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Seeking Tips/ Ideas/Suggestions from all who have had both knees replaced (TKR)

Posted , 5 users are following.

cheryl90571
cheryl90571

I had my first knee done June 26th and my second done a little over 2 weeks ago.

I am 64 and in good health. Both surgeries went well without complications.

I begin physical therapy for my second knee this Friday.

I am trying to make this process of recovery and getting back to a normal life as smooth and efficient as possible, and I know that those of you who have HAD both knees replaced can be my best teachers.

What things did you find helped you the most to get back to normal after experiencing the replacement of both knees?

What things should I be cautious about?

Are there any surprises you ran into that were more challenging than expected?

Thanks SO much for taking the time to reflect and to help me!

1 like, 19 replies

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  • peg57
    peg57 cheryl90571

    Posted

    I am SO going to follow this. Looks like 2nd TKR will be 3 months after the 1st. Anything to get me thru the hell zone faster will be appreciated.
    • cheryl90571
      cheryl90571 peg57

      Posted

      I didn't know much about what to expect with # 1. I pretty much just took each day as it came. I kept a journal which has been nice to have since I had #2 recently and can compare one knee with the other.

      My second knee was a very different experience. Same doctor, same hospital, but stayed one less day in the hospital, could walk down the hall and back the day after surgery, and had my nerve block for one less day. With the second knee I had no nausea, had a good appetite several hours after surgery, and could move my SURGICAL leg quite a bit even in the recovery room.

      My first knee felt like a tree trunk filled with CEMENT for several days. My mobility was poor. I also was a bit LOOPY due to the Percocet.

      Each experience can be very different. I think you have to accept each day as it comes, do your best and know that tomorrow is another day.

      I am anxious to be able to resume my walking that I so loved doing. The last four years I have not been able to enjoy walking due to severe pain.

      Very much looking forward to spring and summer and enjoying things I missed!

      You will do fine! Be patient with yourself.

      I am thankful for those in this forum! There is a great deal of knowledge and experience here!

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