. I suggest an ice circulating machine. Amazon...worth every penny!!
I agree mostly with your overall assessment on post surgery knee pain. My PT's confirmed that it's a more intense recovery than most hips or other joints surgeries. I'm not sure I ever "normalized" after 5 days-I was a 6/7 for many months. Five years later I still seem to have many #2/3 days. I can't figure out how some folks do 2 knees at the same time and survive it !!
Im 4 days away from my surgery, im 64 and watching every video, talking to all my docs. I will bevhaving robotic surgery. Im just worried about the pain i will have to deal with
I only hit 8 on the pain scale my first day after surgery. After that my pain management was very good. I stopped taking medication around the clock after 2 weeks. Now I only take it at night to get better sleep.
Night time is the worst. I’m almost 9 weeks post surgery. The opioids never fully relieved pain and now that I don’t take anymore, I’m up walking pacing around two to three times a night because I cannot get relief from pain. Worried about going back to work next week because I’m so sleep deprived due to pain.
I'm on day 9 recovery full knee replacement. Pain not so bad. Lots of swelling. Ice is my best friend. Hardest part is pain interrupted sleep. A little weepy too. Drives me crazy.
I had mine 7 days ago. It hurts like mad. Then, after PT it hurts like h-e-double-hockey-sticks! Six at best, 10 during PT. I take Norco religiously and use my "ice machine" whenever I'm just sitting still, as well as all night so I can sleep undisturbed until the Norco wears off!
I had my first knee replaced 5/18/22 and the second on 7/28/22. It has been a difficult time. My first knee was doing well at 4 weeks and my pt cancelled my last week of therapy because I had accomplished all the goals. The second knee was more painful and slower to progress. I wasn't able to drive until week 6 with the second knee. At 6 weeks I began doing water workout classes and exercises on my own. I spend about 2 hours in the water 3 times per week. I still have tolerable levels of pain and stiffness but realizing that I've had 13 years of gradually declining mobility I believe it will be a long haul to get where I want to be. I can already do many things I was unable to do before surgery. It's been well worth the time and pain. I have worked and am working very hard to accomplish my goals. It is a must. Those I have talked to that have been unhappy with their new knees simply didn't do the work for the most part.
Question--I never had this before but I suddenly developed restless leg syndrome at night my surgical leg would twitch and jump and shake and I couldn't stop it I had to keep moving and moving. Anyone hear of this after knee replacement surgery?
I like your pain scale. It should be adopted universally.
Thanks but I didn't invent it. It is the Mankoski Pain scale.
Then that should be adopted. Makes it so much clearer than the smiley faces
I had 30 years of no stability and loss of meniscus and we believe it’s the biggest reason why it’s taken so long for me to recover
I had blood pulled out of my knee for three weeks, doctor didn’t understand why, long story short he told me to stop taking the aspirin and it seemed to help
I had a lateral release and that is on top of everything that’s going on, so finally I’m down to 44 cm for diameter of my surgical knee
Seems like I’m going in the right direction after 9 weeks like I’ve said before I’m an x athletic and use to healing quickly but this has been trying as hell
I appreciate people such as Tony talking about this I’m was losing my mind but when I found Tony and Russ from (Russ I’d right) I feel like I’m on the correct path it was a lonely ride but I’m am very great full for your guys because of the COVID times I can’t get out much
Great work you guys! 🍻🍻🍻
I had TKR at 71 yrs old. I had an operation in my teens when all cartilage was removed at that time (1967);.
I was walking bone on bone and had knee spurs. My leg had also bowed out from all the years of walking with no cartilage. Shots no longer helped.
This was the worst pain I ever experienced. I lived with an ice machine 24/7. Physical therapy sometimes brought me to tears but I kept pushing. I did not sleep much first full night of sleep happened at 6 weeks.
I am actively exercising and still doing therapy. Medicare started counting allowed sessions at the NEW YEAR.
I have learned harder exercises since the first 18 visits and feel much more confident in what I can do,
I still have pain but very manageable. I hope I never have to go thru this again on my other bad knee. I would certainly never do two knee surgeries close together. A saw is used to cut your bone and a 3 lb. tamper to fit the stem of the artificial knee into the bone. Then a type of cement is used to keep things together.
Our bodies have to adjust to all this stress and new material.
I was very thankful to find this website and I have purchased the car risers to stretch my calves, which really helps out later in stretching the hamstrings to alleviate pain.
@@pamelashoemaker1614
Keep pushing- it gets better after 3 to 4 months I had 30 yrs of no meniscus and I dealt with that nasty pain and I’m fine now except of stiffness and uncomfortable pain at times but doesn’t get over 3
My knee replacement was extremely brutal. Yes brutal. The pain was at a 10 for 4 straight weeks. I was only on 5mg of pain meds and Tylenol. It was awful. I could barely walk, as my leg was extremely weak. So happy for those that had so much less pain. My doctor had to increase my pain meds because i couldn’t function. It was the hardest situation I have been though. I am now 7 weeks post-op and I am doing so much better.
Seems like your pain meds were not strong enough.
You’ll get there. Minimal exercise just small walk on flat surfaces. Try to get to pushing off the heels when walking. Under do it. Don’t straighten the knee fully when walking - sl bend.
Why was it so intense? Did they have to cut a lot of bone? Did they cut your quad muscle instead of folding it over? I don’t understand why this surgery has to hurt so much. It’s not right! I’m glad you are better!
@@fancyfrancy2244I had my total right knee replacement 4 weeks ago. All I have is time so I read stuff like this and ice and elevate. I am in horrific pain. Yes they did cut the bone. I'm sure they did with this person too. Why are you so shocked? I am miserable 🥺
I had my surgery 10 days ago and found it was easier then ever expected. After the first couple days I asked for pain meds only every 12 hours. I continue to do my therapy exercises everyday. Glad I had this done, even at my age of 81.
man thats crazy to me, my pain was unreal
17days post op. I'm walking without a stick. Knee bending is the only difficulty. I get 90%
I'm 76.delighted I had it done.😊
You were very lucky
@@Smellyfupa I am 11 days and I am curled up in a ball crying
I can relate with that. Take your pain meds and stay ahead of the pain. If it isn’t working have the doctor order a different one. I had to do that. Keep icing it. It does help. Hope you feel better soon.
I am a 68-year-old male. Had robotic TKR two weeks ago. Pain has been nothing more than an annoying ache. Took NORCO for a few days but stopped due to fuzzy head and constipation. Pro Tip: Be sure to have MiraLax available and use it at first sign of constipation. Day three - Switched to Two Alieve and Two Tylenol 12 hours apart. Had about the same pain reduction effect as NORCO without side-effects. Iced and elevated often. Did not push for ROM during swelling.
On walker for two days. Then cane for a few days only. Extension = 5. Flexion = 101.
Now, two weeks out. Taking two Alieve and two Tylenol before bed. Back to general housework and light hiking. Pain is still a 2 or 3 but I just ignore it. I could knock it back more with meds, but feel it is better for me this way. Occasionally, wake up around 3:00 a.m. with some pain, so I just wrap with ice gel pack and go back to sleep.
Overall, this TKR experience has been kinda mild - MUCH less pain and difficulty than expected.
Pro Tip 2: Don’t watch too many videos about the horrors of knee replacement. Just stay in the present and make adjustments to issues in real time. Get off NORCO soon. Don’t let PTs push you hard into ROM when you are still significantly swollen. Muscles will return naturally. Gel ice packs cool the knee for about 15 minutes which is what you need to prevent tissue damage. Avoid ice machines. Eat fresh, healthy food. Stay hydrated. Cut back sugars and alcohol. Sleep whenever you feel like it. Relax. Smile.
Wishing you all the best.
Good advice,thanks! Why would you avoid ice machines?
OK, what is ROM, NORCO, and ice machines?? And, what does 5 mean on extension? For flexion, I guess we want 90 degrees or less? For extension, don't we want 180 degrees? And what in the world is "robotic" TKR?!?!
ROM is range of motion.
This is some good advice. Especially about the pt pushing you when you’re still swollen. My surgeon advised me not to go to pt until 2 weeks after my surgery. I am to do home pt until then. He said the pt can cause more damage that early on by pushing on leg for rom too soon.
I too had robotic surgery, wouldn't have had it any other way tbh.
I had both my knees done about 14 months apart. The turning point on the pain was about week 4 to 5. I'm so glad I had it done. Very close to the knees I was born with.
I've got mine scheduled 4 months apart. Is that crazy? My first one is tomorrow. And I scheduled this one back in Aug. He's booked that far out. I'm starting to wonder if he's crazy booking them this close together but would be nice having a few weeks off in June. Enjoy some sun!
Insomnia hit me hard. Never slept sound the first 7 weeks, even with melatonin and Benadryl. My PA prescribed a sleep aid for me to get my body back on track. The pain I had curbed my appetite, too. In six weeks I lost 20 lbs. I am happy with that part!
Hi Tony, Good Information on your video. I'd just like to pose a question. This is my 2nd knee replacement on the opposite knee. I am using my pain meds as prescribed and trying to stay ahead of my pain. For the most part, it's working well. My problem is that I am still having pain especially with exercise and like you said, it can really come on at night. I am now running low on meds with continued pain and basically am told, no more pain meds- thats it! I am not "seeking" drugs but since when did the "experts" stop believing the patient when they say that they are having genuine pain? A total knee replacement is a BFD! It seems too me that its better to medicate so that one can get through their exercise regimen, rather than not exercise to avoid the pain. I get why some patients don't push themselves. It's because they have a fear of being in pain and not getting appropriate refills.
I'm 80 years of age and had my Knee replacement surgery 7 days aog. My worst day, by far was the Second day (70) when I felt I had hit a bick wall! Now feelingaround 7. Time is the great healer, roll on 12 months
I’ve had a few severe operations one nearly losing arm ,many surgeries and skin grafts and I’m telling you for me having a knee replacement is by far the worse.I’m three months post op and its not good. I do all that’s expected of me , I’ve gone back to work part time but it’s really painful. This op I believe isn’t for everyone. I was in pain before but now I’ve got pain and disability . The physio says legs straight fantastic bend really good, just can’t walk for more then 30 mins then I’m leaning on walls or having to stop and not move . I’m not having my other leg done too barbaric, people who haven’t had one or even surgeons you don’t know what it’s like and everyone’s different so it doesn’t help telling us how to feel. I hope anyone who’s having one soon that it goes well and the pains bearable.
I just found this video and I am in my second week 2 days of a total knee replacement. I have trouble with pain meds( they make me nauseous and I get sick), so the doctor has put me on a medication called Gabapentin. This has been a life saver. I walk for 30 minutes,then row on the rowing machine for 15 minutes, then I do 4 sets of step up step down exercises. The pain is there but very tolerable. Then i ice the knee and I’m good. I love this video. Thank you sir for sharing. I hope I’m on the right track to recovery.
I'm 6 weeks into recovery and my pain is 8 or 9 during therapy. It's been a painful discouraging process. Chin up and power forward.
I'm on day 10 post-op. I feel strong and healthy; anxious to get back to my life. I think the reason being for my positive recovery is due to how well prepared my body, mind and soul was. I've always exercised. I eat extremely healthy, buying and preparing my own meals. I do not smoke, drink, or do any drugs. My attitude is quite positive and first and foremost, I am a devout practicing Catholic. Life is unbelievable!
All very good and great to hear, (except the practicing Catholic has nothing to do with anything)....!!
@user-pp2uh8ji9x I am having TKR one week from today. I agree with you on preparing your body, mind and soul before any procedure. I too am a practicing Roman Catholic and a priest will anoint me before my surgery. Speedy recovery and may God bless you.🙏📿
I had a TKR Oct 18th. It was done outpatient and I was able to discharge within an hour of arriving in the recovery room. My first day was ok because I still had the benefit of having the anesthesia in my knee. I was advised to take short walks 1x an hour on my 2nd day. The pain was a 7-8 especially at night so pretty intense. Day 3 was my first PT session which was only an assessment but the therapist was impressed that I was able to get a 90° bend 3 days after surgery. I was given some exercises to do and went to my post-op appointment right after where I got some x-rays and doctor was happy with my progress. Since then, I have had 3 more PT sessions and I am at 114° bend as of my 3rd visit. I was able to get full rotation on the bike sessions 2 (for 4 minutes and 6 minutes on the 3th visit) Tuesday will be my 4th session so I am hoping to see continued progress. I can't say that I have had "pain" since day 4 and I have been off the prescription pain killers (consistently) since day 2 post op, using Tylenol day 3-8 for break through pain. I will take my prescription meds an hour before my PT sessions but have not needed any other pain meds otherwise. I hope this helps someone.
UPDATE: Due to some overly aggressive PT, I developed tendinitis which took me from a high of 130° back to 114°. I scaled-down the PT and added hot Epsom Salt soaks with some stretching immediately after and now I'm back to 130°. There's still some swelling, but I am confident that I can get a few more degrees in the next 6 months.
I had both done at the same time. I have a high pain tolerance. My pain was the worst pain I've ever had. Even worse than childbirth. Scale of 1-10. It was 20 for the first week.
PIEASE Don't joke. I am planning on getting it done soon.
I am 3 weeks post BLTKR and think you nailed the pain time windows here. Up until 2 weeks post-op my pain levels were between 5-10 with one emergency trip to the ER due to a bout of blinding pain. But then around 2 week mark the intense surgical pain just dropped off over the course of a few days. Today is exactly three weeks post-op and it is the first time since surgery that I can read a book, it’s crazy to think my pain was so great that I was unable to read a book which is my favourite thing to do.
Hi SRP, When did you start PT? How often did you do PT in the first weeks and did you do extra exercise at home? Thx
@@bradje12 I just seen this message. I started PT right away and continued until 7-months post op. Since my BTKR I have had the right knee revised twice which has been much less painful than the original BTKR, but similar time frames, first two weeks are hell, weeks 2-4 are better, and big pain improvements follow with every 2-3 week progression.
@@srpfilms4497 Why did you need to get your knees revised?
Tony, you nailed this. I had a right knee replacement 1/9/20 and the nights were the most difficult for me. My wife, the dogs and I hiked 2.5 hours yesterday and my pain level was zero. To all the people out there that think this is never going to get better and they will never get their life back I am living proof that you can. My knee no longer swells after hard activity and to be honest I very rarely think it about it anymore. I worked hard in therapy, used my ice machine daily and elevated 4 or 5 times per day. Most of my pain started to lessen after 10-12 weeks and I was pain free after 18-20 weeks. My max pain range would be 7-8.
I worked hard at therapy and I did my exercises at home. Once done with therapy I continued to work hard and push myself and my knee started responding positively. If you do not do YOUR PART you will not see optimum results.
Before my surgery my knee was on my mind constantly because of the pain and swelling. Once in a while I will have a little stiffness but overall it feels pretty darn close to my real knee before my football injury in high school many years ago. I have more flexibility than I have had in over 30 years.
This surgery has given me my life back and we can enjoy the outdoors like we did many years ago. Nothing but best wishes for anyone going through this journey and those getting ready to. I wish I would have had it done years ago.
Hi Mike, I was just wondering are you able to run yet and can you ride a bike pretty freely
Rich
@@hertzranks2229 I could run but I do not because of the wear and tear on the joint. I can ride a bike like it was my real knee. No swelling or pain. My wife and I hike for hours without any discomfort.
Hi Mike, was very helpful your comment thank you; I’m a little worried about pain medication, what works better for you? I have got my surgery March 5, I would like to find something good for my pain. Thanks!!🙌🏼
@@mariareza2206 Hello. I took Tramadol and Tylenol. The pain was manageable most of the time. Make sure to keep it iced and elevated and it will make a huge difference. Please buy some stool softeners and take them on a regular basis. The pain meds can cause issues.
Thanks for the info. I'm getting mine in 2 weeks. I'm petrified. I'm only 46 but the pain and swelling in my knee is nearly unbearable so a tkr is needed.
Is riding a bike going to make it wear out quicker? I have pre assessment on Thursday so I'll ask them as well. Wish I wasn't so nervous.
Had my left TKR done on 4/7/23,i got there abou,it10:40 AM i was sorta nervous Had a great Dr.he had already done 3 TKR's i was his fourth, every one is telling you stuff saying hes a great Dr. and then you just wake up and its over,i Just saw the Dr. 1time after the surgery, i asked him how di it go? he said 1 word PERFECT. Then he was on to something else.so now the fun part begins, i herd the 3rd & 4th day are the worst, for pain every is different, the therpist gave me 3 excrises to do for the first few days just to do what i can and dont worry about getting it perfect and take my MEDs had my 1st crap 1 hr ago 7 :30 AM had to drink 2 cap fulls in 10 oz of water, of the poop power not to bad= felt Good. TOO , it is what it is though im 63 next guy comes on monday, Yippie HI Yo KI YEA RB
I’ll tell you Tony…. It was pain beyond what I was able to imagine… I’ve had 5 babies… and you are right… that first 2 weeks was pretty significant pain… caused me to burst out crying several times because I didn’t feel I could cope…without meds….Im not sure what I would have done. After the first 2 weeks (week 2 was slightly better than week 1, but still excruciating) things got a wee bit better each day…. Thank goodness!!! For me… it’s been a slow heal… bend is slow also…. Am at 3 months and only bending at 90… but still improving slowly. Am seeing Dr tomorrow and may need MUA…. Hoping not 💗🙏Thank you for all you share on your channel 😊🙏💕
8 weeks post op here. Still very bad at night. Tolerable during the day. Reached120 degrees of flexion last week. I’m rooting for you.
I have had total knee replacement. I can say unequivocally that total knee replacement is absolutely the most painful surgery you can be subjected to. In addition you must be subject to massive doses of oxy drugs. Then you must suffer through narcotic withdrawal.
I had both knees replaced on November 3rd. The worst pain that l have ever felt in my life. Days and nights were hell. It took about five days for me to stand with a walker. I was in rehab for two weeks, terrible pain. Now after six months l am able to do things that l was not able to do in years. No pain, totally worth the suffering.
Hi Bill, Can you give some tips on what helped the most through the pain? PT, medication, exercise, cold packs...
Thx
I gather that Bill doesn’t know how to check for replies to his comments, which is a shame because I wanted to validate his pain and recovery experience - and thank him for sharing it. 🙁
Everyone’s experience will be different, and while the guidelines and benchmarks are certainly solid goals to shoot for, each has to go at their own pace.
I am terrified thinking that next week I'm going for knee replacement, but watching these videos listening to testimony of different people I gain strength and courage.
I know it is painful but better to do it once and be pain free.
I'll come share my story when I'm done.
Big thank to all of those who shared their experiences. ❤️
How did you go?
Mt sentiments exactly! I am terrified! M about to see the surgeon.
Good luck to you🙏
Please give us an idea as to how your surgery went, Sizwe. I am having a TKR next week and am pretty apprehensive but am looking forward to having a knee that doesn't hurt all the time.
I’m 47 and TKR in Two weeks and nervous shit
I went in at 8AM was sitting in a restaurant at 3:30! Recovery was a bit longer 10 weeks! Rent the chair it really helps,and do yourPT. 6-8 months for full mobility! I was 75 at the time!
Rent what “chair”??
Today is 2 wks. Pain is 10 because I tried stopping pain meds 3 days ago. Going to take pain med right now. I also feel I’ll, week and can’t concentrate on anything.
Sorry to hear that. Talk to your surgical team if you have questions about pain meds. Best wishes.
My surgery was 6 months ago. I was so afraid of getting constipated that I never took narcotics. I utilized ice, elevating, And stuck to my P. T. Exercises like my life depended on it. If I had any discomfort in the night, I threw off the blankets, did 30 front leg lifts, 30 side leg lifts, pain resolved, went back to sleep. During the day, I discovered that "motion is lotion" was actually true. Resisting the urge to curl up with a blanky and cry, movement (in the right way) was the best therapy of all.
I'm a 65 yr. old female, having labored and birthed enough times to know that listening to and working with pain is always better than trying to get out of it by any means. And often that means getting all the education on the subject you can find. Not as abundant as you would think. That was the most painful part of all, alone, afraid, confused ,....
Then I found Tony's channel and it made all the difference. Frankly, I'm confused as to why I have a surgeon and 3 physical therapists, and yet I found the best help on some you tube channel.
I should probably tell my surgeon that maybe his best follow up treatment plan could be to simply refer and direct his post op folks to Tony's channel. Then this whole TKR reality wouldn't be such a nightmare!!!
Well said! The only analogy that I’m thinking is that it is like parachuting into a desert with a broken wing and expecting to develop survivalist skills on the ground. There should be more emphasis on finding the right pt person before surgery who has a particular interest in knee rehab and sensitivity to the individual’s aptitude and ability and willingness to progress. I let myself be casual and picked the spot closest to my home. Can you imagine doing that with your surgeon? Closest thing in my life to an abusive relationship both physically with 9 out of 10 pain and shaming...you are not giving it all up to me by trying hard enough. That’s changed but it was so counterproductive in first month.
My experience was similar to several posters. I did the exercises as prescribed and as frequently as tolerated. Kept moving every hour or two-sitting for long hours on couch is not helpful! Stay on top of the pain with meds as needed. I am ~4 months on L TKR and ~6months on R TKR and I am out boating in the San Juan Islands in WA state...some discomfort & stiffness, especially in the morning...but very manageable! My mobility is amazingly better! At home, working out at gym, riding bike, walking, strength training. Sure beats the chronic, worsening pain I have experienced for several years prior to TKRs. I had a great PT and he told me about Tony’s TKR group & RUclips channel-incredibly helpful! I watched all the videos just about daily.
Brenda I can relate I went thru the same thing keep pushing
@@enoughtimetug I have scheduled my knee replacements for 2 weeks apart, do you think that is too soon? I am in very good physical shape . And have the time and support for it at this time .
@@megchambers8799 If your surgeon approves, go for it!! People have them done at the same time frequently now. Have a pain management plan and the best PT lined up. You should be fine. The newer “minimally invasive” techniques are improving the recovery rapidly.
I'm early on in my journey (6 days post-op). I take my Oxycodone prior to my PT session and use my ice machine for an hour after PT (My first official PT session isn't for 2 days but I'm doing simple exercises I found online- ankle pumps, heel slides to increase ROM, leg straightening, and prop the ankle up and allow my knee to hang down (to me the worst). My max pain generally is a 3, maybe a 4. Sleeping is good (I take an OXY just before bedtime). Getting up at night for the bathroom is the hardest, those first dozen steps or so. After that, pretty good. I walk down the hall to limber the leg up. I can walk short distances (to the bathroom and kitchen from the living room) without an aid. It will be interesting to see how I am after M\onday's formal PT. Best thing so far is how quickly I was able to walk "normally" (normal gait and light pressure on the walker handles standing upright). Worst thing is how these opiods mess with my system (aka #2) but I take a Dulcolax each day and that helps a lot.
Ditto on the pain scale. It should be universal. I had a TKR 12 weeks ago having lived with arthritic knee pain 24/7 for 15 years. Immediately, post surgery, that pain was completely gone. I had a number of new pains however, as a result of the surgery. I did the prescribed exercises, no more, no less (Important). And, I did notice a daily improvement each day, for the first 6 weeks. Staples were remover after 10 days. 14 days later, the dressing was removed and stitches were dissolved. The surface wound was healed, but inner healing takes longer. For the first 6 weeks, I noticed a daily improvement, I noticed a weekly improvement thereafter. After 4 weeks my knee was better than it had been for a decade and a half. Three months on, the knee is slightly warm to the touch, so, still healing inwardly. But I can now walk! My wife said to a friend, "It's like dating a new man. The other night, he asked me if I wanted to go for a walk. I can't remember when he said that to me last"! Still applying the ice pack to reduce the swelling. I can see how it takes 12 months for a full recovery, As for pain, it quickly reduces to discomfort and id nothing like the persistent pain I lived with for 15 years. Shane Guerin was my surgeon and I would recommend. OI hope this helps.
I remember an Orthopedic surgeon stated that the first 3 months your knee owns you. I would say that is absolutely true. I am an experienced TKR patient now into my 4th week of recovery from second TKR. I tell everybody that to just expect me bitchin' about everything TKR for 3 months then I will start being a reasonable person again. LOL
I had a thought the other day, that I actually like my more stable knee. Getting more control by leaving hospital has increased that love affair!
I firmly believe that the first three months life is all about the knee for sure!
Thank you for sharing that; I’m in Week 8, and I’m pretty sure people are completely sick of hearing about my knee… Good to know it’s normal…
I to am an experienced TKA (2019) , at 6 weeks my fluctuation was at 130 no need for pain meds , so I can not agree your knee owns you for 3 months/ 12 weeks although my surgeon says I’m in the top 1% for recovery .
Now I’m days away from a 2nd TKA , I do expect the same or better results.
Just had dbl replacement 7 weeks ago.when I first woke up no one had to tell me what I had done,the first 2 nights were rough but not unbearable and every day is a little bit better...I dont regret it a bit
I’m a 60 year old teacher. I received my first knee replacement last November (2020)and currently I am getting ready for my second knee replacement. I don’t like pain, but overall the pain was tolerable. My husband was awesome, but I had a good friend stay with me for the first four days. She helped me with my exercises and my medication. My suggestion is to do your exercises religiously because it’s going to help you later on. Also, take your medication around the clock. This will help with your exercises! You will weed off your meds later on. Don’t worry about becoming addicted! If you skip on your medication now, you will increase your pain; therefor you won’t want to do your exercises! Exercising is extremely important:-)
Thank you each and everyone of you everything you said help me. my knee replacement surgery is next Tuesday, tomorrow is Friday I’ll do what you did. I’ll put my days and Waze on here for the next person.
I had TKR 5wks ago. Almost no pain first 3wks but surgeon did not want PT for 2wks. I had excessive thigh/knee swelling so when I started PT they only did stim pads. Surgeon was unhappy as knee not bending well so I asked another therapist to help attain goals, then the torture started. Sharp pain inside tibial area, tendonitis of IT band on left side. Max bend after 5wks finally 90 degrees today using TERT therapy. I thought I was pain tolerant- I ride horses and thighs are tight. This has been excruciating. I started going to gym on alternate days to use recumbent bike and Elliptical but now think I may not giving time to recover. Also use red light therapy. Ended up with a DVT after 3wks. Thank you for your videos and one on allowing recovery time. I accidentally clicked thumbs down on that video but you have helped me as well as hearing others having tough time too. Surgeon was threatening to reansthetize me to bend knee after 3wks. I refused! Now Im glad I trusted myself to allow my body time to heal! Thank you, Tony!
Left knee was replaced January 28th, right knee was replaced May 14. I have a very low tolerance to pain and thought it was excruciating with the 1st knee. I never gave up, did all therapy and worked out 3x a day. 3 1/2 months later I could really see improvement just in time for 2nd knee. Now 4 months in on 2nd knee and am walking at a good pace every day. Left knee has loosened up a lot. I feel by January 2021 should be back to normal. NEVER GIVE UP. IT TAKES TIME AND A WANT TO!
Thanks. I'm going on 10 weeks with my left and will do right in about 5 weeks. So about 3 months apart. I didn't know that I would still be stiff at 10 weeks. Now the doc and PTs are saying it could take a year to come to some normalcy. I have been disappointed in this. But like you, doing my exercises and still doing PT. Getting a little better every day. But not looking forward to going through with it again on the other knee!
@@gosman949 i agree. I had no idea how time-consuming a), the physio would be and b), the pain. It's not that i was seeing the physio more than x2 a week but i was doing all the exercises every 15 mins in order to unstiffen/loosen up. At 10 weeks, i really stuffen up still. Just did a long car journey for 1st time today and had to stop to loosen up twice! I am so grateful tho. No looking back to the swelling from dodgy ligaments, old patella damage x2 and the severest arthritis at aged 55. My knee is going to be great.
The pain scale is beyond my worst imagination. Every day I try to bend my knee towards 90 degrees it inflicts an extreme level of pain. Update: It is now 8 weeks since my surgery, two weeks since an MUA. I am able to bend the knee to 120 degrees with help from a pull strap or from PT person. The dull thud pain behind the kneecap has been joined by an electric shock pain that runs down the side of the leg between two points where the surgeon attached something or cut away something. That pain feels like a cattle prod was attached, it's impossible to sleep thru it and OXY doesn't help. What does seem to help is the combo of Pure Magnesium Oil and ICY HOT with Lidocaine. Think long and hard about alternatives because my experience with doctors and PT people is they are often cheerleaders urging you to proceed and "deal with the pain". They don't get paid unless you sign up for this. Fortunately, I don't have to go to a job every day because that's impossible.
I had TKR 2 weeks ago and I can say everything you say is right on. The first three days were pretty terrible, even though on the pain scale I would have to rate it at about a 7. Now, I am down to 1.5 doses of hydrocodone a day, and the pain is probably goes from 2-6 throughout the day. My experience of night time pain is the opposite of what you describe. It feels best at night. Perhaps because I have one of those ice machines, and I have an adjustable bed so I can elevate my leg above my heart. Morning is the worst. The most important take away is that the pain is not constant. It will vary throughout the day, so at worst you may have short bursts of extreme pain.
Rose, please let me know what brand ice machine you bought and from where. Amazon lists so many but I want something that really works because this is too important to buy a dud.
I just had my second knee replacement yesterday. I am in excruciating pain right now. So bad that I’m shaking. I am fighting to keep my blood pressure up. Every time I stand up it drops. With the first one the bottom number was 36. Today with the second knee the bottom number is 46. They can’t do too many pain meds because of the blood pressure. This is horrible. I’m glad there are only two knees.
Just had my second. Thank you. I'm in so much pain.
Had total left knee replacement on March 22, 2023. Don't mean to be redundant but be sure to do your home exercises regularly and also attend physical therapy and work as directed. If you can do home exercises like quad strengthening before surgery it would be a big help in healing. The first two weeks were painful but lessening of pain proceeded regularly after that. I needed help with toileting for the first few weeks but managed once I was able to better flex my knee. Make sure you do regular knee extension work. It will really pay off whenever you begin walking without assistance equipment. Just keep in mind, you will feel much better by 3 -4 months.
I am at day 17. The pain was the worst for the first week or so. My base was about a 4, going up to a 5 or 6 when pain meds were due. I am now taking pain meds every 6 hours and keeping the pain level at a 3 or 4 when moving around. I think your assessment is correct. The first two weeks are the worst. After that, it is do-able with incremental improvement every day. I never regretted having the procedure done. I needed it! Only time will tell if it is worth it, needing 6 months to a year to properly judge. Rehab is slow and can be frustrating. Managing my own expectations are the hardest. I ask myself every day "Am I doing/feeling better today than I felt yesterday?" So far the answer has been yes. Keep up the good work with the videos! I appreciate the support for my journey!
I am also now on day 17, just starting to try to put some full weight on in still walk with one crutch...hope this gets better, or I too will be questioning myself as to why I did it.
Explaining pain levels in this way has really helped me out. At least now I know I am progressing as I should. I am 4 weeks today and am experiencing most of the things you have mentioned, super stiff in the mornings but gets better as I start my exercise routine.
At 51 y/o I had my TKR done on 5/16/22 and to date I’ve completed my PT 3 weeks ago. And I’m feeling extremely elated with my progress. I’m almost back to 100%. Now for me day 3 was my worst by far on the pain scale. But it gradually wavered over the course of 3 weeks. I would suggest doing the pre surgery PT. As I did 6 weeks worth prior to my surgery date which helped tremendously. And did 17 weeks afterwards. Be sure to search out the best orthopedic surgeon you have available to you in your area. I wish that my wife pushed me to get it done sooner as my quality of life is back to what it used to be. I’m now walking 5 miles twice a week and while it’s sore afterwards I feel so much stronger now than in prior years. So if you’re thinking of getting a TKR don’t wait just do it you’ll be happy you did trust me. Don’t wait 7 years like me to get it done. Good luck to anyone thinking of having it done. You’ll do just fine.
I had my TKR January 2020 and for the first two weeks I didn't. Are if I woke up or not. I got better pain meds at week 2 when the staples came out. We won't talk about how the pain in rehab was...
I’ve had 2 knee replacements, one in 2015 and the other in 2017 and even though I had quite a lot of pain, the worse part was having the staples removed. I’m now mainly pain free even though I’ve started having the odd twinges now. But I can now walk for miles. Glad I had it done. I was in my 50’s when I had them done.
Bilateral knee replacement. 72 years old at the time. Now 82 and doing great. Had rotator cuff surgery 25 years ago. Also doing great. About rehab. I would rather have my knees done again than my shoulder.
I had both knees done at the same time on 8/26/22. You nailed the pain scale.
I would say the toughest period is the first 8-10 days, gradually getting better from there. I had many moments where pain jumped to an 8, maybe even 9 at times. This Friday will be 3 weeks from surgery date and my pain levels have dropped dramatically. I’m so happy I had this done. The reason I did both was it only made sense for me to go through the pain, the therapy, the time, etc only once. It was tougher than I thought it would be but I feel better already and see light at the end of the tunnel. The following are a couple things I’d like to mention. In the surgery prep they place tourniquets on your upper thighs to restrict blood flow during surgery. This causes pretty severe bruising with a lot of pain for about 80-85% of the people getting it done. The other issue I had was the sciatica pain caused from the tourniquets being used. This flared up my sciatica nerve and caused additional pain throughout the first couple weeks. I told my surgeon about it and he immediately put me on prednisone and I felt some relief pretty quick. This was a blessing. I’m mentioning this stuff to help you discuss with your surgeon prior to surgery and hopefully this will help alleviate some possible discomfort. Once I had the Sciatica pain under control it was so much better to deal with the pain from the surgery. The Tourniquet pain and sciatica pain is just as hard to deal with as the surgery itself. The key to remember here is no two surgeries are identical and everybody’s experience will be different. Best of luck to everyone.
I just had my right knee replaced and I was in intense pain for two days I was in the hospital. My pain was back pain sciatica pain that here at the VA hospital they seemed I’ll equipped to handle that pain. Once I got out of the hospital and home I started getting relief with a good chair to sit in and a bed that allowed sleep. I started massaging that bulging disk and pain level was all from my knee then. I’m still just beginning this journey but I’m already glad I did it because I can tell I have a knee that is useful again. Now to get over the weakness and pain and it’ll be a journey worth taking.
Huge help...am seriously considering doing both simul...Thanks
I'm so glad you mentioned this because I have problems with my Sciatica nerve and was worried this may be a problem for me. This is good to know. Thank you!
Nailed? What's that supposed to mean? If you mean "he explained," it accurately, then that would be better, understandable English.
I am week three post knee surgery and had Mako robotic. I had some pain daily early on but finishing Nerve pain med and narcotic so just on Tylenol and Cekebrex. Could not tolerate Mavik. I have pain in lower leg fue to bruising and swelling decreasing. Using compressed stockings and machine at night but the compression machine is painful but trying to to use stockings and pain meds for it. Stay tuned.
Love it when people who have never experienced the pain they are trying to explain to those who are the ones who have to actually deal with the PAIN and all the side effects of the pain medication.
You are right! I can never experience the pain you feel. That is why I appreciate anyone who is willing to share their experience.
I’m considering the replacement surgery this year, but scared to death of being rendered helpless for a few months and having to deal with pain 24 seven. Sometimes I think I should just suck it up and deal with that knee pain I have.
@@jondstewart
I have waited too many years and watched my lifestyle dwindle to sitting.
I'm tired of that so, surgery.
I want to ride a bike again.
Don't suffer because in just gets worse in time .
Good luck!
@@357CLOUDY thanks for the heads up! I didn’t have any real knee pain until my 40’s, but by 50, it was annoying! I work as a chef and been an avid skier for the past 10-12 years. Now 53 and can’t stand for long without it hurting. If I drink tons of water and eat a lot of leafy greens, it’s reduced, but I still limp.
@@jondstewart get it done, there's no other solution, what's worse to go through, temporary post surgical pain and rehabilitation to being pain free or not having the surgery and having pain(it gets worse over time) for the rest of your life and needing some sort of aid to get around, wheelchair, walker, cane, crutches, Mobil scooter,,,,, get the surgery brother
I have had 2 and 1 repair and it hurts like a biotch. 30 days of severe pain and 90 days total pain. The first 30 are really bad
I had a total knee replacement 1 month and 2wks ago. I can honestly say this was the worst pain I've ever had. I'm thankful that I'm doing so much better now I'm still having mild pain but not nearly as I was
I'm walking and driving I still can't bend it like I use to my physical therapist say that's normal and I want really be able to bend it like I did before. The pain does get better any they say about 6months from now I will be in a much better stage in my recovery 😊
Totally agree with you. Six weeks ago had TKR. Pain was excruciating for 10 days and started to subside.
Am now into PT, walking well a n d driving.
I’ll keep my smashed knees, I was told by my own doctor it was the most brutal surgery. 😢😢😢
Tony, thank you. I had the Mako total knee replacement on 05/31/23. At 76 years old with osteoarthritis, my pain tolerance was extremely low. The oxycodone and oxycodone ER didn't' seem to touch the pain for at least 3 weeks, and at almost 6 weeks post-surgery, I've still not had more than 2 hours of continuous sleep during the night. PT is very difficult. My body's response to the drugs made it more difficult to concentrate. Yet I'm now seeing the light at the end of the tunnel. The muscles, tendons, ligament, or whatever that was cut to get into the knee still scream a bit, and amazingly, the bone itself, where the pieces went in, also hurt, but it's gradually subsiding. I write this for the sake of those who literally have a very low pain tolerance. Keep doing whatever you can, and keep bugging your surgeon, PA, PT, nurse navigator, or whoever, because they're your greatest professional help. Mine were definitely shocked at a my low pain tolerance, but are working with me. Will I have the other knee done? Right now I'd say a definite no, but looking at the videos and reading these other reactions tells me that perhaps, down the line, I might.
This is reality. Everyone who says “oh it wasn’t that bad” is lying or didn’t have it done
the surgery was barbaric 2 days later getting better. till PT. whoa. not enough pain meds
Thanks for a great video. Was having difficulty with the pain scale and you nailed it. My surgery was six weeks ago on 4/13/21 and the first week was tough. Had surgery on a Tuesday, home on Wednesday and up the steps to our bedroom on Friday after PT. Hit the eight scale several times but going into the second week I was at a four level and had a great PT. I liked your pain scale mentioning that it was hard to breathe being an eight. At week five I started walking and am walking about 2 miles a day with no pain. The morning after I am a little stiff with minimum pain but have reached the level of walking without thinking about it. If needed I would have the other knee done without thought and a lot sooner.
Mine was Excruciating & a brutal recovery.
I had my left knee done in March 2021 and my right knee done in June 2021. My experience…This is a very painful healing journey. I had intense pain for the first 5 weeks and the opioids didn’t give me much relief. Nights have been very difficult. Everyday I told myself tomorrow will be better but to be honest the first 5 weeks it wasn’t. I started feeling some relief at week 6 but nights did not improve until 8 weeks. I am on week 9 of my second surgery and 5 months from my first and both knees still hurt and are stiff every morning. I have faithfully done my exercises 2 times a day and actually over did my activity more than once and had to take a week off. I have found more is not better and because I have a high pain tolerance I have pushed myself to hard at times. It is a balancing art to push just the right amount to bring healing and not harm. I love my New knees and I would do it again but be warned it hurts for a long time.
Thank you for sharing this. I am 13 days post op for LTKR. My pain is intense, at least a 6. I take Hydrocodone and Aleve. The meds give me some relief but when they wear off the pain returns as bad as ever. I do my exercises as I should. Guess I expect too much too soon. I thought the pain would lessen by now but after reading your post I can see I am being unrealistic. Again, it is helpful to hear the experience others have had. Thanks again.
Thanks,
Most applicable comments for me yet. Just passed week three and expected a gradual incline towards getting progressively pain free, my journey has been more of an up down, good/bad,
day/ night. Having encouraging patient coaches is key. Don’t over do it, sometimes standing for longer periods is over doing it! Started icing less, PT said SOME inflammation and warmth this late is essential for healing.
Your assessment of a TKR is 100% correct! I had my left in 8/2014 and my right in 8/2015. I can’t even imagine what you went through having them so close together…🤕 isn’t something that I could have done…looking back. There is NO WAY! I had open heart surgery back in ‘95 - from a PFO ostium secundum and I thought that was the worst surgery that I would ever go through. Well, the LTKR was pretty close to to my heart surgery. The pain at times was unbearable. To make matters worse, I was getting ready to go out with mom and I moved the wrong way to put on my sock. The pain I felt was excruciating…I had never felt anything that bad before…it was shooting up my whole left quad. It has never been pain free…but the right knee a year later, it was a piece of cake! It’s too bad that I had the major stroke in ‘94 (misdiagnosed heart defect- heart surgery post stroke, seizures x12 years = 2 brain surgeries) so I get tired easily and have to rest my noggin. All things considered, I would do it again, just like you would. However, if things in my life had been different, I wish I could prepare myself for the surgeries differently. I just forget and the next thing I know, they are here. C’est la vie.
Lot of thanks for your valuable comments, which may help me.
It sure does!!!!😅
I had my knee replacement December 14 2020 I’m now into my 6 week post op and still experiencing pain. I have seen my Surgeon a week ago, and she told me my ex ray looks good and that everything seems to be going well. So why still pain. I’m still sleeping in my recliner chair. (The most comfortable:)) Love your videos
Thanks Rhonda! Lots of patients continue to experience pain. The challenge with pain is there are so many contributing factors. How is your range of motion and swelling? Are you able to walk much? 6 weeks is usually a turning point toward improvement.
@@totaltherapysolutions yes I can walk without Cane or walker. That’s exactly what my surgeon said... When you get to 6 weeks you will take a turn for the better:)
Btw my range motion is only 110 at 6 weeks?
I feel your pain. Had my second last week. The pain is intense .
Thank you for a frank appraisal of what to expect - I had a TKR 6 years ago and have recently had a hip replacement on the same side (right) the hip replacement was much easier. I really like how you say you want to hear from people who have had the operation because you have never had one. There are too many people on RUclips who give advice very easily who have absolutely no idea of the pain after a TKR. Thank you.
It’s extremely painful. Don’t let anyone kid you. I had some complications and was in hospital 10 days but 1-10 it hurts and sucks. But a year later it’s worth it. How did I manage the pain? IV morphine and OxyContin. That’s how. It was extremely painful and I have had 11 arthroscopic surgeries so I am not unfamiliar with knee pain.
Sorry to hear this but thanks for sharing your experience.
What you have said is exactly 💯 I have had both knees done & I'm in week 2. What I experienced now is no where near what agonizing pain I was going thru before the surgery. I'm glad I done the surgery.
Hi Paulette, thanks for the comment and sharing your experience.
After my first TKA, the first 3 days were no fun. After 3 days it got really better and I could walk around and function. (with a walker) . 2 weeks our of surgery, I threw the walker away and had a cane for support if I needed it. Now then, 10 weeks out of my first one. My second one will happen in 4 days, not a fan of going through this again, but my experience will help.
That's great to hear. Thanks for sharing. Good luck on your second one.
Had my left knee replaced in June 2021. Pain was not as bad as I feared , maybe a 7 at worst but I was able to keep on top of it with narcotics in the first 3 weeks and lots of ice packs. Previously, narcotics have given me terrible constipation but the lower dosage wasn’t a problem. 12 weeks later I’m walking 3 miles a day and playing golf.
Glad I had it done.
You give me hope the the pain during and after therapy is killing me also the swelling has made it very hard to move it around I’m icing,elevating and my exercises even through tears I’m two weeks in thanks for sharing
I had mine done almost six years ago. worst thing I ever did.
For pain comparrison. I had my face smashed in on a construction job. Knee replacement worse.
I got crushed with 5000lbs of steel on a different construction job, knee is worse.
Used to race motorcycles got run over in the first turn by twenty motorcycles, Knee worse.
It was almost eight weeks before I could sleep because of the pain.
My doctor gave me five pain pills then told me to take Tylenol.
Today still hurts.
I cried all day everyday from extreme depression after my surgery because of the anesthesia. I cried fir 40 days straight. The pain was horrible snd lack of sleep very difficult to deal with. I managed my physical therapy okay but dreaded nights. Now seven months in I am doing pretty well .
I hear you I cried for the first 4 weeks and every day because of a bleeding ulcer most pain meds I couldn’t take and Oxy made me hallucinate.
Tylenol with Codeine was all I could take and it helped very little. I do PT 3 times a week if it wasn’t for the physical therapists I don’t know how I would have made it. I just turned 75. Will I have the other knee ? When hell freezes over!!!
bless your heart honey . i am in that same boat. my operation on my left knee is the worst pain i have ever dealt with. i had to quit my physical therapy because i would start boo-hooing and then my leg would swell till it was huge ! i had my surgery in jan of this year 2022 and i am still trying to walk straight through the pain and fear of falling. you are not alone and i pray you get well soon.
Five months out. Pain at PT unbearable when trying to flex at about 130. Need more for work. Why is pain still so intense. Pain is okay walking but on the bend pain soars. Zingers and night pain still persist.
Sorry to hear this. Are you still in therapy? I recorded a recent video discussing the pain from patellar tendinitis and other inflammatory conditions around the knee.
Some really good info in the video and the comments. Thanks to all. I'm 67 and have serious knee pain due to some of the things I've done in my younger days. As they say, payback is a bitc@. Lol. Anyway, my doctor says knee replacement is the only answer for long term relief but I've been hesitant to get it done because I live alone and can't get my cats to do anything for me. Not sure how I would manage the pain and take care of myself. Guess I'll figure it out eventually.
I have had both knees done by 2 different surgeons AND 2 different knee’s (Attune & Stryker)
First remember, the pain & discomfort you will feel will go away unlike the pain you felt prior to surgery.
1- The knee itself does not hurt but the skin/incision will be very sensitive.
2- The worst pain is created by the tourniquet they use on your thigh. It bruises your muscles & can make them not work for a few days. PT can help get them to “fire” again.
3- Nights can be the worst but sleeping with your knee outside the covers and using a pillow between your legs can help.
4- Your surgeon’s technique can eliminate a lot of the potential pain. Everything they do you have to heal from. So one of my surgeons was rough (I have the video of my surgery), the other surgeon (female) was not rough. The recovery was completely different.
5- Don’t start PT the week of your surgery, let your knee recover then start PT week 2.
Remember, all of this post op pain is a pain that will go away 👍🏼👍🏼
Had tkr 4 days ago and highest pain level was at 2. So far it's been going very well. Biggest problem is constipation. Had PT yesterday and I am ahead of schedule. Stopped taking oxycodone and now just on Tylenol.
There are probably as many different stories about knee replacement as there are people that have them.
I had one replaced last year and am recovering from the other one after about 4 weeks.
My doc said they may be very different. So true.
My left one was a piece of cake for 10 weeks. No narcotics, just Ibuprofen. Plenty of range of motion. Moved thru therapy very fast.
Then the hammer fell.
I got adhesions on the tendons. Could not get out of a chair without help from my hands. Had to have the doc go back in and clean it up. The outcome was spectacular. No pain and full range of motion.
My right one started out different. More pain, could not go without narcotics. Therapy and range of motion are doing well. At 4 weeks, narcotics twice a day. Hoping to get off the narcotics soon.
Fervently hoping for no adhesions this time.
GFM
My hip replacement was a breeze I was not prepared for all the additional pain of knee pain after surgery even after seeing my husband having both knees replaced one in Spring other in Fall. My husband a rancher and now climbs 6 ft ladder with 50 lbs feed bag on shoulder and also throws 70 lb hay bails. There is life after surgery. I know it works just hard going through it.
I’m day 15 post surgery after waiting 25 years for a replacement . The worst thing is the knee is giving way when I try to walk and the nerve pain that feels like electric shocks shooting across the top of my knee. I gather that’s normal?
Yep, the zingers are pretty common.
On the Universally adopted pain scale (Australia) and 3 days after surgery (one walking on a frame, one back at home) My knee pain AM is 7, Noonish 7 and night time 7. After 2 other joint replacements, I advise that people get up asap, do small exercises and get the heck out of the hospital system. Each time, I left the hospital rooms full of people with staff trying to get individuals mobile. It's very personal, pain is personal and in the long run, fear can be an ambulatory killer. We need to walk through that fear and pain.
Having my right knee done on March 29th and then June 14th I am hoping for the best. I am in so much pain both knees are bone on bone my Sciatica hurts from my knees and it is hard to walk
Wow! It is great that you are watching videos and doing your research.
Stay on top of the pain. Don't wait until it really hurts. The second week for me was worse. Swollen leg, bruised and tight skin. I was in tears. Keep your leg elevated above your heart. Keep it iced. It helps to have a pillow under you calf when sleeping. At week seven, I can get around with some pain. Do the exercises!! Exercise daily and go to PT at least twice a week for 3 to 4 months.
I’m 8 days out from TKR starting to feel a bit better. Still sore and stiff but I’m trying to get up stairs to sleep in my bed and get out of the recliner.
Good to hear. You will hopefully continue to feel better, stronger, and more energetic over the next couple weeks.
Hello, When I listen to you, I feel that I am addressing someone who really cares and comfort his patients . Now on the pain scale, I can determine the degree of my pain to the doctor, God bless.
He does have a reassuring voice.
I am on week 5and I still get the stiff pain and I am returning to normal activities slowly with out and Walker or cane still doing my therapy and getting better every day
Progress is all that matters. Good for you. Thanks for sharing.
I am 6 days post surgery. Pain is much worse than I was prepared for. Hard not to get discouraged. My wife took off to help and thank god she did. Nights and early morning are worse. This has to get better. Trying to limit the OXY by using Tylenol but can only take so much. Most of the pain is below the knee but also above the knee. Part of my problem is the temptation to think something more serious is wrong. Patience has never been my strong suit. Thanks for the video and for being a sounding board.
Thanks for sharing.
I'm in my 11th week and still need 800mg of ibuprofen and vodka every 5 hours to get the pain to a level where I can walk. Had to use oxycodone until week 6. Still have extreme stiffness after sitting for 20-30 minutes. Mornings require 800mg, cup of coffee, vodka, and 1 1/2 to 2 hours before I can move somewhat normally. My advice is this: unless you can't walk or the joint pain is excruciating, DO NOT GET A KNEE REPLACEMENT!
First two weeks was painful,very little sleep. I used pain killers as needed. Fourth week,still pain,less pain med. I’m on my fifth week now,no meds but sleeping a bit challenging. Pain still there but much less .I would say the first three weeks were the hardest. Thanks
This is the most pain I ever experienced in my life. Today is Day 8.
The knee replacement is the most painful of all operation. To scared to have the other one done
Shoulder is worse, as odd as that sounds. You will be ok. Getting my knee done in July. After having both feet done, I’m grateful I’ll have one leg to stand on. The feet, I tell everyone to suffer through both, because no one will go back for the second. It was awful but just for a few months. The pain was insane, I even a accidentally kicked my foot into a brick fireplace and felt like I was going to die. I’ve had two babies without meds, first with a 15” head circumference, (think Charlie Brown) and the foot pain was way worse. Ps. Wanted pain meds for births but I lived too far from the hospital. Mistake. You will overcome your fear when your other knee pain cuts off all your life activities.
Thanks for your insight. I am going for my total knee replcement surgery. It's a big heads up. Thanks A Million.
I thought I was really struggling until I seen the comments on here 😱
I’m 5 days in from my first TKR, & yes, I’ve been in excruciating pain the first few days, of course the physio is torture! But when I’m resting, it’s not half as bad as it was & im not too bad during the night now either.
Certainly not saying I’m pain free......I cry every physio session 4 times a day! But pushing myself as much as possible. I’m keeping on top of meds & ice, to limit the pain as much as I can.
Hang in there guys! We can do this! 🤞😁
I’ve had a knee replacement 5 weeks ago today. Worst pain I’ve ever had and I’ve had a dislocated hip in the past! The first few weeks were pretty bad. I’ve had intense pain in my hip and hamstring, probably because I hadn’t walked properly for several years. Here on week 5 I can go up and down stairs and do some light chores in the garden. Still having trouble getting a decent sleep as hip and knee pain wake me up several times and sometimes just can’t get comfortable to go back to sleep. I’m doing all my exercises and stretching but still have enough swelling to limit bend to about 90 degrees. I hope to get on top of the hip pain soon and increase range of motion. If you are having one done try to do as much preoperative stretching and strengthening first!
Good luck!
Day 0 hrs after surgery I was asked to stand up. Pain level 9. Day 1 asked to walk 150 ft pain level 9 walked 15 steps on stairs. Went home on day two started physical therapy at home pain level 6. Keep doing your exercises and do medicine. I went for slow walk with wife. Goal keep moving ice, meds, rest. Elevate leg don’t overdo it rest!
TKR 5 days ago. Cramps at night are the worst. Day 2, when the block wore off, was a steady 6-7 with no let up. Bending the knee during physio is a 7 or 8. Still can't manage 90°.
I've got hydrocodone to get me through it. Without that, and ice-packs, life would be unbearable.
I feel like i can get off the walker in about a week.
I agree totally that days 4-7 first is pain city. The drugs from surgery have worn off and it’s time/pain management come into play.
There is a light at the end of the tunnel.
Even taking dilaudid ,every 4hrs.,I was in extreme agony for3 to 4weeks.took about 2months before I was sort of comfortable.
First week was tough. After that, continuous improvement. Now 16 weeks, PT X 2 a week, full range of motion, no pain. Way better than before surgery.
It’s about 15 years since I had knee replacement o my left knee. I still have pain every day bearable with using Tylenol
Yes first two weeks were horrible. Exactly the way you explained morning stiffness and late night severe pain. After 2 weeks managed with Tylenol. After that manageable but lot of pain during Physical Therapy. But after 4 weeks I am walking without cane with a limp. Still after 4 weeks I cannot straighten my leg due to tight hamstring.
I was 74 when my left knee was totally replaced because of degenerative arthritis. My pain was truly almost none. I stopped the heavy duty pain pills after four days and relied on Tylinol only except for PT days. I even stopped that after the 2nd week. I reached my PT goals during week 3 but continued until completing 6 weeks. I was blessed by having a great surgeon using the latest techniques and support staff and a high threshold of pain personally. I was walking within an hour of returning to my room and an introductory PT session within 4 hours of return to my room - which I walked to but rode back. I did the prep PT program prescribed and aggressively attacked the PT session. (Like in the Army - "More PT First Sergeant!")
It was an excellent experience all in all...great doctor, great hospital and staff and awesome support at home. I tell everyone that my last significant pain was walking into the hospital.
1 lop
During PT at home, about week 2, when she asked me pain level, I said knee 0 body 15. That was so true. PT can activate everything in the body, but it is so important.
Thanks, Joe, for your input. I'm 74 and am scheduled to have both knees replaced next month. Both knees are bone on bone. The only way I'm able to walk now is by taking prednisone every day. Even then if I go shopping at Walmart for an hour or 2, I'm not able to walk much or do much the next day or two. I hang out with some other widow ladies, and I would love to be able to join them when they go on hikes.
My first 3 weeks were a virtual trip to hell. Had TKR 2 years ago and preparing to do the other knee soon. I should have already done it but my memory hasn't faded at all on what that was like. So I'm limping around telling myself I'm in pain and need to get my second knee done but.... scared. Geez... it was awful.
Thank you so much for this video!! I has helped me put my pain in perspective. I believe you have hit my pain experience exactly the way you have described.
I had my TKR on October 9, 2023. I am at week 5. My pain level is about 4-6 without meds after being on my feet 3 or more hours. It feels fatigued and achy. I finally don't need pain meds for pain at night. I can get by with drinking some sleepy time tea. If I sit for about 15 minutes, the leg gets restless and then I need to stand and walk but I can't do that too long at a time either. I have been without a cane for a couple of weeks. I usually just ice and elevate to help with pain but I will take a very mild pain medication if I am going to be out and about for several hours. Right now there is a mental factor involved in that I want to be pain free now but I know that it will feel much better in another month. I have made great progress and my flexion is already at 125 and extension basically 0. Just need to be patient and think of all the progress that has been made already. I no longer have the pain going up into my hip since surgery. I can sleep good. I can generally get around well, etc.
Tony thanks for your lucid and clear definition of the pain scale. I'm 71 and 26 days ago under went bilateral knee replacement. Yesterday I overdid my phase 2 ( weeks 3 and 4 ) physical therapy. I think I foolishly added 1 exercise of my own which was strapping a light weight to my ankles and doing about 40 repetitions of stepping up two steps. I did this for both legs. Later in the afternoon I had to visit my MD on a previously scheduled checkup. While out we decided to stock up on some groceries. Long story short I over did it. Left knee swollen up and a pain level of about 5/6. Today not game to exercise so just elevating knee above heart and frequently icing. Have you heard of problems like this from your other subscribers?
Oh no! Sorry to hear that. Hopefully if you overdid it you should be back to baseline by now or tomorrow.
I have just had one knee replacement after the other one I have had them done one month apart. It is interesting to compare there was different damage with the knees, but they were both basically worn out arthritis too much sport no articular cartilage left no higher line cartilage left .
After the first one, I suffered the massive hematoma, which was possibly due to the fact that the knee had not been further than 90° for over 20 years following septic arthritis of the knee and the factor surgeon, manipulated the knee during the operation may have caused that. I made the mistake with the first knee operation of not managing the pain relief which is partly through confusion of so many options that could be taken. Some could be taken in combination with other medicines, and there was on my part a reluctance to just simply try and manage it. . For this reason, I got through the first one for the first two or three weeks, mainly using paracetamol, and I would not advise this for anybody at all. First bit of advice I would give is to understand write down and remember or make a board which tells you when you've taken your medicine what you took how you took it and be very very careful on that. for the second operation this is exactly what I did. I took maximum of everything that I was able to take from the start and the pain relief was much better to manage the second operation prizing the surgeon felt was a little bit more complicated due to the wear and tear of the knee, the fact that so much of it had hardened and his ability to cut the bone etc. you never get full details off the surgeon but he did say to me be very careful how you go with this one, I took that to mean, as much as you can manage with the knee, obviously compression elevation and ice for both knees was a major part of what I was doing all the time, but where is with the first knee I did attempt to do some short works from early on to the second, I just have not been able to, and I've noticed that just getting up on the knee and doing very limited amount of washing and dressing would lead to the knee swelling up so it has been slower from that point of view . due to the experience, I decided to not push the amount of Physio and exercise on the second knee, because experience told me for them from the first knee, the knee will heal overtime, and suddenly it will feel that much easier, and at that point to start to increase the exercise naturally I was still seeing a Physio, and doing exercises with the first knee while the other knee it was difficult to do anything very much at all
when does the knee start to feel better? If you managing the pain relief properly as I did in the second one I would say that you can almost judge from week. Two end of two weeks. You will find it easier to sleep positions of the leg in the bed will be easier and then from there, I believe end of week three is when you can comfortably stay on your feet fix a meal or two do the short walk have time up and about . i'm not quite yet there, but at the end of week four for the second week if if it feels like the first knee at the end of week four that's the position to start thinking about the walking cycling little bit of swimming things like that pain won't be totally gone and cam must be taken not to overdo it, but I think that's the sort of timeline .
I was somebody that did a lot of sports, but still fit right up until the operation and thought OK a month apart couple of weeks. Be back on my feet start to get fit a bit get ready for the second operation and I must say it's not of the sort as mention in the video. The pain associated with replacement of the knee is quite intense, but it just continues. It continues day after day after day during the night and so it's not something where you see step like recovery. It's very very gradually the recovery takes place. Hope this helps. I really enjoyed the video excuse a few spellings because I've dictated it for speed but if you can make sense of it good luck to you. Good luck to anybody having it done. I'm still living in. Hope that's everybody says it'll change your life. Good luck .
The total exhaustion exacerbates the pain. Your broadcast is very close to beyon point, especially from someone who hasn’t had TKR. Thank you
Thank you! I agree, the sleep deprivation makes everything so much worse. I wish you the best.
Your pain scale is good. I had day surgery with nerve block and spinal. Went home same day.
I went back to work 9 days after. I set at an desk and walk down the hall to the printer. I was exhausted by the end of the day. I am 3 weeks out walking without a cane. Iam going to schedule PT starting tomorrow. I can bend my knee 90 degrees. My leg and ankle was horribly bruised. Anyone else experienced this? My worse pain was my ankle. I cannot get comfortable to sleep at night. I do not sleep well on my back. I am not to the happy I did this point. I need my other knee fixed and Iam so stressed! that I have to go thru this again. Ive also had 2 shoulder replacements . They were no where near as bad. I wish I could sugar coat this for people who needs it done however! I think people needs to know what their getting into. I wish you all a speedy recovery. I suggest an ice circulating machine. Amazon...worth every penny!!
I agree mostly with your overall assessment on post surgery knee pain. My PT's confirmed that it's a more intense recovery than most hips or other joints surgeries. I'm not sure I ever "normalized" after 5 days-I was a 6/7 for many months. Five years later I still seem to have many #2/3 days. I can't figure out how some folks do 2 knees at the same time and survive it !!
I had bilateral on 8-5 2021. It's hard to not feel sorry for yourself. The therapy wears me out.
Im 4 days away from my surgery, im 64 and watching every video, talking to all my docs. I will bevhaving robotic surgery. Im just worried about the pain i will have to deal with
I only hit 8 on the pain scale my first day after surgery. After that my pain management was very good. I stopped taking medication around the clock after 2 weeks. Now I only take it at night to get better sleep.
Thanks for sharing your experience. Sleep is important and must be protected.
Night time is the worst. I’m almost 9 weeks post surgery. The opioids never fully relieved pain and now that I don’t take anymore, I’m up walking pacing around two to three times a night because I cannot get relief from pain. Worried about going back to work next week because I’m so sleep deprived due to pain.
I'm on day 9 recovery full knee replacement. Pain not so bad. Lots of swelling. Ice is my best friend. Hardest part is pain interrupted sleep. A little weepy too. Drives me crazy.
How are you feeling? I just had my surgery on Wednesday. All that I do is cry and scream. 😢
I had mine 7 days ago. It hurts like mad. Then, after PT it hurts like h-e-double-hockey-sticks! Six at best, 10 during PT. I take Norco religiously and use my "ice machine" whenever I'm just sitting still, as well as all night so I can sleep undisturbed until the Norco wears off!
Hi Lance, thanks for sharing. 7 days is usually a second peak in pain. After 10 you should be seeing some big improvements.
@@totaltherapysolutions - You shouldn’t comment AT ALL unless you have actually had the surgery. You think you know pain - you know nothing.
I had my first knee replaced 5/18/22 and the second on 7/28/22. It has been a difficult time. My first knee was doing well at 4 weeks and my pt cancelled my last week of therapy because I had accomplished all the goals. The second knee was more painful and slower to progress. I wasn't able to drive until week 6 with the second knee. At 6 weeks I began doing water workout classes and exercises on my own. I spend about 2 hours in the water 3 times per week. I still have tolerable levels of pain and stiffness but realizing that I've had 13 years of gradually declining mobility I believe it will be a long haul to get where I want to be. I can already do many things I was unable to do before surgery. It's been well worth the time and pain. I have worked and am working very hard to accomplish my goals. It is a must. Those I have talked to that have been unhappy with their new knees simply didn't do the work for the most part.
Thank you for sharing your story & your encouraging words.
Question--I never had this before but I suddenly developed restless leg syndrome at night my surgical leg would twitch and jump and shake and I couldn't stop it I had to keep moving and moving. Anyone hear of this after knee replacement surgery?