Depression and frustration are setting in for me.

I was so similar to what you're describing Judith after my first TKR, so I can really relate.  Coupled with probably not given a lot of info before your TKR the worry takes off all on its own.  Don't be too concerned about the pain meds - take one if you feel you need to.

Please don't regret the surgery, it's a long process and really you are quite new in the process.  Don't worry, it will improve. When you get your life back I can promise you it will be much better than it was before.  I had one probably pretty much when you did and I'm focussing on doing the things I haven't been able to do for nearly 40 years - like dance classes, long distance walks and I get super excited about being able to do that soon.  So try and focus on what you want to achieve in your life too and it will take away from the thought of the surgery.

Please let us know how you are going.

Hi Judith, I'm just over 12 weeks and beleive me the difference in the way I feel now to the way I felt at 81/2 weeks is amazing. You sound like your doing the right things and you will feel better soon you may still get stiffness but that's normal

and it can take a year to feel normal again. I'm sure you will be fine for your trip in October you will find you get better every week. I'm going in my first trip in October as well. Take care.

Hang in there Judith! You are only 8 1/2 weeks post-op....it can take 6mths to a year for full recovery. Some people are lucky and are better sooner. I'm 8mths post. I have occasional pain on the inner part of my knee, but most times I am fine. I know that this time last year, I was in excruciating pain, and had to wear a brace to walk. You will get there. Keep doing your exercises, it will come!!

This is Judith....going into 11 weeks next Tuesday.  I am finally beginning to feel better and actually have had 2 nights in a row of fairly good sleep...only up 3 times!

Im back into my water aerobics class and can tell you all that this has helped so very much!   This forum has been a life saver for me and I just wanted to thank you all for your information, time and thoughfullness in your replies.  My ham strings are still very tight, but I'm working on them.  My knee still feels like it's stuffed with cotton balls but each week it improves a bit.  For those of you reading this for the first time...take your pain pills and have tons of patience!