8 weeks post op and dull back ache!
Posted , 9 users are following.
Hi I'm 8 weeks post op of TKR and doing well although my back is really aching and I have that stiffness behind the knee. I'm managing about 4 hours sleep before waking up, usually because I've moved to a position that my knee doesn't like. It is getting easier and I can now walk without a stick mostly. Why is my back such a problem? Is it because I've been lopsided for so long I wonder? If so, what should I do to strengthen my back? Thanks all! I love this forum it's so helpful. X
0 likes, 23 replies
chris00938 elaine94716
Posted
Elaine, do you have an upright exercise bike? If you have, then I'd suggest using it without holding on the bars (but don't fall off!). You tend to use your core muscles more then but it's not too challenging. My leg length is longer than it was (over 2 cm) on the operated knee because it was bowing out quite badly before the op and is now straight, so I'm thinking that might be causing mild backache at times. It all affects the hip and spine, doesn't it.
elaine94716 chris00938
Posted
I haven't but can use one st my gym where I use the pool. Core is probably shot to bits. X
chris00938 elaine94716
Posted
I was using two sticks at one time because of knees and core muscles really suffered, so gradually I cut down to one stick and then none and just struggled to walk at all instead, but I did start using the upright bike as I said and that did make a difference. But as Marilyn said, stretching is relevant too - I sometimes feel a tight feeling in upper thigh and back and hadn't thought about stretching!:-)))
chris00938
Posted
Eizie elaine94716
Posted
I started experiencing low back pain after I started walking more. I think it was because I was still walking "funny", that is, not walking correctly because of either pain or stiffness in my knees. I told my PT and she had me look at myself walking in a mirror and helped me correct my walk.
elaine94716 Eizie
Posted
Thanks elize I do think you're right I am walking funny so annoying but makes sense.
Guest elaine94716
Posted
Good luck
:D
elaine94716 Guest
Posted
Guest elaine94716
Posted
Let me know if it helps! Just dont rush through it. 10sec or 2 min. You'll find you actually can take a deep breath. I didnt realize how tight my whole body was and the shallow breathing i was doing from all the pain.
:D
marilyn10235 elaine94716
Posted
Hi Elaine
The only way is up!
You are on the home strait. The back is because your gait has, once again, changed. It will take a while for you to even up. If you want to kick start that maybe see a Chiropractor who will make sure your hips are even & do any adjustments to keep your spine in alignment.
I saw my Chiropractor today, complaining of a bad shoulder & she told me that as I was now hobbling on the OTHER leg my spine was slightly out of alignment, which also caused problems with my shoulder! Who'd a thunk it!!
Anyway as I said you are getting there.
Well done you & worry not.
Marilyn
XX
chris00938 marilyn10235
Posted
Talking of that Marilyn, has anyone else noticed their operated leg is longer than it was? I'd got a curvature of the spine because the arthritis had bowed and shortened the leg that's just been done, and was told to raise my shoes on that side by 2cm gradually but as quickly as was feasible. Now, that leg is longer than the other leg. So wearing both shoes at the same level but not doing anything with the raised ones until the other leg is done because who knows how they'll end up LOL!
marilyn10235 chris00938
Posted
Hi Chris
Yes I have noticed the right leg is longer, only slightly, as it was shorter before I think ... bonus.
Maybe when I get the other one done I'll be taller!!! At 5ft 3 I could do with a little more height!! Lol never thought of TKR as a way of boosting height lol
Marilyn
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elaine94716 marilyn10235
Posted
Yes I might take a trip back to see my physio. Gait has changed, and also being in that twisted position climbing stairs as only going up and down like a toddler! Can't e doing me much good. I truly had forgotten what a blooming awful journey this is. I do seem to remember a back ache when I had the other one done two years ago, but had forgotten eveyrthing'
chris00938 marilyn10235
Posted
LOL! It's when all our long trousers become crops that we worry LOL!
bak7833 chris00938
Posted
marilyn10235 bak7833
Posted
Marilyn
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ali95530 marilyn10235
Posted
Lol and who cares ... we've been to hell and back so we can do as we please 😂
bak7833 ali95530
Posted
Eizie bak7833
Posted
marilyn10235 chris00938
Posted
Hi Chris
Oh I wish it were that simple. Lol 😆
Marilyn
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ali95530 bak7833
Posted
I've had four children and I'd rather have had four more 😂
marilyn10235 bak7833
Posted
Yep, childbirth is over & done with once baby is delivered! I had 3 with gas & air for the last (that was strange though, the g&a!!)
What trojans we all are for going through this!
Take care
Marilyn
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chris00938 bak7833
Posted
Only just got these through because of connection problems but tears of laughter now. I haven't actually gone out (but have answered the door!) with one leg rolled up LOL!