18 months after TKR and now sudden pain??
Posted , 4 users are following.
I had a TKR last December on my right knee. I did have one setback the following April but I think it was due to overexertion after attending a conference. I know the left knee is ready, but was wanting to hold off until October if possible.
NOW.....my right knee is giving me fits! Pain got bad enough I had to use a cane for a few days, and its still not much better after two weeks. Back on low dose pain meds. Dr. says could be because I am favoring my left knee, but it just seems more than that to me. Has anyone else experienced this? Also, he wants to give me Zilretta injection in left knee to prolong the surgery. Anyone have experience with that? I'm desperate for advice?!?!
0 likes, 2 replies
CHICO_MARX vickie15389
Posted
A TKR usually requires one year for a full recovery. After the really bad pain is gone, we have to rebuild all the supporting musculature (quads, glutes, core, hip flexors, etc.)...and that takes time...and you're only 8 months out. Until those muscles are ready to take up the load again, all that pressure remains on the knee and, if you push it too far, you can certainly feel that pain again. Ice, elevate, etc... If that doesn't work in 2-3 days, see your doc. An injection in the TKR knee doesn't work since it's all metal and plastic now. Try some Voltaren Gel (RX in the US, generic diclofenac elsewhere, check for interactions...)...it's the best topical anti-inflammatory out there.
We have all experienced pain all over, and in unexpected places because of a TKR...
Other Pain
This is sooooo normal. I even got sciatica because of the subconscious weight shift. The faster you strengthen the TKR side, the less likely you will experience other pain.
For your good knee, you climb "The Ladder of Care". Topicals (like Voltaren), then a steroid injection, then Synvisc or similar injected gel. Next, there's an FDA-approved procedure called COOLIEF that is specifically meant for osteoarthritic joints. Could last up to 2 years...and then you can do it again, putting off the other TKR until a time of your choosing (but not too long...gotta be strong enough for the rehab). Google the COOLIEF website and find a certified doc in your area. Some people absolutely swear by it. Last stop is TKRVille...
I'm almost 3 1/2 years post-TKR and the other knee is totally painless. When (not "if") it starts acting up, I'll follow the same path until the TKR is my only option left.
j68551 vickie15389
Posted
Low dose pain medication My case. TKR primary Stockholm, Sweden 2014. Chronic TKR infection 2015-2018.
Sep 2018 Two-stage TKR revision, hopefully last operation. New implant, same brand DuPuy Sigma. Operation in Bangkok where I am a resident.
So far so good. PT last year until Feb 2019. Now I am walking sans crutches (short distances) driving and back working as motoring editor. Swimming every day 10 laps minimum and 10 laps "pool-walking"
Pain Medication. Almost every morning half a capsule TRAMADOL i.e. 25 mg with tea or strong coffee NO SUGAR!
Pain Control! Low back pain due to bad posture. Dodgy knee during three decades. Since the revision my TKR leg is shorter than my normal leg. Therefore is standing and walking PAINFUL. Not the Revision TKR knee but my back and my left knee.
I will gradually reduce my TRAMADOL medication from half a capsule 25 mg to 12,5 mg
By the way. l am 69 and I've had enough pain! Enough orthopedic operations ever since my ski accident in my youth when my knee joint was damaged,
Finally, I am am also controlling my weight. I am not obese but slightly overweight. Protruding tummy. All TKR patients. LOOSE WEIGHT!
My advice! Maybe a " dry month". This month July. No alcohol, No wine dinners, No cold Cerveza with snacks Sun afternoon.
Hard calorie control and exercise. Sparkling mineral water YES!
Wine or Beer with food, dinners will also increase the "running to the toilet in the night" or fumbling with bedpan or urinal bottle. Better sleep! No headaches, more energy. Unfortunately, more appetite, too.
Best regards,
"Bangkok-Johnny"